Inventing ourselves: an informed essay for Black female scholars in educational leadership

Black women and men often work in academic spaces that were not made for them, where they are often viewed as outsiders and in many cases where they find little support for their efforts. But being a Black female professor in a predominantly white institution can sometimes be especially challenging. The purpose of this essay is to provide a brief recounting of some of the author's experiences as a Black female graduate student and professor, and discuss the imperative for: (a) developing a strategic plan that will lead to a successful career in the academy; and (b) building and sustaining mentoring relationships. The article concludes with some thoughts about getting over and keeping our eyes on the prize.