Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this study was to investigate career success of African-American males who lead select nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles County and to draw upon their experiences, perceptions, and leadership skills as President/CEO. Methodology. This research was descriptive multiple case study. Using the words of six African-American male leaders of nonprofit organizations was studied. The type of sampling used in the study was purposive sampling. The instrument used for the study was in-depth interviews. Triangulation of the data was conducted through document mining, data mining, annual reports, board member interviews, and archive materials. Findings. The participants far exceeded the occupational and educational accomplishments of their parents. The participants grew up with a sense of responsibility and self-confidence. Each participant concentrated on tasks such as planning, work ethic and performance. Participant's mothers strongly influenced their career. All participants were strongly influenced by positive role model/mentors in the early years. All participants were given advice by a role model/mentor. Conclusions. The following conclusions were made: (1) The literature and the study corroborated that most African-American men are highly motivated by the desire to "make a difference," and to "help the community." (2) The literature suggests that African Americans are looking to carry the torch as today's leaders in for-profits and nonprofits organizations. (3) The participants in this study indicate that their forte and success has come from the nonprofit sector. (4) The results of this study suggest African-American male President/CEO are middle age, have impressive educational credentials, and display a commitment to strong work ethic. Recommendations. The following are recommendations for further study: (1) Include women and/or a replication into other ethnic groups, i.e., Chinese, Korean, Hispanics, to determine perceived barriers and strategies that lead to President/CEO of nonprofit organizations, (2) A larger study of African-American male President/CEO outside of Los Angeles County to include California and/or all fifty states, (3) A study of retired African-American President/CEO of nonprofit organizations, (4) A study of African-American founders of nonprofits organizations, (5) A study of African-American financial success vs. hierarchical success, (6) A study of career satisfaction of African Americans in nonprofit organizations.