Diane Kang

Ph.D. Candidate

About Me

I am currently pursuing my Ph.D. in Management at the Gatton College of Business and Economics, University of Kentucky. I anticipate completing my degree by Summer 2024.

My research examines the effects of gender and social networks on leadership perceptions in the workplace. I am particularly interested in how the choice of same-gender friends (friendship “gender homophily”) shapes women’s reputation for leadership in the workplace.

There is ample evidence of a gender gap when it comes to leadership in the workplace. Women are less likely to be perceived as leaders compared to men; and this is one reason that women continue to be underrepresented in leadership positions. A potent reason for this gender gap has to do with the informal networks of men and women in the workplace. These networks provide resources necessary for the enactment of leadership, and they also serve as signals to others of one’s leadership potential.

In my spare time, I enjoy working out at the gym, indulging in movies, and cooking for my family and friends. Lately, I've taken up tennis, and my enthusiasm for it grows with every passing day!

Get in touch at DianeKang@uky.edu

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