An Evaluation of Female Leaders in European Higher Education and the Glass Escalator
Frank E. Billingsley, Ph.D
Abstract
This paper will evaluate the gender imbalance in European higher education. Women are underrepresented in leadership positions, and many face barriers such as unconscious bias, lack of access to networking opportunities, and work-life balance issues.
There is a theory that could better explain why this phenomenon is occurring—the theory of the glass escalator or glass elevator. Williams (2013) coined the theory of the glass escalator to explain how women are still overlooked for administrative roles in predominately female careers. The research suggests that the glass escalator phenomenon is still prevalent. Studies have shown that men in female-dominated professions, such as nursing and teaching, are likelier to be promoted to leadership positions and earn higher salaries than women in the same fields.
This preliminary research will qualitatively study women leaders in European higher education institutions by correlating the theory of the glass escalator. The research will utilize secondary data from the European Commission from 2021. The goal will be to evaluate and promote gender balance and assess how institutions can take steps forward. By taking these steps, institutions will be better able to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in higher education leadership and create a more equitable and just academic environment.
Full Text: PDF DOI: 10.15640/ijgws.v11n1a5
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