Breaking Barriers: Women in Higher Education Leadership

The Current Landscape of Women in Higher Education Leadership

The state of women in higher education leadership reflects both progress and persistent inequities. For example, over the past several decades, women have made significant strides, taking on roles such as provosts, deans, and department chairs in increasing numbers.

According to the Women’s Power Gap initiative, women held 30 percent of U.S. university presidencies in 2023—a seven percent increase since 2021. In addition, 39 percent of provost positions were occupied by females. While these figures indicate some advancement, they also underscore the slow pace of progress. In fact, nearly 40 percent of U.S. institutions have never had a woman president, which is an important reminder of the systemic barriers that persist in higher education leadership.

“Women are still seen as caregivers,” says Priscilla Boerger, a professor of Regis College’s EdD in Leadership program. “So cultural barriers can stand in the way for women seeking leadership positions since these biases continue to be prominent in our country.”

Intersectionality further complicates the picture. Women of color, in particular, face compounded challenges stemming from systemic biases and cultural expectations, making their journey to leadership even more arduous.

On a positive note though, recent efforts to prioritize diversity and inclusion have spurred incremental progress. Awareness campaigns, mentorship initiatives, and policy changes aimed at addressing gender inequities have begun to open doors. Yet, for many aspiring women leaders, these advancements are not enough to counteract deeply rooted biases and structural inequities.

Understanding the current landscape is vital for those navigating these challenges. However, there are other tactics for aspiring female leaders in higher education. Here are powerful strategies you can use to better navigate these challenges, build leadership skills, and build confidence in the field.

How to Break Barriers as a Women in Higher Education Leadership

1. Build a Strong Professional Network

Networking is a critical component of leadership development, particularly for women in higher education. A strong professional network can provide guidance, open doors to new opportunities, and foster a sense of belonging in a field where women often face unique challenges.

Building a network that’s going to benefit your career doesn’t happen overnight though. It often requires genuine professional relationships with mentors who align with your goals and values.

Mentors can help you navigate the challenges of higher education leadership, offering advice and encouragement as you progress in your career. Faculty members, alumni, and colleagues can all serve as potential mentors who can guide you based on their experiences.

“Early on in my higher education career I was fortunate enough to have the most amazing mentor, the Dean of my school,” Boerger says. “He saw leadership qualities in me I didn’t know I had and gave me responsibilities that helped me grow into a leader.”

Since networking goes hand in hand with mentorship, it’s important to participate in industry conferences, campus initiatives, and professional organizations. Many advanced education programs, like an EdD in Higher Education Leadership, also provide opportunities to expand your network through cohort models and access to experienced faculty and guest speakers.

Regis Tip: Here’s a closer look at how you can build a strong mentorship relationship.

• Seek mentors proactively: Look for individuals whose careers align with your aspirations, and don’t hesitate to ask for guidance
• Leverage professional networks: Join organizations that focus on higher education leadership, such as the American Council on Education’s Women’s Network
• Participate in collaborative projects: Get involved in group initiatives, committees, or research projects that allow you to connect with colleagues and showcase your skills

A network built on mutual professional respect and collaboration can serve as the foundation for a thriving career in higher education leadership. It’s not just about who you know—it’s about creating meaningful connections that inspire and empower you to achieve your goals.

2. Prioritize Professional Development

For women who feel stuck in their career advancement, professional development can be the key to breaking through. Leadership roles demand more than just expertise—they require strategic thinking, adaptability, and the ability to address complex institutional challenges. By committing to your own growth, you send a clear message that you are ready for the next level, both to decision-makers and to yourself.

One of the most transformative steps you can take is pursuing advanced education, such as an EdD in Higher Education Leadership. Programs like these provide not only a deep dive into critical areas like institutional strategy, governance, and decision-making but also a supportive environment where you can refine your leadership style and build confidence. They offer a clear path to gaining the qualifications and skills that are often prerequisites for executive roles.

However, professional development extends beyond formal education, including:

• Conferences
• Certifications
• Workshops

Investing in professional development isn’t just about checking boxes; it’s about breaking down barriers. For women navigating the unique challenges of higher education leadership, prioritizing your growth equips you to overcome obstacles, seize new opportunities, and position yourself as a capable, forward-thinking leader ready to make a lasting impact.

3. Overcome Imposter Syndrome

For many women striving to advance their careers in higher education, imposter syndrome can be a significant barrier. That persistent feeling of not feeling "good enough" or worrying others will question your competence can hold you back from pursuing leadership opportunities.

One way to combat imposter syndrome is through education. Advanced programs, such as an EdD in Higher Education Leadership, offer a structured space to develop expertise, tackle complex challenges, and demonstrate your capabilities in real-world scenarios. Completing a rigorous program like this not only strengthens your qualifications but also reinforces your confidence by proving to yourself—and others—that you have what it takes to lead.

“Step into the shoes!” Boerger notes. “Don’t let anyone tell you they don’t fit. Women have the mindset, temperament, knowledge, and skills to be great leaders.”

Regis Tip: Imposter syndrome is common among female professionals. Here are some steps you can take to build your confidence.

• Document your successes: Keep a record of your achievements and positive feedback to remind yourself of your value
• Adopt a growth mindset: View mistakes and challenges as learning opportunities rather than failures
• Lean on your network: Talk to mentors and trusted peers about your doubts—they can often provide reassurance and constructive advice
• Focus on preparation: Use the skills and knowledge you’ve gained—through education, experience, and training—as a foundation for confidence

Overcoming imposter syndrome doesn’t mean silencing all doubts; it means refusing to let those doubts define you. By focusing on your strengths, seeking support, and continuing to grow, you can push past the fear of not being enough and step confidently into the leadership roles you aspire to achieve.

4. Join Support Networks

Leadership is rarely a solo endeavor. And for women in higher education, joining strong support networks is a vital strategy for overcoming challenges and advancing their career.

Support systems can come in many forms, including:

• Professional organizations
• Alumni associations
• Community groups

For example, professional groups like the American Council on Education’s Women’s Network, Higher Education Resource Services (HERS), and the National Association for College Admission Counseling Women in Admission Special Interest Group offer invaluable resources, including leadership training, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities tailored to women in academia. These organizations are designed to help women connect, collaborate, and navigate the unique challenges they face in higher education leadership.

Education also plays a role in building networks. Advanced programs like an EdD in Higher Education Leadership often include cohort models, bringing together professionals who share similar aspirations and challenges. These cohorts foster lasting connections, creating a built-in support system that extends well beyond graduation.

Empower the Next Generation of Women Leaders

For women aspiring to break through the glass ceiling and lead in higher education, the Regis College EdD in Leadership program provides the expertise to turn ambition into action. Whether you aim to refine your strategic planning abilities, develop innovative governance structures, or foster inclusive student engagement, the program prepares you to excel in today’s evolving educational landscape.

Take the next step to advance your career, break barriers, and inspire future women in higher education.