Date of Conferral

8-21-2024

Date of Award

August 2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Mark Gordon

Abstract

While women account for most of the workforce, they remain underrepresented as executives on corporate boards of directors. A review of the literature revealed there is limited research about the experiences of women currently serving on corporate boards while states and regulators pursue the application of structural interventions through gender equity initiatives. The purpose of this general qualitative study was to explore how female board members perceived the effect of gender quota mandates on corporate board membership. The theoretical framework for this study was Zucker’s institutional theory of organizations which is used to examine the influence of external pressures applied to organizations. This research involved semi-structured interviews with seven female participants who held board member positions currently and were familiar with gender equity initiatives. Transcripts were member checked by participants and uploaded into Quirkos for data coding and analysis. The results indicated diversity initiatives have raised the level of awareness of this social justice issue, which in turn has promoted diversity on corporate boards. Participants considered boards stronger with diverse members, unique perspectives, and experiences, that fostered better decision making and improved corporate performance. Diversity pipelines are a priority with an emphasis on networking, mentoring, and a variety of approaches to achieve equity. Ultimately, a balanced approach to gender diversity and the benefits it can bring to companies is still needed. This study may promote positive social change by informing practitioners and policymakers in order to consider what encourages increased female corporate board participation while considering broader effects of gender equity initiatives.

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