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Cynthia Mako Robinson, Ph.D. is a 2024 graduate of the PHD Program in Leadership and Change at Antioch University.
Cynthia Mako Robinson at her Dissertation Defense.
From L-R: Dr. J. Beth Mabry. Committee Chair, Dr. Lisa L. Frey, Committee Member, Dr. Amy Rutstein-Riley, Committee Member
Dissertation Committee
- J. Beth Mabry, PhD, Committee Chair
- Amy Rutstein-Riley, PhD, MPA, Committee Member
- Lisa L. Frey, PhD, Committee Member
Keywords
coaching, executives, direct reports, interpretative phenomenology analysis, IPA, leadership, middle-level leaders, management, manager, mattering, positive psychology, positive work relationships, relational-cultural theory, reflexive thematic analysis, supervisor, transformative learning, women’s careers, workplace, women
Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
2024
Abstract
This study provides a vital contribution to the discourse on women’s career trajectories by amplifying the often-overlooked experiences of women middle-level leaders. Positioned at the intersection of strategic and operational functions, these leaders play a vital role in organizations—developing and motivating employees, driving change, and serving as relationship managers and key connectors to senior leadership. Employing an interpretative phenomenological approach, this study explores the lived experiences of 15 accomplished women middle-level leaders, each with over 15 years of service across private, public, and nonprofit sectors in the United States. Grounded in relational-cultural theory (RCT), career theory, positive work relationships, and workplace learning, the findings enrich our understanding of women’s leadership journeys and challenge conventional notions of career success. The study identified one overarching theme, Evolving as a Person, and three group experiential themes: A Journey of Experiences, Support is Energy, and Purpose Over Position. Participants emphasized purpose, values, and spirituality over traditional career advancement, highlighting the importance of connection and mattering, which align with RCT’s growth-fostering relationships and the "five good things." This study reframes career success as a holistic concept, demonstrating that thriving in middle management can align ambition with influence and personal fulfillment. Practical insights are offered for leaders, practitioners, coaches, and organizations to support emerging and experienced leaders seeking meaningful growth, even within middle-level roles. By challenging societal narratives around career and success, this study advocates for a more inclusive and equitable workforce that values thriving at all organizational levels. This dissertation is available in open access at AURA (https://aura.antioch.edu) and OhioLINK ETD Center (https://etd.ohiolink.edu).
Recommended Citation
Mako Robinson, C. (2024). The Power of Her Voice: An Interpretative Phenomenological Study Exploring the Career Experiences of Women Middle-Level Leaders. https://aura.antioch.edu/etds/1085
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Cynthia Mako Robinson
ORCID: #0009-0009-2651-7626
Cynthia, a proud Ohio native, brings over a decade of experience in higher education leadership. She has been instrumental in developing and transforming departments and programs that promote academic excellence and personal growth. With expertise spanning academic and student services, Cynthia consistently creates meaningful learning environments that bridge classroom knowledge with real-world applications.
As a certified coach and member of the International Coaching Federation, Cynthia specializes in career, leadership, and life coaching, guided by positive psychology principles. She is passionate about empowering individuals to realize their full potential and equipping them with the tools and confidence to thrive personally and professionally.
Cynthia’s coaching and leadership philosophy is deeply rooted in her research, which examines the lived experiences of women middle-level leaders. Her work delves into pivotal themes such as growth-fostering relationships, a sense of mattering, and pursuing purpose-driven careers.
Cynthia holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Marketing and a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration from the University of Akron. She earned her Ph.D. in Leadership and Change from Antioch University, further solidifying her commitment to fostering impactful change in individuals and organizations.