Utah is below the national average in terms of women holding leadership roles within nearly all settings (e.g., business, education, government, politics, state boards and commissions, and religious). This is the case most often for two overarching reasons: first, organizational and societal cultures have gendered systems, processes, and practices, and, second, many women themselves do not have the confidence, aspirations, ambition, or perceived knowledge, skills, and abilities to “lean in” to leadership opportunities.
This study focused on the following three research questions:
The research instrument for this study included a number of demographic questions and four open-ended qualitative questions, which consisted of three research questions plus space for additional comments. The study also included a nine-item scale with a variety of questions to measure participants’ perceptions of the value of their experience, particularly as it focused on their views of missions and leadership learning. Participants were recruited through email newsletters, social media posts, announcements in women’s group meetings, distribution lists within The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and invitations to key faculty and administrators at Brigham Young University andLDS Business College.
This research clearly shows that women who serve full-time missions for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints experience powerful developmental experiences and relationships that provide leadership development, learning, and growth, particularly when they are given formal and informal opportunities to lead. This is the first study we have found that has documented the experiences of returned sister missionaries in this way. These findings can assist influencers who care about raising the next generation of leaders to positively impact Utah’s communities and the state as a whole. Though this research was specific in scope, the findings and especially the recommendations are generalizable to a wide variety of settings and situations. As we continue to focus on increasing women’s representation in positions of influence within Utah, it is vital to understand how we can develop and strengthen girls and young women in all arenas, including religious settings. If we do not, Utah will continue to miss many of the benefits that come when men and women work, serve, and lead together.
To learn more about The Leadership Development Gained by Women Serving Full-Time Missions read the entire brief.
This research synopsis, in partnership with scholars from around the state, provides a collection of data points that move the conversation from individuals’ perceptions of Utah women’s experiences toward data-driven realities.
January Newsletter for the Utah Women & Leadership Project at Utah State University.
Women make up a significant proportion of the overall labor force in the state, but many are employed in low-paying jobs with limited room for advancement. This 2023 update includes female employment nationally and in Utah.
