Collaboration Lab - Sanger Leadership Center

Overview

Collaboration Lab is a signature leadership development experience for Michigan Ross students focused on building the collaborative skills essential to leading high-performing teams. Students engage in two sessions: Launch, held during orientation, and Accelerate, offered during MAP or Consulting Studio. Together, these sessions provide a structured opportunity to explore personal leadership styles, reflect on team dynamics, and apply evidence-based tools that build trust, strengthen communication, and improve team coordination.

Grounded in the Michigan Model of Leadership, Collaboration Lab is action-oriented, reflective, and designed to meet students where they are—helping them lead more effectively in complex, real-world settings.

This program is generously sponsored by GM.

Skills You’ll Learn

Skills

Collaboration Lab: Launch

Team Communication

I facilitate open team communication

Through experiential activities, reflection, and group discussions, you will develop the skills to create an environment where information flows freely, misunderstandings are minimized, and collaboration is maximized.

Organizational Culture

I foster a value-based organizational culture

You will learn the science of building an intentional culture at Michigan Ross and beyond, including understanding key principles that shape a value-based organizational environment.

Curiosity

I actively seek to learn and grow

You will learn about the Michigan Model of Leadership and the growth opportunities available to you throughout your Ross experience.

Team Creativity

I create innovative solutions through leveraging divergent viewpoints

You will participate in an activity that produces objective data and showcases an increase in overall team creativity and effectiveness when members are encouraged to contribute their unique knowledge and perspectives.

Collaboration Lab: Accelerate

Accountability

I hold myself and others accountable

You will learn how to give and receive feedback to hold yourself and others accountable during your MAP/Consulting Studio Project.

Team Role Clarity

I clearly define team roles

Leveraging RACIs, you will learn how to clearly define team goals to ensure that you are being efficient and bringing the right people along when making decisions.

Team Process-Optimization

I optimize team structures and processes

Utilizing cultural norms, reflection exercises, and peer coaching, you will set and refine team structures and processes to ensure your MAP/Consulting Studio team works effectively and efficiently.

Team Results-Orientation

I ensure the team delivers results

You will learn how to utilize a consulting mindset and OKRs to deliver an inspiring vision for your MAP/Consulting Studio sponsor.

Details & Registration

Details

Key Dates
To be provided by program offices

Time Commitment
Varies by academic program

Participant Requirements
All Ross students

Registration

You will receive information via email from your program office about your orientation, and information about MAP or Consulting Studio from the Office of Action-Based Learning.

Testimonials

Marlee Sacksner, MM ‘26

Marlee Sacksner, MM ‘26

Testimonials

"I learned so much from participating in this program! One thing that stood out most was the conflict resolution session, where I discovered more about my conflict style. The creative activities also allowed me to challenge myself. I truly appreciated this opportunity and look forward to participating in more Sanger offerings!"

All Testimonials

Katherine Klassa, MM ’26

Katherine Klassa, MM ’26

Testimonials

"I truly enjoyed being able to experience Collaboration Lab as an introduction to the program during my Michigan Ross Master of Management orientation. It allowed me to reflect upon my personal experiences with communication, goal development, and conflict while learning from my peers about their skills and abilities. This set of sessions has helped prepare me for the start of my program, as it primed me for team projects and the need for strong leadership, communication, and conflict resolution skills. It has made me excited to dig into other Ross program offerings!"

All Testimonials

Max Wagner, MD/MBA ‘26

Max Wagner, MD/MBA ‘26

Testimonials

“Collaboration Lab set our team up for success from the very beginning of our MAP project. The program helped us build a strong team culture and set clear expectations early on, so we understood each other’s obligations, strengths, and work styles—eliminating surprises down the road. That strong foundation provided structure and support as we worked through the inevitable challenges that come with any MAP experience.”

All Testimonials

Abhy Kheepal, MBA ’25

Abhy Kheepal, MBA ’25

Testimonials

“Participating in Collaboration Lab: Launch was an invaluable part of my orientation. The 360 assessment and workshops—like Launching Your Leadership Development Plan and Managing High-Performing Teams—equipped me with practical tools and insights that helped me navigate my first year with confidence. These sessions strengthened my self-awareness and prepared me to collaborate more effectively and manage team dynamics with intention.”

All Testimonials

Gallery

Scenes from the Program

Students sitting at tables

Poster of the Collaboration Lab Accelerate

IMG_7384-Enhanced-NR

Students working in groups on laptops in a classroom

Students doing a cup stacking exercise

Students sitting around tables in a classroom working with laptops

Students launching and smiling at each other while working on laptops

Students having a serious conversation over their laptops

Classroom of students intently working

NEWS

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