Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to determine the circumstances and factors in the lives of seven African-American California community college presidents that they perceive to have enabled them to succeed to a presidency. What in their personal history, relationships, and life events provided the foundation for them to succeed to the presidency? What strategies did they use to accomplish the tasks, and what factors in their lives may have inhibited that success? What personal rewards have they experienced in their presidency? As more African-American administrators aspire to higher-education administrative positions, more personal and historical information is needed. Methodology. This is a naturalistic multi-case study which used a series of interviews as the primary research tool. Findings and conclusions. The results of this study indicate that the circumstances and factors that most greatly influenced these seven individuals took place early in life and were the results of strong family support and educational nurturing that provided for the development of self-confidence and self-esteem and the resilience to succeed despite impediments they encountered as adults. The impact of family history and relationships and the importance of building a foundation for self-esteem and self-confidence was the overriding theme in this study. Recommendations. The implications for the future of African-American leaders may hinge on the foundation years and relationships between the parents, educators, and the child. Mothers, fathers, and educators should serve as "encouragers" and "supporters" to assist their children in reaching their goals. There should be a strong emphasis on the value of education by the family as the child progresses through school and makes plans for college. Further research may address the influences of parental and educational nurturing, the changing marriage and family patterns of today's society versus that of these presidents.