The investigation of transformational leadership and resilience within the context of
higher education may assist deans, department chairs, upper-level administrators, and midlevel
managers in leading students, employees, and stakeholders through turbulent and
exciting times. Vaill’s (1996) “white water” can be ridden and future success opportunities
seized. The outcomes of the study could ultimately influence how higher education
administrators and managers facilitate and promote employee professional development and
hiring practices. An assumption of the researcher is that, because of successful higher
education leadership, students will have a better learning environment, faculty will teach
more effectively, and administrators will more efficiently utilize resources. The researcher
also acknowledges effective leadership is one of many items affecting effective teaching,
learning, and working within higher education