Oh geez. I could write a book on this, or at least a whole chapter in a book. From what I've learned in corporate America, is that this is very common and typical. I work for a corporation, it's very political, and they say one thing, yet do another. I've also worked for a university -- a very large, ivy league university -- this university was unionized and I found similar glass ceiling problems. I hate to sound pessimistic, but I find this is very common in just about most work environments... unless you can find an honest non-profit that will actually say what they mean and do what they say.. I have found the only way to move up is to leave that company and move up in another company, meaning, taking a higher level job - and going for that higher level job - with another company. Sounds like you're totally qualified to move up. Others will probably have some good insights for you too, but that's my two cents. Wishing you all the best!!!