Internships for women in higher education administration: Springboards for success?

Issue title: Women, Work and Culture

Article type: Research Article

Authors: O'Brien, Shirley Peganoff | Janssen, Karen N.

Affiliations: Department of Occupational Therapy, Eastern Kentucky University, 521 Lancaster Avenue, Richmond, KY 40475, USA. Tel.: +1 859 622 3300; E-mail: shirley.o'[email protected] | Department of Special Education, Eastern Kentucky University, Richmond, KY 40475, USA

Note: [] Corresponding author

Abstract: Administrative positions within higher education have been very homogeneous, reflecting an institutional culture in which males prevail. In an attempt to encourage women to consider alternatives in administrative positions, internship programs were developed to provide women with opportunities and a mechanism for career advancement. The purpose of this case study was to examine what women did as a result of participating in such an administrative internship program over a ten year time period at a comprehensive university. Interview data yielded consistent results that support existing literature about women in higher education. Trends were identified and recommendations suggested for encouraging more diversity within administrative positions in higher educational institutions. The findings of this study confirm the need for mentoring relationships for women in administrative positions.

Keywords: higher education, women, administration, mentoring

Journal: Work, vol. 24, no. 4, pp. 353-359, 2005