We may dream of a better world, but creating meaningful change requires making a tangible impact in the here and now. This course at the University of Humanistic Studies delves into a people-centered approach to leadership, anchored in a robust ethical foundation.
As Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Not everybody can be famous. But everybody can be great, because greatness is determined by service.” True leadership is about building on this greatness—becoming a cornerstone of integrity and impact for others to rely on. Leadership is an art determined by service. How can emerging leaders navigate their roles with a moral compass that fosters human flourishing and sustainability?
In today’s globalized world, international leaders must embrace multiculturalism and diversity. This course brings together participants from diverse backgrounds, fostering the exchange of values and cultures. The short program is designed for young professionals who are growing into or preparing for leadership roles within their organizations. It uniquely integrates humanism, meaning-making, and ethics with the latest developments in organizational studies and leadership theory.
The course is carried by experts in the field, with a proven track record in research and consulting. They all regularly publish both in academic journals and for a professional audience. The sessions are unambiguously interactively designed, with experiences and dilemmas of participants serving as learning points.
The course will provide key insights into topics such as:
| Day / time | Topic | Teacher |
| 7-07-25, 10h-12h | Ethical reflection and decision making | Prof. dr Patrick Nullens |
| 7-07-25, 14-16h | Integrity of organisations | Prof. dr Rob van Eijbergen |
| 8-07-25, 10h-12h | Dialogical leadership and change | Prof. dr ir Gerda van Dijk |
| 8-07-25, 14h-16h | The conditions of meaningful exchange | Prof. dr Menno Hurenkamp |
| 9-07-25, 10h-14h | Integrating for action | Rik Hospers MSc MA |
Prof. dr Patrick Nullens
Prof. dr Rob van Eijbergen
Prof. dr ir Gerda van Dijk
Prof. dr Menno Hurenkamp
Rik Hospers MSc MA
Current or future leaders and/or those who are interested in the ethical side of leadership.
The course emphasizes the development of a personal leadership narrative, underpinned by personal reflection, practical learning exercises and self-intervention development, helping participants align their story with the responsibilities they will assume as current or future leaders.
Apart from class attendance participants are expected to pre-read literature and complete a preparatory assignment as well as an assignment upon completion.
The housing costs do not include a Utrecht Summer School sleeping bag. This is a separate product on the invoice. If you wish to bring your own bedding, please deselect or remove the sleeping bag from your order once you apply for the course.