14: Looking Toward the Future

This study and book mark the beginning of a larger discussion about leadership opportunities in American society. It questions who is included in the established norms and values that define leadership and highlights disparities in who gets to be a leader. The work calls for a deeper examination of the barriers faced by certain groups and emphasizes the need for more inclusive conversations about leadership. There is a pressing need for more clearly defined language around leadership and its experiences. Additionally, a critical examination of the systemic factors contributing to current outcomes is essential. If practitioners and organizations focus solely on the students who excel to validate their programs, they risk overlooking significant opportunities for growth. Relying solely on successful students to shape strategies for engagement, recruitment, and retention may lead to a decline in these metrics. This approach risks perpetuating current community and leadership systems that do not adapt to the evolving needs of their communities and overlook the importance of including individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences.