The Center for Leadership and Strategic Thinking at the University of Washington Foster School of Business helps accelerate the development of Foster students by offering resources, fully integrating with core curriculum, leveraging natural learning opportunities and exposing students to leaders in the Seattle and alumni community.
In the classroom, in study teams, and through outside panels and speakers, we link leadership with strategic thinking to promote integrative learning and the capacity to see problems from multiple perspectives. By producing the most current and well-researched methods and models, we ensure that Foster graduates are leaders who think differently and make a difference in the face of complex, unstructured, real-world problems.
CLST currently offers several student programs including:
Fritzky Leadership Fellows connects a select group of second year full-time MBAs with teams of first-year students. Each Fellow coaches and advises a team of first-year MBA students to enhance leadership and strategic thinking skills and works closely with each other and with the Leadership Center’s coaching staff in a supportive network to enhance their coaching skills. Visit the Leadership Fellows homepage for application information.
Undergraduate Research Assistant Program – The CLST undergraduate research program provides a unique opportunity for University of Washington undergraduate students to get hands-on experience working in leadership research and leadership development program administration. Each year the CLST recruits and selects a small group of undergraduates who have demonstrated an interest in further developing their research skills, while deepening their understanding of the field of organization and leadership development.
In the program, students work alongside CLST staff on applied research projects and leadership development programs. Students learn about the multiple components involved in running leadership development programs, will deepen their understanding of leadership models/theory, and will develop and strengthen basic research and quantitative analysis skills. Typical activities include conducting literature reviews, quantitative and qualitative data analysis, and providing assessment/survey support. Students may also be involved in preparing workshop materials, assisting with event planning and support, and preparing reports for program participants. Students also engage in regular lunch-and-learn sessions with CLST staff to provide additional training and opportunities to discuss research theory, methods, and applications to the work of the CLST.
Students interested in being involved in the CLST Undergraduate Research Program should contact Kaeleen Drummey ([email protected]).