Author Type

Graduate Student

Date of Award

2007

Document Type

Dissertation

Publication Status

Version of Record

Submission Date

October 2026

Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]

Guglielmino, Lucy M.

Abstract

The purpose of this grounded theory study was to explore the selfdevelopment of women executives of philanthropic organizations to determine their approaches to learning for leading. Women occupy 1.4% to 53% of the executive positions in the U.S. depending on the sector, yet little is known about their learning needs and strategies. The research questions asked how these women executives learned to develop successfully in their positions and what informal learning strategies they used. This study explored the perspectives of 22 women executives of philanthropic organizations in South Florida and Western Washington. The foundations represented by the participants varied widely in size, purpose, and structure. The study yields evidence that learning and leading are inextricably connected. There is also evidence that learning needs and learning strategies change over the course of one's career. They use a variety of learning resources including mentors, workshops, and resources such as books, journals and the internet. Early strategies include training and mentoring. Later strategies refine conceptual skills through conversations with colleagues. Discussion includes implications for executive development programs and recommendations for practice and further research.

Extent

152 p.

Comments

Includes bibliography.|Dissertation (Ph.D.)--Florida Atlantic University, 2007.|College of Education|FAU Electronic Theses and Dissertations Collection|Includes bibliography.

Identifier

FA00000676

Format

pdf

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