Cultural Competency

Abstract

To remain culturally competent is an essential role requirement of administrators, curriculum developers, faculty, and students who drive the mission, value, and goals at academic institutions. Their scope of influence and efficacy is thus enabled through leadership appropriateness and skill. As leadership theory remains constant in the face of an ever-changing higher education landscape, leaders have the opportunity to utilize culturally competent best practices gathered throughout education and career to solve problems and meet the needs of diverse student populations. Furthermore, students are dependent on such competencies as they are likely to model their leaders as they assume leadership roles in their academic and professional environments. The following semi-systematic review offers insight into four leadership styles, charismatic leadership, servant leadership, transformational leadership, and situational leadership. Recommendations grounded in these are included for those responsible for effective cultural competency in academic settings.