Date on Master's Thesis/Doctoral Dissertation

5-2024

Document Type

Doctoral Dissertation

Degree Name

Ph. D.

Department

Educational Leadership, Evaluation and Organizational Development

Degree Program

Educational Leadership and Organizational Development, PhD

Committee Chair

Brydon-Miller, Mary

Committee Co-Chair (if applicable)

Sun, Jeffrey C.

Committee Member

Sun, Jeffrey C.

Committee Member

Rose, Kevin

Committee Member

Rivers, Ishwanzya

Author's Keywords

critical utopian action research (CUAR); black feminist theory; diversity in technology leadership; future-creating workshop; intersectionality in leadership; technology education

Abstract

This Critical Utopian Action Research (CUAR) study delves into the intersection of authentic leadership, Black Feminist Thought (BFT), and technology leadership development, focusing on the perspectives of emerging adult Black femme-identifying or gender-expansive individuals. Addressing two primary research questions, the study investigates their idealized visions for technology leadership programs and discerns key factors differentiating authentic leadership from models incorporating BFT. Through qualitative analysis of Future-Creating Workshop outputs and participant narratives, the study unveils multifaceted themes. Participants articulate a vision of technology leadership development rooted in authenticity, intersectionality, and inclusivity. Their ideal programs prioritize celebrating complex identities, engaging through technology, and advocating for diversity in the tech industry. The narratives highlight the transformative power of supportive environments and mentorship in engaging diverse identities in leadership and innovation. The study's theoretical implications underscore the necessity of integrating intersectionality into leadership models, particularly within tech education and industry. Augmenting authentic leadership with BFT and intersectionality fosters more inclusive and empowering leadership practices. Furthermore, the research reveals a need for a nuanced approach to identity leadership, acknowledging the authenticity of intersectional identities within collective social identity Practical implications emphasize the importance of incorporating intersectionality into leadership development initiatives and fostering inclusive organizational cultures. Organizations should actively involve intersectional identities in co-creating initiatives to drive organizational development and innovation. Moreover, technology education initiatives must integrate intersectional perspectives into curriculum design and pedagogical approaches to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the societal impact of technology. In summary, this study contributes to both theoretical and practical domains by illuminating the transformative potential of authentic leadership informed by BFT and intersectionality. By centering the voices and experiences of marginalized individuals, organizations can cultivate inclusive leadership practices and foster innovation in the tech industry.

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