In a world characterized by increased volatility and uncertainty, developing leaders who can effectively navigate crises is not just an advantage—it is a necessity. That is why the Leadership Crisis Challenge (LCC), created at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business by Michael and Susan Jandernoa Professor of Management and Organizations Sue Ashford—a globally recognized expert on leadership and organizational change—has quickly gained traction in higher education and organizations worldwide.
A Model for Impactful Leadership Education
Launched in 2008, the LCC gives students the chance to step into the role of senior executives facing high-stakes crises. Over the course of the simulation, teams respond to breaking news, social media updates, and urgent stakeholder calls—all while working with incomplete information. They must craft and present their strategy to distinguished alumni, faculty, journalists, and the public, who provide real-time feedback.
More than 400 U-M students participate in the LCC each year, but the program’s reach extends far beyond Ann Arbor. This immersive approach has engaged learners at other campuses and organizations across the globe for more than a decade.
Impact Reaching Beyond Ann Arbor
This year, more than 500 students from universities such as Cornell, the University of Miami, and Chapman University took part in LCC experiences adapted for their campuses. Institutions tailor the program using real-world cases developed by U-M faculty and industry experts to match their learners’ needs. At Israel’s Reichman University, for example, the Arison School of Business integrates the LCC into MBA coursework on crisis leadership.
The program’s research-based design also appeals to organizations developing early-career talent. For the first time this summer, Rocket Companies brought the LCC to its internship program, engaging 60 interns in a two-day simulation. Senior leaders served as judges and mentors, offering feedback on strategic thinking and executive presence.
“The LCC accelerated high-quality connections and stretched interns’ leadership skills,” said Don Beckwith, Senior Business Program Manager at Rocket. “It shifted their perspective on how strategy and communication change depending on the audience and created a space for competition and transformation through action-based learning.”
Inspiring Educators and Sustaining Innovation
Educators have found the LCC both impactful and adaptable. The Sanger Leadership Center invites educators from around the world to observe its annual event each January. Last year, representatives from DePauw University and Chapman University attended, bringing insights back to their campuses. Chapman’s recent $1 million gift recognized its commitment to integrating innovative programs like the LCC, and DePauw is preparing to host its first challenge in February 2026.
“The LCC was incredible—meticulously designed to immerse students in a high-impact learning experience,” said Rebecca Alexander, Director of the Sanger Leadership Initiative at DePauw University. “It pushed students to collaborate deeply, make ethical decisions with messy, incomplete information, and communicate effectively with multiple audiences, all while staying true to their values. We cannot wait to bring it to our campus.”
Bringing the Challenge to Your Campus or Organization
The transformative power of the LCC lies in its ability to simulate real-world complexity while fostering a culture of action, reflection, and growth. To learn more about bringing this program to your university or organization, contact rossleaders@umich.edu to connect with the Sanger Leadership Center team.