This winter, Ross Leaders Academy (RLA) fellows explored resilience outside of the classroom at the Matthaei Botanical Gardens in Ann Arbor.
In this interactive session led by the Sanger Leadership Center team, fellows examined what resilience means in the context of leadership and identified practical ways to strengthen it in their own lives. The off-campus environment created space for reflection and connection, reinforcing how environment and well-being can support leaders navigating challenge and change.
Fellows engaged in two activities focused on key elements of resilience: well-being and social support. During a guided reflection experience in the greenhouse, students paused to observe their surroundings and consider how restorative environments can support focus, perspective, and recovery. They also built a personal “board of directors,” identifying mentors, advocates, and other trusted individuals who provide support, guidance, and accountability. The exercise encouraged fellows to think intentionally about the relationships that help sustain them as leaders.
Together, these activities highlighted an important idea: resilience is not just about bouncing back from adversity. It is something leaders can actively build through supportive relationships, intentional reflection, and practices that sustain well-being.
RLA is generously supported by the Deloitte Foundation.
