The purpose of this study was to examine, understand, and interpret the lived experiences of four African American male university presidents. Through phenomenological interviewing (Seidman, 2006), and grounded in critical race methodology (Peoples, 2020), the participants detailed their lived experiences through their respective journeys in senior level positions in higher education including the university presidency. The analysis of data resulted in a number of themes, revealing their collective counter-narrative through depicting how these African American males acknowledged, interpreted, embraced, challenged, and extended traditional leadership theory (e.g., Fathers as Inspiration and Motivation, White Female Teachers as Inspiration and Motivation, White Male Mentors as Guides, Transformational Leadership: Opposing the Status Quo, and Emotional Intelligence Other People's Emotions). In addition, their experiences illuminated the omnipresent nature of "other" in understanding the plight of African American males on route to the university presidency. The findings from this study speak to a path forward, promoting successful leadership approaches and providing a guide for aspiring African American males who may view these findings as a practical pathway to obtaining senior level positions in higher education including the university presidency. [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.]