The purpose of this study was to identify successful strategies for the preparation, recruitment, and retention of women of color superintendents. The superintendents selected for this study were women of color who worked in urban districts in California, and had had the traditional experience of being a teacher, site administrator, and district administrator. The school board members selected for this study were appointed women of color superintendents who served urban districts. The executive search consultant selected for this study was a former superintendent of color who conducted national superintendent searches that included diverse candidates such as women of color and who had experience in mentoring people of color in educational leadership. The thematic group of eight doctoral researchers used a qualitative method to address the research questions. The research team utilized work by Lee Bolman and Terrence Deal, Jim Collins, and Timothy Waters and Robert Marzano to develop the theory and conceptual framework. To explore the phenomena associated with racism and sexism, theories on critical race theory and intersectionality were introduced. Although this is a qualitative study, surveys were utilized to support the themes generated during the interviews. The surveys and interview guides were developed collaboratively and each researcher conducted in-depth interviews with at least three superintendents, two school board members, and one executive search consultant. Proper preparation is crucial for recruitment and retention of a superintendent. This study showed that (a) having the traditional career path: teacher, site administrator, and district administrator, (b) interviewing with districts with school boards comprised of ethnically diverse men and women, and (c) maintaining frequent communication with the school board are essential aspects of preparation, recruitment, and retention of women of color superintendents. [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.]