In a recent opinion piece for the Montreal Gazette, Concordia University deans Anne-Marie Croteau, Annie Gérin, and Pascale Sicotte have shed light on an alarming trend: the decline of women in leadership positions within academia since the start of the pandemic. This revelation serves as a critical wake-up call for all of us, especially those in positions of influence and decision-making in the academic world. The deans’ observations highlight a fragile progress that cannot be taken for granted. As they rightly point out, the decline in women's representation in leadership is not due to a singular cause but stems from a complex web of factors. These include systemic biases, lack of mentorship, and the ever-persistent challenge of balancing professional and personal life. This piece is a crucial reminder that while strides have been made towards gender equality in leadership, these gains are not immune to erosion. It prompts a reflection on the inclusivity of our institutions and the measures we're taking (or failing to take) to support and nurture female leadership. The call for mentorship programs, policy changes to support work-life balance, and the recognition of diverse leadership styles is not just timely but necessary. These measures are not only about fairness but are strategic imperatives for the enrichment and advancement of our academic institutions. Diverse leadership brings diverse thought, fostering innovation and resilience. As a community of academics, professionals, and leaders, we must take this moment to reflect critically on our roles in either contributing to or dismantling these barriers. How are we actively supporting the women around us? Are our institutions genuinely inclusive, or are there policies that inadvertently penalize or deter women from leadership roles? What can we do differently, starting today, to ensure a more equitable future? This piece is a call to action for all of us to engage in meaningful change. Let’s work towards creating an environment where the next generation of women leaders is nurtured, supported, and thriving. The decline observed by Deans Croteau, Gérin, and Sicotte is not just their challenge; it's ours. As we share this reflection, let’s commit to being part of the solution, ensuring that the progress made towards gender equality in leadership continues to grow, not diminish.
"On International Women’s Day, instead of talking about female leadership, we propose the term 'benevolent leadership,' because its characteristics are not exclusively gendered. It’s up to all of us to reorient our approach to foster the development of each individual." Anne-Marie Croteau, PhD, CDir, Annie Gerin and Pascale Sicotte - respectively dean of Concordia University - John Molson School of Business, Faculty of fine arts and Faculty of arts and science - wrote this op-ed about #womeninleadership. #internationalwomensday #internationalwomensday2024 Concordia University
