Many community colleges have an opening for the position of president and need to choose the best candidates to lead their organizations successfully in a dynamic and diverse higher education landscape. A review of existing literature revealed studies that have looked at programs preparing community college presidents, perspectives from community colleges presidents, and views from those hiring community college presidents. This qualitative study endeavored to understand what higher education professionals working at a community college in Virginia perceived to be the desirable leadership characteristics and qualification for community college presidents. Higher education professionals at a community college in Virginia were interviewed. Analysis of the data revealed six themes concerning the desirable characteristics of community college presidents. These themes were: (a) having a doctorate is not necessary but is preferred; (b) it is necessary to be surrounded by honest, capable upper administration and faculty who are given authority and support to accomplish goals; (c) community connection is required, including experience and sympathy with the diverse demographics of the student body, faculty, and other stakeholders; (d) some business, industry or other noneducation background experience along with some prior leadership experience is needed; (e) experience in teaching is extremely important; and (f) an adaptive or servant leadership style is preferred. These findings could lead to further study and to useful considerations of characteristics and qualification of community college presidents. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]