|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
I still remember the moment one of the women I interviewed for my dissertation paused, her voice steady yet filled with conviction. “We’re not just surviving,” she said. “We’re building a path that others can walk.” This sentiment stayed with me long after the research was completed.
My dissertation focused on the lived experiences of women of color navigating leadership roles in predominantly white spaces. Through these conversations, I gained invaluable insights and a profound commitment to reshaping what leadership, success, and representation look like for Latinas in the US.
The stories I heard revealed a shared resilience and ambition tempered by barriers unique to these women yet familiar in the broader narrative of Latina professionals. This research was the catalyst that defined my work as an educator, coach, and advocate. It deepened my focus on uplifting Latinas in higher education and in their pursuit of doctorate degrees—a demographic that currently stands at only 1 percent of all doctorate holders in the US.
These findings did more than shape my career; they drove me to act. They became the foundation of my coaching and research initiatives aimed at helping Latinas not only reach higher academic and professional levels but also thrive in spaces that often challenge their identities.
Latinas make up a mere 1 percent of doctorate degree holders in the United States. This statistic is a stark reminder of the gaps that persist in our educational and professional systems. As an educator, researcher, and career coach specializing in organizational leadership, I see the stories behind these numbers every day. My mission is to acknowledge these disparities and actively work toward solutions that shift this narrative and amplify the presence of Latinas in academia and corporate leadership.
Through my work, I provide targeted coaching, professional development, and research that not only focuses on the advancement of Latinas but also explores the profound benefits that increased educational attainment brings to corporate America. When Latinas succeed, entire sectors reap the rewards: diversity of thought, resilient leadership, and a commitment to inclusive, community-centered growth.
The Numbers Behind the Challenge
The National Center for Education Statistics reveals that while educational attainment among Hispanic students has steadily increased, the path to doctoral-level education remains fraught with challenges. For Latinas, these challenges often intersect with cultural expectations, economic barriers, and a lack of academic representation. Each step of their educational journey demands resilience and a support system that understands these unique hurdles.
Despite these barriers, when Latinas reach advanced levels of education and leadership, their contributions are transformative. According to Pew Research, Latinas with doctorate degrees are positioned to influence policy, innovate within industries, and inspire future generations.
However, the path to reaching the 1 percent—and pushing beyond it—requires deliberate action and support.
Empowering through Coaching and Research
My approach blends evidence-based coaching with research focused on understanding and dismantling the systemic barriers that Latinas face. By offering career development tailored to the unique experiences of Latinas in academia and corporate spaces, I aim to equip them with the tools and the confidence to take on leadership roles. From facilitating leadership workshops to one-on-one coaching, my work is designed to amplify their voices and solidify their presence in spaces where they have historically been underrepresented.
Beyond coaching, my research examines the intersectionality of identity in professional settings, highlighting how policies and organizational culture can either uplift or hinder Latina professionals. I aim to create a ripple effect that extends beyond individual coaching relationships by presenting these findings at conferences and contributing to scholarly publications.
Why Elevating Latinas Elevates Corporate America
The benefits of increasing Latina representation at the highest levels of education and corporate leadership extend far beyond the individuals themselves. Research from McKinsey & Company underscores that diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts, demonstrating higher profitability and innovation. Latinas bring a unique combination of adaptability, community-oriented leadership, and cultural intelligence to the table—qualities that are invaluable in today’s globalized economy.
Corporations that prioritize the elevation of Latinas enrich their leadership pipelines and foster environments that reflect and respect the diverse communities they serve. This inclusivity can lead to better decision-making, more comprehensive strategies, and a company culture that attracts top talent from all backgrounds.
A Call to Action
If we are to see the 1 percent grow to 5 percent, 10 percent, or higher, a collective effort is needed. This requires investment from educational institutions, policy reform, mentorship from existing leaders, and support from corporate entities that recognize the value of diverse educational attainment. It also requires Latinas to know that they are seen, supported, and encouraged to break through historically insurmountable barriers.
The work I do is just one piece of this puzzle. By sharing stories of success, creating spaces for growth, and contributing to research that advocates for systemic change, I strive to contribute to a movement that reshapes what leadership looks like in the United States.
The 1 percent may be where we start, but it is far from where we should stay.
—
Dr. Brandi R. Muñoz is a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership, dedicated career coach, and researcher committed to uplifting Latinas in academia and corporate leadership. With over fifteen years of experience in human resources, career development, and organizational change, she specializes in guiding professionals through career transitions, leadership development, and strategic growth. Her work emphasizes empowerment, inclusion, and actionable strategies for overcoming systemic barriers. You can connect with Dr. Muñoz at [email protected] or linkedin.com/in/brandirmunoz.
