The Weight of the Crown: A Phenomenological Study of African American Women Leaders’ Mental Well-Being in Higher Education

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of African American women leaders in higher education, focusing on their mental well-being. Guided by a transcendental phenomenological approach, the research seeks to understand how these leaders perceive, navigate, and maintain their mental health within complex institutional environments. Participants included 11 African American women holding leadership positions across HBCU, PWI, and technical and community colleges with leadership tenure ranging from five to twenty years. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, allowing participants to share personal narratives, challenges, and coping strategies in their own words. Thematic analysis revealed several key findings: the profound impact of institutional culture on mental well-being, the role of mentorship and peer support in fostering resilience, strategies for balancing professional demands with personal life, and the influence of spiritual or reflective practices in sustaining mental health. Participants described experiences of both overt and subtle systemic challenges, as well as environments marked by affirmation and support, highlighting the variability of leadership contexts. These findings underscore the need for higher education institutions to implement policies and practices that support the emotional and professional well-being of African American women leaders, including structured mentorship, culturally responsive leadership development, and wellness resources. This study contributes to the understanding of how race, gender, and leadership intersect to shape mental well-being and offers implications for creating more inclusive and supportive academic workplaces.