This qualitative study examined perceived leadership styles and the chosen career path of female superintendents within a southern state. While teaching is an occupation chosen primarily by women, the role of superintendent is filled predominantly by men. The superintendent of a school district is responsible for meeting the daily operational needs of the district as well as the instructional needs of the students the district serves. A great deal of research has been done which focused on overcoming obstacles and barriers as women move toward becoming superintendents. The research within this study focused on providing insight into lived experiences and perceptions of currently serving female superintendents in public schools within a southern state. The in-depth interviews yielded descriptions that provide aspiring female educational leaders a map to navigate through the predominantly male career path to the superintendency. [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.]