This qualitative study investigated the lived experiences of past and present African American women leaders in community colleges in the United States. The purpose of this research study is to understand common barriers and challenges faced, and strategies used for achieving and sustaining leadership as "Black" and a "woman". The participants were chosen purposefully because their ethnicity, gender, and current professional position qualified them to provide useful insights into the phenomenon of interest. A total of 15 past and present African American women leaders with at least five years of experience in community colleges and three or more years with the titles of director or higher participated. The research study found parallels in challenges previously established in the literature, as well as advice for the future generation of African American women leaders, using a phenomenological approach with semi-structured interview questions. Learning from past and present African American women community college leaders will encourage other African American women to not only strive to be a leader in a community college but also to achieve and excel in a leadership role. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]