Foundations of Leadership (FOL) is a cohort-based leadership development course. It is available to supervisors, managers or team leads who:

• Supervise at least one regular staff or faculty member
• Are new to the university and in a supervisory  position, or are a current U-M employee that is new to supervision
• Have up to three years of supervisory or management experience

The content focuses on expanding the capacity of individuals to perform in leadership roles. It is based on five key U-M expectations:

• Communication
• Coach and Develop Talent
• Foster and Promote Multi-Faceted Teams
• Lead Innovation and Change
• Solve Problems

Course Format

FOL consists of six facilitator-led sessions and multiple e-learning components. The sessions are designed to increase awareness of leadership models and time-tested principles. There are also several skill-building opportunities. These will ensure the concepts can be applied in the workplace.

You will learn to:

• Develop values-based leadership practices that promote positive organizational culture 
• Determine how legal obligations apply to specific situations
• Utilize university policy resources
• Adapt communication styles and resolve conflicts using effective techniques
• Use performance management strategies to support team members' growth and development
• Leverage the U-M 7-Stage Change model to guide teams through change and transition 

You will benefit by:

• Enhancing team cohesion and performance
• Cultivating a thriving workplace culture 
• Advancing your personal leadership development
• Upholding ethical standards and ensuring accountability

Audience:

Ann Arbor campus (including Medical School) leaders who are new to U-M or their supervisory role with at least one direct report who is a regular staff or faculty member (not including temporary or student employees or interns)

Michigan Medicine supervisors (excluding Medical School) should refer to the Michigan Medicine Foundations of Leadership program.      

Program Notes:

Application Process

Interested leaders must complete a brief application. This includes sharing the name and contact information of their direct supervisor. The direct supervisor will be asked to verify the applicant's eligibility.

Attendance Policy

Due to the course structure, attendance is closely monitored. You are allowed one excused absence. If you think you will miss more than one session, we recommend that you register for a different session. 

You can email your questions about the Foundations of Leadership (FOL) program to:

• Ann Arbor Campus FOL: [email protected]
• Michigan Medicine FOL: [email protected]