Determination and perseverance also are themes that
pervaded the narrative descriptions of the challenges
faced at various stages of their careers. Rather than turn
away from the challenges, they confronted them, though
sometimes with great difficulty. Rereading the narratives,
they seemed unwilling to consider the possibility that the
challenges could derail their administrative careers. The
difficult transition to the new position as center director
was discussed relative to the demanding expectation
that the Center and its programs be transformed (which
she ultimately did), in addition to widespread faculty
resistance. This was the “loneliest period of her life,”
while the writer put forth the “determination to keep
going when things got difficult, even when it made the
job unpleasant for extended periods of time.” She said,
“As far as I could see at the time, I had no choice but to
make things work.”