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Abstract
Seventeen percent of American college and university presidents are classified as a member of a minority racial or ethnic group; African American/Black college and university presidents only make of eight percent of those leaders (American Council on Education, 2017). Recently, historically, white liberal arts colleges (HWLACs) have been leading the charge in diversifying the American college presidency, with at least five new presidents who identify as African American/Black since 2013 (Lewis, 2016). A handful more of African American/Black presidents at HWLACs have since been added and it is important that the stories of current African American/Black college presidents be told in order influence and support future leaders. This study explores the career pathways of eight African American/Black presidents who lead (or have lead) HWLACs. Through their experiences, they offer a glimpse into their rise to the position of president at their respective institutions and the impact race has had on their abilities to lead. Most of the presidents had considerable experience as academicians prior to their appointments while others were prepared through leadership in industry before moving into higher education. Each of the participants held the distinction of being the first of their race to be named president at their respective institution; and some actually, became presidents at more than one institution. Furthermore, the presidents consider their position as a call to service and assume a responsibility to influence future diversity in higher education leadership. Each presidents story presents opportunities that can be used to help prepare future leaders through professional development, mentoring relationships, and the improvement of doctoral (and terminal) degree programs.