Motherscholar and MotherLeader

Abstract

For students in higher education, the pandemic brought about some lasting educational changes. There are more online courses and program options, more social-emotional support services, and increased resources to support student learning. Conversely, faculty lives are very similar to what they were before the pandemic, with some notable work-creep. In addition to traditional responsibilities, professors are doing more virtual meetings and online teaching, and devising ways to support students as they find their new normal. For motherscholars, this back-to-normal-plus-extras environment can be devastating. While the refrain to “get back to normal” gave many people comfort, “normal” wasn't such a great space for academic mothers in the first place. Has anything changed for motherscholars and MotherLeaders in higher education post-pandemic? If things haven't changed, then what does that say, about academic mothers and their value in higher education? This chapter will explore this issue and call for an implementation of much-needed practice and policy changes in the academy.