The purpose of this study was to develop a real-world understanding of both the challenges and achievements of Black women leaders--in their own words and from their unique perspectives as individuals and as a particular demographic based on race and gender. Sharing stories of past experiences, studying and analyzing those stories, and making meaning of them can provide a compelling picture of the identities and development of Black women as academic leaders. From addressing their past and present experiences to envisioning possibilities for the future, I designed this study to demonstrate how the personal and professional experiences of Black women in higher education have led them to the leadership positions they held at the time of this study, while also highlighting the ways in which they overcame intersectional challenges related to their race and gender identities. This study was guided by three research questions, which informed the data collection and analysis process: (1) What barriers limit or prevent Black women from obtaining leadership roles in higher education? (2) How do mentorship experiences help support the attainment of leadership positions for Black women in higher education? (3) How do Black women overcome obstacles or barriers to obtain leadership positions in higher education? To gain a comprehensive understanding of their professional experiences, I selected participants holding various executive leadership roles in higher education such as administrative directors, regional directors, and deans. The insights shared by these Black women leaders during a series of interviews shed light not only on their accomplishments but also provide insights that can make the career journeys of other aspiring Black women leaders more equitable. Finally, I include recommendations for future research, and I end with my final reflections about the study experience and its impact upon me as a doctoral researcher, as an individual, and as an advocate for Black women leaders in higher education. [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.]