Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository

Thesis Format

Monograph

Degree

Master of Arts

Program

Education

Supervisor

Gardiner, Rita A.

Abstract

This study investigates the career progression of Latina immigrant women to achieve leadership positions in higher education. The purpose of this research is to examine, from an intersectional perspective, the career progression of Latina immigrant women in educational leadership roles in higher education in Southwestern Ontario. The central point of this research is the study of the lived experiences of Latina women navigating the obstacles of being immigrants and women attaining educational leadership positions. The intersectional perspective, via the lens of Latina feminist theory, serves as both a conceptual framework and a theoretical approach. Considering the methodological approach, this study adopts a qualitative narrative methodology and semi-structured interviews of selected participants as my method. This study gives voice to its participants and seeks solutions for higher education institutions to build more fair environments supporting immigrant women's leadership development.

Summary for Lay Audience

This study investigates the career progression of Latina immigrant women to achieve leadership positions in higher education. The purpose of this research is to examine the career progression of Latina immigrant women in educational leadership positions in higher education in southwestern Ontario. The focus of this research is the study of the lived experiences of Latina women navigating the obstacles of being immigrants and women reaching positions of educational leadership. The intersectional perspective analyzes social identities not in isolation but as a set of identities that can represent barriers or privileges. This study also approaches Latina women's leadership through the lens of Latina feminist theory. Six Latina immigrant women in educational leadership roles were interviewed and shared how their social identities as women, immigrants, Latinas, and mothers impact their career progression. This study gives its participants a voice and seeks solutions for higher education institutions to build fairer environments that support the development of immigrant women's leadership. This study makes recommendations brought by participants in their interviews, such as the creation or construction of a space for Latinos at the university for connections and exchange of experiences and opportunities; the adoption of a Family-Friendly policy that suits the needs of academic mothers; and expanding the equity, diversity, and inclusion policies that are essential to opportunities for Latinos and other racialized groups. An educational system that values equity and diversity is critical to Latina immigrant women's access to leadership.

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