University of Michigan Barger Leadership Institute

We are thrilled to announce our 2025 BLI Alumni Panel happening on Friday, March 28 from 4–6 PM in the Michigan League Vandenberg Room. This year’s panel and networking session will center around the theme of fostering wellness and resilience during times of transition. We’re excited to welcome Ethan Hopper, Carlena T., Amy Saslekova, Shekinah Singletery, and Micalah Webster, MSW, MHSA back to our BLI community. Each BLI alumni brings a unique perspective and breadth of experience across sectors. Together, they will reflect on navigating identity, pivoting professional pathways, and adapting to post-grad life. The evening will begin with a light reception at 4:00 PM, followed by the alumni panel and Q&A at 4:30 PM. The event will conclude with a networking session from 5:30 to 6:00 PM. Register here: https://lnkd.in/evp7TYzD

#givingblueday Bonus content! BLI alumni + student connection in action! On the latest episode of the?Break Away podcast,?BLI students Samantha Howden and Emily Williams welcomed BLI alum Brandon Bond, to?discuss the?topic of Fostering Well-Being and Resilience for students at Michigan. Brandon Bond is the LSA Mental Health & Well-Being Project Lead in the LSA Dean's Office, University of Michigan, where he spearheads strategic and systemic public mental health initiatives. Together the trio discussed Michigan hustle culture, how students can build healthy habits to be better leaders, and the importance of campus leadership to support well-being and resilience initiatives on campus. (https://lnkd.in/gQCQSDDC) Join us today with a gift of $25 as we continue building something truly remarkable! (https://lnkd.in/gmQd2uT6)

It's #givingblueday! At the BLI, we’ve been working to create memorable alumni engagement opportunities that blend lifelong leadership learning with plenty of fun. We’ve hosted exciting experiences like podcasts, storytelling workshops, Detroit panels, D.C. networking events, and epic Homecoming weekends. But now we need your help to keep the alumni magic alive. While undergrads are covered, we lack funds for these collaborative alumni experiences. By giving today, you’re not just donating funds—you’re powering programs that offer high-touch opportunities. We’re talking about authentic interactions, meaningful mentorship, and a chance to keep the BLI community thriving. Join us today with a gift of $25 as we continue building something truly remarkable.

BLI lecturers Fatema Haque and Cristina E. are featured in a new episode of BreakAway, a podcast by The Michigan Leadership Collaborative. The pair discussed personal experiences with failure, namely its importance in shaping their leadership. Throughout the episode, Eckhoff and Haque discussed how failure can build resilience and model vulnerability and authenticity. #Leadership #Podcast #FailForward

In the latest episode of Break Away - listen to University of Michigan Barger Leadership Institute educators, Fatema Haque and Cristina E., as they talk about failure and how residing in negative capability can help you grow, build resilience, and model authenticity and vulnerability in your leadership!

During the University of Michigan's fall break, the Barger Leadership Institute hosted its annual Mindful?Leader?Fall?Retreat. BLI Students and Staff traveled to Brooklyn, Michigan, for the inclusive retreat. This three-day long trip provided students with an overview of the concepts and practices of mindful leadership, the Mindful Mindset, contemplative practices, and peace leadership. Christian Loza, a BLI Applied Leadership Fellow, wrote that the Mindful Leader Retreat was "far more than a weekend getaway," calling it an "enriching journey that allowed students to relax, reflect, and bond." We encourage you to read Christian's personal reflection linked below!

On October 1st, the Barger Leadership Institute welcomed Ira Chaleff for an incredible BLI Speaker Event. Chaleff brought a unique perspective to the Institute, discussing the importance of followership theory. Having spent much of his career in the political sector, Chaleff led a nonpartisan conversation about understanding the rise of tyrannical political leaders on both the political left and right. He also brought insights from his new book 'To Stop a Tyrant: How Courageous Political Followers Make a Crucial Difference.' His thought-provoking insights left attendees with a deeper understanding of their roles as followers and the impact they can have in shaping effective leadership. #Followership #Leaders #LeadershipDevelopment

This summer, we are thrilled to announce the release of Ram Mahalingam’s Michigan Online course! In Mindfulness, Dignity, and the Art of Human Connection, participants learn to lead a mindful life by cultivating a sense of dignity and creative engagement. Engage in art, meditation, and writing activities to foster a more profound understanding of dignity within oneself and others while refining emotional regulation skills. Deepen your connection to self, others, and the world around you — https://myumi.ch/qVQ7N

The BLI is #hiring! We are looking for a new team member in a new role. This full-time position (with summer seasonal leave) is for someone interested in creating a welcoming, fun, and enriching community for undergraduate students. As this is a new position, it's also a perfect fit for anyone seeking to get creative and develop programs, events, and procedures from the ground up. https://lnkd.in/eNgwq8ct

Our BLI Senior members had the opportunity to attend the Detroit Tigers Game, hosted in the Barger Family Suite! This was an amazing way to celebrate our wonderful Seniors and enjoy some quality time together!