In this book, Dr. Hines provides a valuable and unique view into the lives of an increasingly important group of leaders, including the challenges they face, the sacrifices they make, and why they do the work. These are timely topics, given the national attention on diversity and the increasingly political nature of diversity, equity, and inclusion in American higher education, including community colleges. Dr. Hines has opened the door to insights that can help us create the necessary climate to promote and support women of color leaders.

George R. Boggs, President and CEO Emeritus, American Association of Community Colleges, and President Emeritus, Palomar College

In the epilogue to this important book, author Dr. CharMaine Hines reminds us to think of the millions of children of color growing up in America, whose “dreams, rooted in education and intellect, are often dashed when confronted with the harsh reality that society still renders women, particularly women of color, invisible.” By uplifting the voices, experiences, and perspectives of women of color in the community college presidency, Dr. Hines not only offers a counter-narrative to predominantly White, male experiences in that role, but illuminates the hard-fought victories, daily struggles, unique pressures, and physical and emotional tolls levied on the women of color helming our most critical institutions of higher education. In illuminating their stories, Dr. Hines offers guidance for creating structures and policies to better support these exceptional and trailblazing leaders, as well as the next generation of talented female leaders of color.

Carrie B. Kisker, President, Kisker Education Consulting, and Director, Center for the Study of Community Colleges

Voices of Women of Color Community College CEOs is an inspiring and essential read for higher education leaders at every level. CharMaine Y. Hines captures the strength, wisdom, and resilience of women of color who have crossed barriers and led community colleges through transformations. Their stories illuminate challenges overcome and futures envisioned, offering guidance not only for community college leaders but also for women in four-year institutions who will find in these narratives practical strategies, encouragement, and roadmaps for equity-minded leadership.

Christine McPhail, Professor of Practice, John E. Roueche Center for Community College Leadership, Kansas State University

CharMaine Hines has given us a timely and profoundly necessary contribution to the study of leadership, equity, and higher education. Drawing from her record not only as a respected scholar but also as a seasoned community college professional, Dr. Hines brings unmatched insight and authenticity to this work. Through counter-narratives that are both searingly honest and profoundly hopeful, she illuminates the unique challenges that women of color encounter-microaggressions, tokenism, double jeopardy-and the extraordinary reservoirs of resilience, cultural wealth, and fortitude they bring to leadership. For community college leaders who have struggled to feel heard or represented, this book provides both recognition and inspiration. More than a book, it is a guide, an affirmation, and an urgent call to reimagine community college leadership through the voices and wisdom of women of color.

Jorge Burmicky, Assistant Professor, Higher Education Leadership and Policy Studies, Howard University