This case study focuses on the leadership preparation of self-identified minority professionals in the metro area. Findings of the study indicate a difference between leadership development, which is the experience of an individual's leadership style and leadership preparation, which is the process of accomplishing benchmarks in an individual's growth. The qualitative study reveals that participants identify these two concepts differently. It unveils that leadership preparation is a necessary pipeline for professional minorities to enter the leadership arena, which provides an avenue for a network, a foundation for next generations, and platform to engage others in the minority experience. [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.]