Book excerpt: The purpose of this study was to develop a profile of female community college presidents by examining their personal characteristics, career paths, mentorship, and professional development. The participants in this study were female community college presidents whose institutions were members of the Association of Community College Trustees. Quantitative data were gathered and analyzed to obtain a demographic profile and provided an update to the research findings of two similar studies about female college presidents and their ascension to presidencies. The results of this study suggested that participants had mentors who influenced their career paths to become presidents. Furthermore, an analysis of the data revealed that participating in professional development activities provided additional skills and opportunities that helped the participants become presidents. Finally, the data suggested that following the traditional career path of faculty member, dean, chief academic officer, and then president was not necessary to become a president. These findings were compared to similar studies. This study adds to the body of literature that examines women in leadership at community colleges. of Advanced Studies, Leadership and Policy The problem examined in this study was the phenomena of disproportionate suspension of African American males in urban high schools. In order to evaluate this phenomenon, a cultural lens was used to understand the experiences that led to suspension of African American males at True Urban High School. Research participants recounted (in their own voices) the suspension experience from precipitating event(s) to culmination. Further, the researcher examined the degree to which teachers' level of cultural proficiency played a role in the imposition of suspension on these students. In order to understand the suspension experiences, a qualitative research design was employed. Survey data from seven African American male participants (four of the seven were purposefully selected for individual interview sessions) and two teachers were analyzed in the completion of this research. -- Abstract.