Abstract

Latinas represent one of the quickest-rising labor demographics in the United States (Delamater & Livingston, 2021). However, they remain significantly underrepresented among executive positions (Beaty & Davis, 2012; Piatak et al., 2022; Webb Farley et al., 2021). This research investigates Latina underrepresentation in non-elected leadership roles within municipal governments. The experiences of 15 Latina leaders serving in California as public servants in municipal government in positions such as directors, managers, or executives. Interviews were used to explore the barriers faced by Latina leaders during their career journeys and the approaches they used to overcome them and become successful leaders. The research also provided data on how these Latina leaders defined and measured their leadership and career success and provided advice to the future generation of aspiring Latina leaders. Findings revealed multiple forms of barriers, including sexism, racism, familismo, self-doubt, ageism, politics, and marianismo; several were attributable to intersecting cultural and systemic inequities (Crenshaw, 1991). Participants managed these challenges through culturally responsive strategies such as adaptive and collaborative leadership, emotional and cultural intelligence training, mentor relationships, and support networks (Bordas, 2013, 2023; Heifetz & Linsky, 2002). Being able to define, measure, and track success both subjectively and objectively became key leadership practice. These Latina leaders measured their success not in terms of titles or ranks; it was defined through growth, education, helping others, and leaving behind an example for future leaders (Nexhip et al., 2025; Torres, 2009). Pat’s Latina Leadership Model for Empowering Latina Leadership in Municipal Government was created as the result of this research project, featuring four stages that interlink: Pinpoint Barrier/Challenge, Apply Strategy, Track Success, and Share Knowledge. This framework empowers Latinas in their leadership ascension. It provides municipal agencies, policymakers, leadership educators, and Latinas with a blueprint to facilitate Latina leadership pathways and education via culturally appropriate training and structural reform initiatives. This study adds to the finite literature on Latinas in non-elected public service roles and calls for expanded scholarship on leadership development, organizational equity, and Latina civic impact.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Hispanic American women—Employment; Minority municipal officials and employees; Women public officers; Leadership in women

Date of Award

2026

School Affiliation

Graduate School of Education and Psychology

Department/Program

Psychology

Degree Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctorate

Faculty Advisor

Farzin Madjidi

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