"Many readers may find themselves newly aroused to seek out roads not yet traveled, largely because of the questions raised. Dr. Curry’s own wide range of knowledge, and the histories lived by individual women challenge us with a new perspective on leadership, responsive to the unpredictable shifts and changes in a postmodern world."

–From the Foreword by Maxine Greene

In this exciting addition to the field of leadership development, author Barbara Curry charts a course for women as leaders on their own terms. Curry moves beyond traditional, formulaic conceptions to examine leadership as a fluid, adaptive process closely entwined with adult development. Drawing from philosophical, sociological, and physiological explorations of the leader persona, Curry approaches leadership as an interdisciplinary art. She cast aside mythical characterizations of leadership to illuminate a more holistic conceptual framework that fosters the development of authentic leadership.

Using portraits of eight women in high-level leadership roles, Curry probes the kinds of conflict that often accompany women’s ascendancy to positions of power. Thoughtfully, Curry examines the constellation of character traits and environmental circumstances that enable individuals to perceive of themselves as leaders and to function productively in such roles.

The book’s dynamic approach provides a bridge between explanation and proactive intervention, offering guidance for organizations and institutions aiming to encourage employees’ ascendancy to leadership positions. Through incisive analysis of the psychological and sociological evolution of women’s emergence in leadership roles, the Developing Leader Persona will enable both women and men to don the mantle of leadership with increased confidence.