One of the many challenges confronting community colleges is the reality that a majority of community college presidents are approaching retirement. This situation has become critical and two-year colleges face an unprecedented leadership crisis. There is a call for community colleges to identify new leaders and provide them with opportunities to acquire and practice the competencies demanded of leaders in the 21st century. The question driving this study is based on the experiences of female college presidents and how their experiences can assist in preparing aspiring female leaders to fulfill the mission of two-year institutions in an environment of rapid change. The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, this study will explore the backgrounds, experiences, and leadership perspectives of women who rose to the presidency of two-year institutions to gain insight into the qualities of successful professional development endeavors. Second, the results of this study may be used to provide practical guidelines for future professional development programs for women with similar leadership aspirations. [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.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]