Ignatian Spirituality and Leadership Practice Among Filipino Jesuit Higher Education Institution Leaders: A Grounded Theory Study

Date of Award

5-1-2023

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy in Leadership Studies, major in Organization Development

First Advisor

Edna P. Franco, PhD

Abstract

The integration of spirituality in the workplace has caused a paradigm shift in how leadership is perceived, emphasizing the importance of spiritual leadership in achieving effectiveness. This spiritual leadership approach sheds light on how leaders, whose leadership is influenced by spirituality, prioritize values and goals, develop their own charism, and motivate their organization’s members to fulfill their mission. Accordingly, the current study aims to explain how Ignatian spirituality is embodied in the leadership practices of Filipino Jesuit Higher Education leaders. The research utilized grounded theory as a strategy to explore the experiences of ten leaders selected via purposive sampling. The study adhered to the primary methodological features of Glaserian grounded theory. The findings suggest that leaders integrate Ignatian Spirituality through the following leadership moments and movements: (1) responding to the call, (2) finding one’s anchors, (3) understanding one’s role, (4) attending to the Person of the leader, (5) finding God in all things, (6) embracing the Mission, and; (7) growing in discernment. This emergent theory model suggests that by incorporating the elements of Ignatian leadership, leaders can develop the necessary capacities and capabilities to serve the Mission and make a positive impact in the service of the Mission.

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