New Publication Spotlighting Female Leadership Journeys
The IAUP recently announced the release of its publication, “Spotlighting Female Leadership – Strategies, Stories, Perspectives,” which highlights the leadership experiences of ten exceptional female presidents, chancellors, and rectors from diverse higher education institutions within the IAUP network. These narratives provide a comprehensive look into the unique challenges faced by women leaders in academia, offering invaluable insights and inspiration through their journeys.
The publication is part of the IAUP Women’s Initiative and was compiled and edited by Dr. Devorah Lieberman, President Emerita of the University of LaVerne and IAUP Executive Committee member. Her dedication and expertise were instrumental in bringing these stories to light.
Authors who contributed inspiring and thought-provoking chapters include:
- Sue Cunningham – President and CEO, Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (USA)
- Silvia Giorguli – President, El Colegio de México (Mexico)
- Carmen Lamagna – Former Vice Chancellor and President, American International University, Bangladesh (Bangladesh)
- Eun-joo Lee – President, Seoul Cyber University (South Korea)
- Devorah Lieberman – President Emerita, University of La Verne (USA)
- María Vicenta Mestre – President, Universitat de València (Spain)
- Gülsün Sağlamer – President Emeritus, Istanbul Technical University (Turkey)
- Elizabeth Stroble – Chancellor, Webster University (USA)
- Jamienne S. Studley – President and Chief Executive Officer, WASC Senior College & University Commission (USA)
- Inga Žalėnienė – President, Mykolas Romeris University (Lithuania)
Each of these leaders provided valuable insights into their institutions, tenures, career trajectories, gender dynamics, and successful strategies, offering advice for both current and aspiring female leaders.
The publication reveals common themes and patterns in the paths to leadership, despite the varied sizes, ages, locations, and focuses of the institutions, such as: being the first female institutional leader, proving oneself, dedication to a higher purpose, the importance of a mentor or coach, essential attributes needed, navigating external perceptions, imposter syndrome, and the importance of listening carefully.
