MGMT 3009: BENNIS LEADERSHIP ACCLERATOR

 The Bennis Leadership Accelerator seminar, led by Dr. Donna Chrobot-Mason and Dean Marianne Lewis, was an intellectually challenging course designed to develop inclusive, principle-driven, and innovative leaders. Rooted in the teachings of Warren Bennis, we engaged in multi-disciplinary research, studied various leadership role models, and participated in personal reflection to understand our strengths, values, biases, and blind spots. The course also included team projects, where we interviewed diverse leaders to learn about their problem-solving approaches and integrated these insights with leadership theories and concepts discussed in class. My team focused on the leadership and motivation differences between leaders in the for-profit and non-profit areas.  

 

Our class was mixed across different colleges - not only business students - so I learned to lead across differences, engage diverse followers, and foster an inclusive work environment. This experience has also profoundly impacted me by increasing my self-awareness and understanding of effective leadership. It reinforced the idea that leaders are made, not born, and that continuous learning and adaptation are crucial. The skills and knowledge gained from this seminar have prepared me to be a proactive, inclusive leader, committed to fostering positive change in my teams and organizations.

 

Lastly, this course taught me a valuable lesson in self-compassion. After completing over 60 credits with a perfect 4.0 GPA, receiving my first A- in this seminar was initially disappointing. It marked the first time my flawless academic record was disrupted, and I struggled with self-criticism. However, this experience ultimately helped me grow. It reminded me that perfection is not the essence of true leadership or personal development. Instead, embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and continuing to strive for excellence are what truly define a successful leader.