Authentic Leadership and the First Woman to Run the Boston Marathon
Kathrine Switzer’s historic run in the 1967 Boston Marathon teaches profound lessons in authentic leadership. At a time when women were barred from participating, she defied the norms and ran the race, despite facing opposition—even physical attempts to stop her. Her resilience and determination are hallmarks of authentic leadership, which thrives not on power, but on integrity, courage, and staying true to one’s values.
Authentic leadership requires leading with purpose and conviction, even when obstacles arise. Switzer’s actions not only challenged gender barriers but also opened the door for systemic change. This mirrors the role of leadership in organizations—creating space for innovation by challenging outdated assumptions and pushing for progress. Leaders must not shy away from difficult decisions or disruptions, but instead, lean into them to foster growth and inclusivity.
In my work, I’ve seen how authenticity fosters trust and inspires teams. Staying true to one’s vision, even when it challenges conventions, builds a culture of integrity. Switzer’s story reminds us that leadership is about persistence, not perfection. It’s about the willingness to step forward, take risks, and lead by example.
For organizations, the lesson is clear: authentic leadership empowers others to step up, innovate, and challenge the status quo, which is essential in building a future that embraces diversity and fosters change.