D.B.A.  Baker College (Michigan), 2018.
Specialization:  Business administration; Spirituality

Developing successful leaders using spirituality in the workplace
142 pages. UMI #: 10973439
Citation, Abstract & Full text in ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Database

Many leaders fail to see the value that can be added to their organizations by incorporating spiritual leadership practices. This problem affects employees and leadership because it can prevent a consensus that could boost morale and productivity within the organization. Among the contributors to this problem are fear of retaliation and workplace lawsuits, leaders’ lack of integrity, and a lack of leadership skills needed to inspire employees. Many leaders are unaware or have not considered the role spirituality plays in leadership. The study addresses the relationship between spirituality in the workplace and leadership success, the process an organization can use to train leaders to be spiritual, and how to encourage spiritual leadership. The study was supported by the transformational leadership theory, spiritual leadership theory, and the servant leadership philosophy. The research design was a qualitative exploratory case study. This sample consisted of 12 individuals who were in leadership/instructor roles at various Christian universities and leaders in higher level roles at spiritual organizations such as churches. Data were collected during face-to-face interviews. The interviews were transcribed and responses evolved into themes for each research question. The identified themes promote the relationship between spirituality and leadership and suggest a leader’s success can be measured by his or her own spirituality and the ability incorporate this into their style of leadership. Spiritual leaders support employees by offering support that in turn increases organizational morale and productivity. Spiritual leadership theory should be considered as a leadership theory practice. This research is beneficial for organizations, leaders, and employees by promoting successful organizational outcomes, effective leadership practices, and committed productive employees.

• Bernice Folz, Ph.D., Chair
• Peggy Houghton, Ph.D.
• Helen Bojarczyk, Ph.D.