ERIC Number: ED659359
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 228
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3835-9676-0
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Native American Women Leadership in Higher Education
Monica Etsitty-Dorame
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, The University of New Mexico
This qualitative study explored leadership in higher education through the perspectives of six Native American women faculty at a southwest university. The study utilized a Dine informed conceptual framework incorporating the Dine Philosophy of education, the Dine philosophy of life (Sa'ah Naaghai Bik'eh Hozhoon - SNBH), and the Dine ceremonial basket. The research examined how Native women faculty perceived leadership, their identity as leaders in higher education, their leadership in the community, and how their background and context influenced their perception of leadership. Further, it explored their roles within academic and community settings. The study employed narrative inquiry and thematic analysis to interpret the experiences and insights. Four themes developed -- Self-discovery and Transition to Leadership, Leading in Academia, Collaborative Leaders, and From Adversity to Assurance to Advocacy -- each aligning with the four pillars of the Dine Philosophy of Learning and SNBH: Thinking (Nitsahakees), Planning (Nahat'a), Living (Iina), and Assurance (Sihasin). The findings suggest that Native American women's leadership is characterized by a holistic, non-linear approach that emphasizes community, collaboration, and cultural values. Leadership is portrayed as a journey of continuous learning and giving back, reflecting traditional teachings of balance and resilience. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of the unique leadership styles of Native American women in higher education and underscores the importance of incorporating Indigenous philosophies into leadership discourse. The study is significant as it provides insight and understanding into Native women's leadership through their lens and their lived experiences. Implications for higher education are discussed with insights on how to create a conducive higher education environment to retain Native faculty. [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.]
Descriptors: Females, American Indians, Women Faculty, Women Administrators, Teacher Attitudes, Leadership Role, Higher Education, Community Leaders, Teacher Background, Holistic Approach, Leadership Styles, Cooperation, Cultural Influences, Values, Indigenous Populations, Indigenous Knowledge
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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