The transition from faculty to administration in higher education is a multifaceted journey influenced by individual backgrounds, experiences, academic disciplines, politics, and relationships. This essay explores the nuanced experiences of three female university leaders—representing the fields of law, education, and science—as they share insights, challenges, and best practices in navigating this pivotal transition. Given the underrepresentation of women and historically excluded groups in higher education leadership positions (Ford, 2016; Morley, 2013), this work seeks to contribute to the limited body of knowledge surrounding effective strategies for supporting and promoting diversity in academic leadership roles.
From “Rename and Remain” to “Reframe and Regain”: Reimagining Campus Inclusiveness
In my last article, I highlighted the crucial strategies of “person-first” and “targeted universalism” amid the wave of anti-DEI legislation in higher education. Initially, many of us embraced a “rename
Molly Kerby
July 7, 2025
