Building Leadership, Step by Step
Over the past three months, the H.I.T. Program 2026 has remained on track, continuing to build leadership capabilities through structured, hands-on learning.
Leadership Retreat, Lugano, 1-3 June 2026
A core element of the program was a three-day event held in Lugano. This immersive experience offered participants the chance to reflect, connect, and apply leadership insights in a collaborative setting. The agenda was designed by Prof. Heather Hofmeister, based on participants’ feedback from the online preparatory session on May 5.
The event opened with a joint session with Alumnae and professors from the Università della Svizzera italiana Inclusive Academic Leadership. The afternoon focused on setting goals, sharing expectations, and reflecting on individual leadership journeys. Sessions on Listening to Lead and The Geography of Leadership and Power highlighted the importance of empathetic listening and a deeper understanding of power dynamics in academia.
Day two strengthened communication and analytical skills, equipping participants with strategies for Constructive Conversations and introducing the Four Frames of Leadership to address complex challenges. The final day focused on key issues such as boundaries, respect, and impression management, encouraging participants to lead authentically and effectively. The program concluded with reflection, action planning, and a commitment to ongoing peer support. A follow-up online meeting on August 25 will help review key learnings, consolidate insights, and define next steps.
👉 Related LinkedIn-Post: 3-day Leadership Event, Lugano
Personalized Leadership Development, on-going
Another important component of the H.I.T. Program remains individualized growth. In total, 56 one-on-one coaching sessions (two per participant) have been completed or are scheduled until October 2026. They ensure that each participant benefits from tailored guidance aligned with their personal leadership journey.
This year’s program is supported by seven professional coaches and academic leadership experts: Grace Favaro, Prof. Heather Hofmeister, Zita Küng, Elizabeth Nash, Sibyl Schädeli, Prof. Marianne Schmid Mast, and Dr. Sarah Shephard.
👉 Related LinkedIn Post: Coaching