Date of Award

5-2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Education (EdD)

Department

Executive Leadership

First Supervisor

Dr. Shannon Cleverley-Thompson

Second Supervisor

Dr. Joshua Fegley

Abstract

The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the lived experiences of African American women who identified as transformational leaders and who successfully navigated adulthood after experiencing the foster care system. Post-traumatic growth (PTG) theory served as the theoretical framework for this study, which reflects a positive mental shift brought about by struggling with at least one extremely difficult life circumstance. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with eight African American women, and five themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) Journey to Transformational Leadership: Self-Awareness, Vulnerability, and Self Acceptance; (b) From Repeating to Repairing; (c) You Either Have to Lie Down or Get Up; (d) Remember Who You Are, and (e) Look At Me Now. The study’s findings highlight the shortcomings of the foster care system in meeting the needs of African American youth and women. Despite these challenges, the participants exhibited remarkable leadership skills and resilience, emphasizing the necessity for enhanced support and systemic reforms. The results of this study contribute to a more holistic understanding of the experiences of African American women within the foster care system, while also challenging the prevailing narratives of victimhood and deficit. Recommendations are shared for future research, the foster care system, social workers, foster care parents, community organizations, educational systems, and policies. African American females deserve a more equitable and nurturing experience in the foster care system so they can do more than survive, but have an opportunity to thrive.

Download

Included in

Education Commons

Share

COinS