"Thoughtful, intelligent, and probing--going beyond the stereotypes to get at some of the real issues for and experiences of women who are or could be leaders. . . . A wellspring of information--and inspiration--for women in all fields and at all levels."
--Booklist

"What is distinctive about Women of Influence, Women of Vision is the book's presentation of issues.... Astin and Leland show readers how the women in their sample share a passion for justice.... The narrative, at once unsentimental and celebratory, is remarkably affirming."

--Contemporary Psychology

"The interview material provides much suggestive data, the chronologies are useful, and the theoretical suggestions stimulating. A worthwhile addition to any library."

--Choice

"A book for students, for teachers, for scholars, and for any woman who wants to know how the struggles of individual women came to create what is collectively known in this country as the women's movement."

--Ann W. Richards, former governor of Texas

"Astin and Leland go beyond rhetoric and statistical compilations to actual hands-on experiences and accomplishments. . . . What the authors find bodes well for the future."

--Clark Kerr, president emeritus, University of California

"The single best book on women and leadership."

--Warren Bennis, distinguished professor of business administration, University of Southern California, and author of Why Leaders Can't Lead and On Becoming a Leader

Foreword xi
by Charlotte Bunch

Preface xv

The Authors xxiii

1 A New Perspective on Leadership 1

2 In the Spirit of the Times: Three Generations of Women Leaders 15

3 Becoming Leaders: Key Influences and Experiences 41

4 The Common Thread: A Passion for Justice and Social Change 66

5 Leadership for Change: Initiatives and Outcomes 84

6 Key Skills and Strategies of Leaders 107

7 Strains and Costs of Leadership 128

8 Learning from the Past and Looking Toward the Future 139

9 A Leadership Legacy, a Leadership Resource 155

Resource: Background Documents 165

References 193

Index 197

HELEN S. ASTIN is professor of higher education and associate director of the Higher Education Research Institute at the University of California, Los Angeles.

CAROLE LELAND is a leadership consultant in San Diego, Honorary Senior Fellow at the Center for Creative Leadership, and senior associate with the Center for Health Leadership in Oakland.