Abstract
This qualitative study examines the lived experiences of Filipino American women working in leadership positions at higher education institutions. The study uses Critical Race Theory as well as Feminist Critical Theory, Latina/o/x Critical Race Theory, and Asian Critical Race Theory as a framework with which to view the stories of its participants. A review of the history of Filipino American immigration from specific time periods provides an historical perspective from which to understand their lived experiences. This phenomenological study includes interviews of 10 Filipino American women leaders employed at colleges and universities in the United States to gain insights into their experience as presented in their own voice. Specifically, this study will address the following research questions: 1. What are the personal and professional challenges and facilitators that Filipino American women encounter to attain positions of leadership at institutions of higher education? 2. What role might historical events and socio-cultural factors have on Filipino American women to create opportunities and obstacles for working in leadership positions at colleges universities in the present? 3. How can the study of historical literature and the lived experience interview findings contribute to the development of Filipino Critical Race Theory (FlipCRiT)?