American universities and colleges—historically Black and minority colleges and universities, in particular—experience leadership instability for the most part. This paper explored and defined leadership concept and practices, with prime focus on academic leadership preparation factors common in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) member institution presidents. What are the reasons why some presidents of HBCU member institutions are more effective than others? What values could development of preparation factors add to the higher institutions' top leaders' ability? What strategic steps need to be taken to ensure strengthening of the qualities of future leaders of academic higher institutions? These questions and more were addressed in this study. Institutions are driven to perpetual instability often due to high leadership turnover. Higher education institution presidents are charged with safeguarding core mission, which include excellence in teaching, outstanding research programs, competitive academic programs, as well as providing nurturing environment for economic and social growth. The focus of this study was first to explore preparation factors common among successful leaders of institutions of higher education, especially Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Quantitatively, t test and chi-square analysis examined relationships between higher education institution leaders' success and preparation factors. Findings from this study will in no small measure assist in developing a leadership framework for academic success and viability for the 21st-century higher education institutions