The focus of the study was to understand how African American men who achieved leadership positions in Power 5 NCAA Division I schools constructed their stories about the influence and benefits of role models in their career pursuits. Semistructured interviews were used to gather in-depth information from five to 15 African Americans in athletic leadership positions who, over the course of their careers, collectively represented eight of the 65schools that comprise the Power 5 NCAA Division I conferences. The participants were selected through purposive sampling, and a qualitative narrative inquiry design was used to address the research questions. The analysis of the participants' stories resulted in three themes: (a) the benefits of role models, (b) role model expectations, and (c) perceived racial barriers. The results revealed that the benefits of a role model, role model expectations, and how marginalized groups perceive racial barriers can help to mitigate the impact of race and racism for African American men who aspire to attain high-level positions in Power 5 NCAA Division I athletic programs. The study adds to the literature by providing a greater understanding of how African American men can leverage the benefits and influences of role models. The results could also serve as a blueprint for other African American men on how to build professional networks, identify accessible role models, and determine best practices to use their mentor's tutelage to overcome racial barriers. Future research could focus on institutional practices that address the mitigation or elimination of status quo practices. [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.]