This research study examined the conditions and features that have worked in concert to afford a select group of high school/unit district superintendents to become highly successful. Many studies have critically looked at leadership, educational leadership, and the superintendency, however, this one utilizes a non-educational theoretical framework to identify the passions, aptitudes, attitudes, and opportunities that have led to the successful experiences of six Illinois superintendents. Sir Ken Robinson (2009) calls the place where these four components are working in harmony to achieve success, "The Element." This qualitative selected-multiple-case-study focused on the stories of six superintendents. Selection criteria was leveled in an effort to identify the "highly successful" superintendents for this study. The intensive interviews resulted in a set of data that were analyzed and coded. These data were then triangulated through the examination of ACT achievement data and the individual districts' strategic and/or school improvement plans. This study uncovered four themes and 16 subthemes relevant to the stories of the superintendents. The findings suggests there is no identical set of skills, most important theme, one specific career path, or necessary common experience, per se, that leads to the success of a superintendent. Rather, the leader must be absolutely committed to improving the experiences and outcomes for students, they must profoundly believe in their ability to make a difference, and they have to engage and balance a certain level of go and humility in order to be able to successfully do this work. Ultimately, they must locate and act within their Element, as defined by Sir Ken Robinson (2009). [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.]