Women Midwestern University Presidents Reach One in Three: A Potential Tipping Point for Gender Parity

This research focused on women’s leadership in U. S. college and university presidencies. The authors examined publicly available data that reveal trends in women’s leadership in U. S. higher education. By placing the analysis of data in a larger context, the study identifies this moment as a potential tipping point for women university presidents. Specifically, the study targets Midwestern U. S. regional universities with attention to these variables: presidents’ gender in 2020 and 2023, transition patterns in leadership, and relevant distinctions between public and private institutions. The analysis focuses on leadership changes that differ from national trends and the potential tipping point for gender parity. Further, conclusions are drawn for aspiring women presidents and institutions that wish to advance gender inclusion at the presidential level. Finally, the authors recommend areas of further inquiry and research.