Invisible No More: The Journey of Las Ejecutivas, a Case Study of the Lived Experiences of Executive Latinas in a Four-Year Hispanic-Serving Institution

Abstract

Based on prior research and this study, it is evident that Latinas are significantly underrepresented in executive positions within Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs). Overcoming the challenges to progress beyond midlevel positions remains an issue, with very few Latinas able to attain senior leadership roles. This qualitative study uses testimonios (personal stories) as its primary methodology. It incorporates oral, written, and expressive testimonios with five carefully selected participants holding executive positions at an HSI in the southwest. The participants are referred to hereafter as las ejecutivas. For this study, executive positions encompass titles such as Assistant or Associate Vice Provost, Assistant or Associate Vice President, Vice Provost, and Vice President. The analytical framework was guided by Funds of Knowledge (FOK) and Social Capital (SOC) elements, highlighting how different aspects of marginalized identities intersect within the context of higher education. The main themes that emerged were: (1) Latinas greatly benefit from mentorship and sponsorship, which help break down barriers to advancement, advocacy, and empowerment; (2) Latinas derive invaluable support from their families and cultural identity, significantly impacting their integrity and self-focus; (3) Latinas face a unique set of professional challenges that stem from the intersection of gender, race, and ethnicity; (4) Latinas struggle to reconcile the demands of their professional roles with their familial responsibilities (work-life balance). The study examines the practical implications of its findings and provides recommendations for institutions to foster a more supportive environment for Latina professionals in higher education. It also provides strategies to help Latinas advance in their careers and offers advice for navigating the higher education landscape using their FOK and strengthening their SOC.