This paper examines the historical perspective of women in higher education, the problems facing women moving into leadership roles, the impact of Title IX on women, and finally the implications of these factors on women's ability to advance in higher education. The paper begins by examining the effect of affirmative action on women's progress, focusing particularly on their advancement to top administrative positions in higher education, and looking for the root of these problems in differences in leadership styles between females and males; disparities in access to professional development, in opportunities for publication and advanced degrees, and in salary. In reviewing the effects of Title IX, the 1972 federal civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination in education programs, on women's athletic programs, the paper finds positive and negative effects: women have benefited from more athletic participation opportunities and more equitable facilities, but a major area of concern involves equality of salaries. A final section of the paper reviews the role that mentors play in women's career development. The paper also offers work shadowing and a sense of humor as factors that can help women advance in their careers. (Contains 30 references.) (CH)