Our Stories
“Over the past decade, it’s become clear that those who choose to invest in their own professional development as leaders emerge with a stronger, more complete set of skills to lead teams and organizations successfully. There’s no better place than Michigan Ross to help students and alumni develop and refine those leadership skills.”

“Story Lab was one of the most enriching experiences I’ve had. You get to reflect on your life, learn storytelling best practices from professionals, and apply what you’ve learned on the spot. I’d recommend it to anyone looking to tell interesting, impactful stories!”

“Participating in Story Lab was an invaluable experience. As a first-year student, I loved learning from peers across degree programs as they took me on emotional journeys through their narratives. Each story deepened my appreciation for the art of storytelling, and I now pay close attention to the impact of the 5Ps—Pitch, Pace, Pause, Punch, and Projection—when crafting my own. I’m excited to continue engaging with Sanger’s programs to build essential leadership tools.”

“Throughout Legacy Lab, I underwent a personal and professional transformation, gaining invaluable insights into what it truly means to lead with impact and purpose. One of the most pivotal lessons I learned was the importance of prioritizing self-reflection and nurturing authentic relationships as cornerstones of successful leadership.”

“I had a great experience with Leading Inclusive Teams. The program challenged me to push my limit to be a genuine, authentic, value-driven leader.”

“Prior to my participation in Leading Inclusive Teams, I considered myself a competent leader with a basic understanding of inclusion. However, this program unveiled the depth and breadth of what true inclusivity means in a leadership context and its pivotal role in cultivating high-performing teams.”

“I chose to come to Ross for many reasons, one of them being the Sanger Leadership Center offerings. When talking to prospective students, so many people mentioned participating in or attending Story Lab. I attended my first Story Lab and it exceeded all my expectations. I loved being able to support my friends and classmates, while also hearing their personal stories. Story Lab allowed me to get to know my peers better, while also giving them the dedicated space and coaching support to craft an authentic story. I am looking forward to participating and attending over the next two years!”

“My favorite part of the program was having multiple breakout sessions that helped me find my voice, reflect on my own experiences, beliefs, and values, and be able to share them with a diverse set of Michigan students. It was educational, fun, and engaging. If you want to influence your audience, evoke emotions, inspire actions, or simply express yourself better, then Story Lab should be on your must-do list at the University of Michigan!”

“I had a preconceived notion that only native English speakers can craft stories and sound like a natural storyteller. However, Story Lab helped me transform my prejudices into a growth mindset where I started to experience that storytelling is indeed a skill that everyone can learn with the right set of tools and guidance.”

“I am profoundly grateful to the exceptional team at the Sanger Leadership Center for their pivotal role in my journey of growth throughout my Ross Leaders Academy experience. Their unique approach, through a series of action-based activities and reflective sessions, empowered me to view the world through the diverse lenses of my peers.”

“Participating in the Ross Leaders Academy was a highlight of my graduate school experience. The program opened my eyes to new ideas and helped me pinpoint my true values and purpose. RLA offered a safe space to connect with a diverse group of peers, learn the importance of vulnerability and empathy in leadership, and understand that it’s the insights from our experiences, not just the experiences themselves, that truly shape us.”

“As business simulations go, the Leadership Crisis Challenge is one of the world’s best, hands down. It’s a rollercoaster, pressure cooker that brings students into real-world decision-making like none other. It’s innovative, experiential, and unique.”
