Perceived Barriers, Challenges, Successes, and Rewards of Leadership Positions in Colleges of Health Professions: A Survey of Female Leaders.

Aims: This study explored the perceptions of female leaders in schools of health professions regarding the barriers, challenges, successes, and rewards of holding academic leadership positions.

Methods: The study utilized an exploratory survey research design with convenience sampling. The survey was electronically disseminated to academic representatives from 115 Association of Schools of Advancing Health Professions member institutions with subsequent distribution via institution representative.

Results: 310 individual responses were collected, 268 participants completed the entire survey, and 95 participants identified as female currently serving in a leadership position. Top perceived barriers included time demands and concerns about increased workload. Faculty personnel issues and time management/workload demands were reported as the top perceived challenges. Participants reported confidence, experience, and enjoying the responsibilities of the position as primarily perceived successes associated with leadership. Top rewarding responsibilities included making an impact/ability to make a difference, advancing department/school/institution, and collaborations with new colleagues.

Conclusion: Institutions should consider intentional succession planning, professional development on leadership, formal mentorship programs, and an evaluation and revision of policies to support work-life demands, affirmative action, and bias training.