This article showcases the lessons we learned from developing and facilitating a doctoral-level course on the topic and praxis of positionality in the field of education studies. We contend that positionality is integral to critical consciousness building and leadership development among doctoral students and other higher education leaders.

High-quality professional learning can support in-service leaders' effectiveness by developing the skills, knowledge, and competencies necessary for addressing their full range of leadership responsibilities. however, recent data show that leaders' access to professional learning varies across states and communities and that leaders in…

We present a framework for understanding the relationship between individual differences in leaders' motivations and their engagement in leader development, and we empirically test that framework across three different operationalizations of engagement, demonstrating that the motivation to develop as a leader (MTDL) is distinct from other…

Despite ongoing efforts to recruit and support successful school leaders, relatively little is understood about the professional experiences and skillsets that principals possess upon entry into their positions. We trace the professional experiences and instructional effectiveness of all educators in Oregon over 14 years. We highlight that many…

The article summarizes a conversation with early career scholars who utilize the LID theory and model in their scholarship and practice. Authors offer thoughts as to which aspects of leader and leadership identity development remain most useful to leadership education and development, as well as ways this body of scholarship might also be…

This hermeneutic phenomenological research project involved nonprofit board members' insights into their leadership role in dealing with children with rare illnesses. The organization studied was a charitable 501(3)(C) nonprofit foundation in Indiana and utilized interviews with 13 nonprofit board members to gain information attained from these…

In 2023, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) launched "Leading for Democracy" to prepare higher education leaders to create the conditions for democracy to thrive--on campus, in communities, and across the nation. This project seeks to support leaders develop and foster a civic-minded campus; design…

Effective school-level leaders impact student achievement. McREL's analysis of research found that effective leadership is not about leader personality or style; rather, it's about a set of 21 specific actions and behaviors that are significantly associated with higher levels of student achievement. This report translates the 21 actions into a…

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the decision-making of executives in higher education institutions with an emphasis on information technology (IT) issues. The study explored decision-making through the lens of Descriptive Decision Theory. The three research questions guiding this study were: (1) How do executive skills…

This article explores the intersection of mentorship as it concerns the leadership experiences and development of Black men and women in senior leadership in higher education.

Case studies serve as powerful tools because they bridge theory and practice, enhance decision-making skills, and prepare individuals for real-world challenges. There is a shortage of case study resources specifically focused on the ongoing development of leaders for positions in higher education. "Sticky Cases in Higher Education…

The job of the school principal has become much more complex and demanding over the past several decades. Many university-based principal preparation programs--which prepare the majority of school principals--have struggled with how to make the fundamental changes needed to prepare principals for today's schools. To test a path forward, The…

The purpose of this study is to explore how the interactional processes between young professionals and their coach develops leader-identity over time. The explosive growth of coaching as the dominate leadership development practice continues to outpace scholars efforts to understand how it works (Pandolfi, 2020). Dominant psychotherapy approaches…

Emotional intelligence is good for business. That is the growing consensus across sectors in recent years. In schools, the focus on people's well-being and interpersonal skills is called social and emotional learning (SEL). The Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) defines SEL as the process through which children and…

Ancient Chinese philosopher Lao-Tzu is often credited with the phrase, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step." Unfortunately, he had nothing to say about which step was the right one. Your journey to be the leader you want to be begins here. "Lead 4 Success" sets your development as a leader on the right track,…