Reflections on growing leadership capacity through formal training and mid-career peer connections

Abstract

In this commentary, two alumni of the 2018 Society of Behavioral Medicine Mid-Career Leadership Institute reflect on their experiences in the year-long program. Each was at different stages of their career and went into the program for different reasons. One was seeking purpose and direction after being promoted to Associate Professor. The other had been awarded full professorship and was contemplating a career move into administration. Assigned to the same learning community within the institute, they stayed in touch through monthly peer-mentoring calls over the course of the year. These calls both reinforced what they learned during the leadership institute and provided a forum for brainstorming how to maximize their career opportunities and traverse their distinct career challenges. Both have since gone through significant career changes, thanks to the validation, inspiration, and support provided by the leadership institute. Both continue to reap the benefits from participating in the leadership institute as they navigate the new and exciting landscape of their changing careers.