Strategy and Leadership in Transformational Times

Prepare to lead in the moments that shape history.

Strategy and Leadership in Transformational Times (SALTT) challenges students to develop and apply the concepts of strategic thinking and leadership, grounded in critical thinking and teamwork. The seminar will also help students think about problems and challenges in a different, more proactive way, and learn to identify the leadership skills necessary for bringing about change.

This spring, under the direction of Susan Eisenhower, SALTT students will explore resilience in leadership, drawing on the example of Dwight D. Eisenhower as an army general and supreme commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force during World War II.

Applicants will be asked to propose a project that focuses on one of the many complex challenges confronting our society locally, regionally, nationally, or internationally: climate change/energy, geopolitical tensions, national security, economic development, science and technology, or any other topic they find worthy of exploration. Students will be asked to “pitch” these projects in the application process through the written application and an oral interview with Susan Eisenhower. Successful students will foreshadow the strategic and critical thinking skills required of SALTT participants.

A wide range of projects, spanning topic areas, will be considered in the application process. However, students may be asked to alter or adopt another project once the program commences in the spring. Throughout the program, students will hone their projects by drawing on teachings about resilient leadership from history. They will observe first-hand how America’s top policymakers and diplomats look at the strategic challenges our country faces every day. Students will then use the lessons learned to inform their projects, which they are required to present at the end of the semester.

This program is best suited for upper class students of all majors.

Program Calendar:

• Return to campus: Wednesday, January 17^th
• Orientation: Thursday, January 18^th – Friday, January 19^th
• Session 1: Friday, February 23^rd  
• Session 2 (Spring Break): Wednesday, March 13^th – Friday, March 15^th
• Session 3: Friday, April 19^th