Abstract
This study focuses on the scarcity of Latina administrators working in the California Community College system. Forty-seven percent of California community college students are Latinx, and only 20% of California community college administrators are Latinas. This qualitative phenomenology study explored the lived experiences of Latina administrators who worked in the California Community College system and provided insight into why so few exist. The data collection process for the research used Pláticas with six current and retired Latina administrators. The data uncovered the need for mentorship and support systems to help Latinas navigate academia as well as the need to build a pipeline for Latinx faculty to leadership roles along with leadership development programs. Barriers included unfavorable hiring practices and the challenge of maintaining family obligations at the executive level. The findings specify the need for changes in the community college to dismantle institutional racism, find ways to empower and support Latinas to move into administrative roles, and enhance hiring practices to ensure Latinx representation in both faculty and staff. Participants reflected on their leadership journeys by sharing a symbolic artifact, picture, or item to represent their journey to academia. The research findings may be of interest to stakeholders, policymakers, community members, and students.