Title
Date of Award
Summer 2013
Degree Type
Professional Project - Restricted
Degree Name
Masters in Leadership Studies
Department
College of Professional Studies
Abstract
Utilizing data collected from both qualitative and quantitative research methods, this study analyzed the most effective components of a leadership development program as it relates to success-driven student-athletes at Marquette University. A nonprobability purposive sample was used, which was made up of the 280 varsity student-athletes at Marquette University, ranging in age from 18-to-24. A nonprobability expert sampling of college athletic administrators and Marquette University coaches was also tested. The primary methods utilized were a 17-question online survey completed by the student-athletes, while industry professionals and Marquette University coaches were invited to participate in structured interview sessions with the primary investigators. The interviews were conducted in person or via phone. The findings, collected in both the surveys and interviews, confirmed that the establishment of a student-athlete leadership academy at Marquette University was a legitimate and welcome endeavor, while at the same time identifying the components most likely to make the long-term success of the programming a probability. The conclusion of the study features a proposed annual program to be implemented by Marquette University’s administrators.