WHO WE ARE
Mission
Say Leadership, Say Michigan: Accelerating leader development through bold ideas, transformative experiences, and inclusive communities.
Located at the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, the Sanger Leadership Center builds learning communities where those seeking to improve their leadership skills can find support, tools, and mentorship. We believe that leadership is a skill, like reading or math, that everyone can learn. The cornerstone of our teachings is the Michigan Model of Leadership, grounded in 50 years of U-M research.
The Center is known internationally across three domains of excellence:
- Research and bold ideas: Michigan has been the home of leadership research since the 1950s, continuing a tradition of international recognition for academic rigor in organizational science. Our award-winning, multidisciplinary faculty generate cutting-edge scholarship in our Research Lab, which informs the Center’s teaching and learning resources campus-wide and beyond.
- Teaching and learning: With over 14,000 student touchpoints per year, we curate experiences that enhance student and alumni outcomes. Programs like the Leadership Crisis Challenge have been replicated across seven countries and 18 universities, while our foundational leadership program, Collaboration Lab, serves every Michigan Ross academic program to equip them with the team leadership skills they will need during their degree program and after graduation. Beyond workshops, we leverage coaching, digital learning, and communities to educate future leaders.
- Alumni and partnerships: Students learn best at the intersection of academic theory and practice. We maintain deep connections with alumni and corporate partners to bring real-world insights to our students. Through our Sanger Advisory Board and mentorship programs, executive leaders help ensure our programming reflects the environments students will graduate into.
Building on a tradition of excellence, we aim to graduate values-driven leaders who embody the mindset that they can always learn new skills and grow on their leadership journey.
Vision
Our Vision
To be known as the best center for leader development experiences, ideas, and tools which make a better world.
Values
Our Values
What we strive to do each and every day
Values
Cultivate Inclusive Community
The experiences we create for our team and stakeholders are spaces where people feel welcome, safe, and valued in all of their identities. We are committed to sincere curiosity, respect, and understanding different perspectives.
Deliver High-Quality Results
We hold ourselves to a high standard and think long-term about how our team and our Center will impact the world.
Nurture a Growth Mindset
We identify as lifelong learners who are committed to continual improvement and adaptation, both in our programs and as holistic people.
Own Our Work
We each have a critical role to play, but we do not own in isolation. We take responsibility and pride for our work, while we collaborate with others who weigh in with valuable experiences and powerful ideas.
Foster Joy
We strive to create a work environment where people are celebrated and find fulfillment and value in their work.