Abstract
Despite constituting the majority of mid-level academic professionals and outpacing men in educational attainment, women remain significantly underrepresented in senior leadership roles across higher education. This mixed-methods (n=20) study explores the “sacrifice gap”-the disproportionate personal, professional, and economic costs women bear to reach leadership positions-by centering the lived experiences of women leaders navigating the intersection of family expectations, institutional barriers, and identity-based discrimination. Quantitative survey data from women in higher education leadership reveal that caregiving roles such as motherhood, partnership, and household management are perceived as moderate but persistent hindrances to career advancement, with these roles functioning as interconnected, systemic barriers regardless of career stage. Qualitative analysis further uncovers the enduring influence of patriarchal institutional cultures, gendered scrutiny, mobility constraints, mentorship gaps, and the chilling effect of recent high-profile dismissals of women leaders. Despite these obstacles, participants demonstrate resilience and a commitment to redefining leadership through collaboration, inclusivity, and mentorship. The findings underscore the need for systemic, organizational reforms-including gender-neutral promotion policies, formal mentorship programs, and family-friendly supports-to close the sacrifice gap and foster equitable pathways to academic leadership for women.
Recommended Citation
Shollenberger, Tara K.
(2025)
"The Sacrifice Gap: Examining the Influence of Family Expectations and Institutional Barriers Impacting Women's Leadership in Higher Education,"
Journal of Organizational & Educational Leadership: Vol. 11:
Iss.
1, Article 3.
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.gardner-webb.edu/joel/vol11/iss1/3
Included in
Educational Leadership Commons, Family and Consumer Sciences Commons, Higher Education Administration Commons