Date of Award

2025

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

First Advisor

Anthony T. Caito

Abstract

Mentorship and persistence among women NCAA Division III Athletics Directors (ADs) remain underexamined despite their significance for leadership continuity. With women comprising only 33% of Division III ADs, intentional mentorship is essential to advancing gender equity in collegiate athletics. This qualitative study analyzes interviews with ten women ADs to examine mentorship structures, professional trajectories, and psychosocial outcomes. Seven themes emerged: institutional culture and alignment; supervisors as mentors; queen bee syndrome; career pathways; influential leadership; Clutterbuck’s mentorship phases; and psychosocial support. Informal mentorship proved most effective, frequently developing into sustained professional relationships. Participants reported increased confidence, validation, and emotional support, particularly through relationships with female mentors who shared similar experiences in male-dominated environments. These findings highlight mentorship as a critical factor in fostering women’s persistence in athletic leadership and underscore the need for institutional strategies that promote authentic leadership and address systemic gender barriers. Future research should examine mentorship across NCAA divisions and its impact on career longevity.

Download

Share

COinS