What Is the Experience Like of Leaving a College Presidency of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America: A Phenomenological Study

This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of Lutheran college presidents leaving the presidency. The purpose of this research was to gain a deeper understanding of the experiences of former college presidents who were associated with Evangelical Lutheran Churches in America (ELCA) colleges. Research on university and college presidents has focused mainly on those who lead large universities or small community colleges. The themes and meanings that emerged in this research are discussed in light of three phases: pre-exit, exit, and post-exit. The results of this research include significant and meaningful lessons learned by these former presidents that may be helpful for current and future college presidents. Implications for practice and future research are provided.