The Power of HER

Sometimes we present forward the beautiful things we have in life and our experiences; but when we do, oftentimes, we exclude the hurt, pain, tears, and pressure. It is hard because we wrestle with something we cannot see. That is the BUT. What is it and what are we doing to address it? The BUT is the pressure, the depression, the addictions, the worry, and the anxiety. The BUT is the war or attack you are preparing for, and you are preparing for it blindly. In this case, the source of the issue determines the strategy and the type of war you are battling. The battle we fight is the foundation of our purpose. We can stand our ground, fight battles we can see, and fight with weapons that are visible but what about the invisible battles, how do we go forth with those? The same source of the issue determines the strategy. Commitment becomes control. You cannot be authentic and still have control because control is not existent. You cannot grow without letting go of your comparison to others' standards. The expectations of perfection. We must learn to let go. Anytime you dress up as something you are not, it is always a trick and never a treat. You do not need to be something else or someone else to gain respect, you can gain it by being yourself, your true self!!!

In the realm of women and leadership, women in mentor-like positions have become vital, specifically because they bring a unique perspective to conversations, perhaps some that have been influenced by lived experiences. Authenticity has often been spoken of in terms of “keeping it real,” but what about in the world of nonprofits? The diversity that these women bring to their respective positions adds layers of complexity of authenticity, prompting us to explore how they define it within their unique contexts and how they practice it in their leadership styles. My research seeks to uncover the specific actions, behaviors, and strategies undertaken by these women to ensure the consistent practice of authenticity in their leadership styles, shedding light on their invaluable contributions to the non-profit sector and their influence on organizational culture and outcomes.

This research endeavors to explore and understand how women from diverse backgrounds who hold mentor-like positions in non-profit organizations maintain authenticity in their leadership styles. Authenticity in leadership is a multifaceted concept that encompasses being true to oneself, aligning one's actions with their values and beliefs, and fostering a genuine connection with their colleagues and mentees. Understanding how women in mentor-like roles define authenticity and the strategies they employ to ensure its practice is essential to comprehend the intricacies of leadership in contemporary non-profits.

Contact Information

The Power of HER: Acknowledgements

In the culmination of this academic odyssey, it is both an honor and a privilege to extend my heartfelt gratitude to those whose unwavering support and guidance have been instrumental in the completion of this dissertation. This journey has been a challenging yet rewarding expedition, and I am profoundly grateful for the contributions of the remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on this scholarly endeavor. To begin, I express my deepest appreciation to my advisor Dr. Ronett Jacobs aka Dr. J, whose mentorship and expertise have been the guiding beacons throughout this research expedition. Your invaluable insights, constructive feedback, and boundless encouragement have not only shaped the trajectory of this dissertation but have also been a source of inspiration for my academic growth.

I am indebted to my PEARLS Sisters Jo McBeth, Kiarra Russell, T’wanna Taylor, La’Daja Miller, and Monique Beasley for their discerning perspectives, scholarly input, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Each sister has played a unique role in refining the scope and depth of this work, and I am profoundly grateful for their collective wisdom.

Additionally, I extend my thanks to Alverno College, where the academic environment fostered intellectual curiosity and provided the resources essential for the successful completion of this research. The collaborative spirit among fellow scholars and the dedication of the faculty have been invaluable components of my academic journey. Furthermore, I wish to express my deepest gratitude to my family for their unwavering support, understanding, and encouragement. Your belief in my abilities has been a constant source of strength, motivating me to persevere through the challenges inherent in this academic pursuit.

Finally, to my best friends Krystal Lacrosse and Lonzo Lesure who have shared in the highs and lows of this journey, your camaraderie and encouragement have made this endeavor not only academically enriching but also personally fulfilling. This dissertation stands as a testament to the collective effort and support of these exceptional individuals. As I reflect on this journey, I am reminded that scholarly pursuits are not solitary endeavors but collaborative ventures enriched by the contributions of many.