Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Program/Concentration

Community College Leadership

Committee Director

Mitchell R Williams

Committee Member

Alan Schwitzer

Committee Member

David F. Ayers

Abstract

This quantitative, descriptive study examined the professional development needs of deans, associate deans, and directors in the California Community Colleges System. Using the American Association of Community Colleges leadership competencies, the study analyzed how mid-level leaders rated the importance of leadership tasks and their ability to perform them. It also compared results by gender, race or ethnicity, years in the role, district type, and preferred professional development methods.

Data were collected with a 47-item, fixed-format survey using Qualtrics. The sample was a nonprobability quota drawn from 17 California community colleges (N = 71). Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including t-tests and analyses of variance, identified gaps between perceived importance and ability across leadership domains. The instrument’s reliability and validity were established through pilot testing, expert review, and internal consistency measures.

The study found significant gaps in all leadership domains. The largest gaps were in equity and cultural responsiveness, conflict management, communication, and leadership practices. Experience in the role reduced some gaps in strategy and governance, but equity and cultural responsiveness remained challenging for all groups. These results give a statewide baseline and show the need for focused, equity-driven, and interactive professional development for California community college leaders.

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DOI

https://doi.org/10.25777/am4z-vy70

ISBN

9798197809810

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