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Empowering professionals to handle tough leadership challenges

In May 2024, we welcomed 10 participants in the annual Leadership, Ethics, Executive Decision-Making (LEED): Executive Leadership Program, a weeklong, in-person initiative designed to elevate essential leadership skills. Created in partnership between the Leeds School of Business and the Center for Leadership at the ���񱦵�, the program brings together mid-career and senior professionals looking to gain new perspectives, learn from other leaders, manage uncertainty, navigate change and encourage collaboration.

“Multiple classes pushed me out of my comfort zone (in a positive way), which will have a fundamental impact on the way I lead." - Grant Wilson, area manager at Archrock

Each day of the program featured two modules on core functions of leadership and communication, facilitated by Leeds and the Center for Leadership faculty. Throughout the week, participants explored such themes as crisis management, ethical leadership and emotional intelligence. Faculty led discussions in a Socratic method, guiding conversations while encouraging participants to share ideas and perspectives. The small, intimate group settings fostered deep discussions and built trust, creating a psychologically safe environment for participants to be their authentic selves. 

“I took concrete actions away from these classes that I can use daily in my leadership role,” said Grant Wilson, area manager at Archrock. “Multiple classes pushed me out of my comfort zone (in a positive way), which will have a fundamental impact on the way I lead.”

Participants in this year’s LEED: Executive Leadership Program came from across Colorado including the western slope, and from a variety of industries, including technology and health care. Four Leeds staff members were awarded full scholarships funded by the Leeds dean’s cabinet to attend the program. “This is such a wonderful opportunity, and I am so thankful for the school’s continuous support to help me grow and be the best leader I can be for my team,” said Camille Colquitt, faculty services support manager.

“This course was extremely [well] put together and provided me with an exceptional amount of information I will be able to use in my professional and personal development,” said Jessica Menu, director of the emergency department at Grand River Hospital District. “The instructors were very passionate about each topic, which allowed me to remain engaged. I feel this course has changed me as a person and leader.”

The program concluded with coaching sessions that addressed key problem statements provided by participants, such as managing up, managing down, integrating inherited teams and addressing peer conflicts. Leeds faculty members Salma Shukri, Joshua Nunziato and Tony Kong coached small groups helping participants identify practical, real-world solutions.

The LEED: Executive Leadership program is set to return for open enrollment in May 2025. Leeds also offers custom programs in executive leadership. Learn how Leeds incorporated executive leadership into training with the Graduate School of Banking and contact us on exploring a custom program that is right for your organization.