Statement of Purpose and Method of Study: A narrative qualitative methodology was used to examine the pathway of women superintendents within Mississippi. This study explored the superintendency for women seeking to ascend. Among the nation's 13,728 superintendents (U.S. Department of Education, 2019), only 1,984 are women, and of the 142 superintendents in Mississippi, only 39 are women (Mississippi Association of School Superintendents, 2018). Due to the disproportionate number of women serving as superintendents, there was a need for a more thorough investigation into women who have successfully obtained a superintendent position. Findings and Conclusions: This study found that gender continues to impact women as they advance towards superintendent positions. The findings indicated that hard work, a strong work ethic, collaboration, relationships, and empathy are necessary when women seek to advance to superintendent positions. Furthermore, findings from this study showed that societal perceptions, gender norms, fear, and self-doubt are significant barriers to women who advance to the superintendent position. Most importantly, this study found that family, networking, and mentorships provided pathways of success for women to overcome barriers and advance to the superintendent position. Published research supports these findings and proves that despite various barriers during ascendency, mentorship serves as a support for women. Mentors and networking are often critical components in the superintendency's career path (Walker, 2019). Angel et al. explained that mentoring relationships would increase the likelihood for women in advanced leadership levels (2013). Finally, this study should encourage aspiring female superintendents that they can successfully balance family and careers. All participants from this study chose to pursue both family and a career. Significant family demands created a challenge in work-life balance for participants, but their web of support allowed them to balance families and careers. Personal and family support for female superintendents was crucial in minimizing the work-life balance pressure experienced by female superintendents. In keeping with the broader research literature, this study indicated that women who accept the support of others and build healthy relationships could maintain a successful superintendency. [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.]