Professional development is integral to the overall goals of the Executive MBA program and is required of all students. Over 100 hours of professional development are integrated into the curriculum over four semesters.

• Semester 1: PVA Self-Assessment, Team Building
• Semester 2: Innovation, International Experience
• Semester 3: Action Learning Capstone Project
• Semester 4: Communication/Presentation Skills, Action Learning Capstone Project Final Presentation

Leadership Development

Our approach to professional development includes a collaboration with Pondera Leadership Consulting that allows us to access their online assessment tool, the Pondera® Virtual Advisor (PVA). By measuring personal preferences and inclinations, the PVA helps Executive MBA students gain self-insight and find their best fit roles, and assists leaders in the guidance and development of their teams. The instrument's primary output is the student's preferred operating style, or PVA style, which establishes the framework by which an individual can best lead their life. Seidman administers the PVA, and provides feedback and guidance to students in-house. Each EMBA student is provided with individualized, professional coaching throughout the four semester program.

Communication Skills Development

Communication Skills Development focuses on learning and applying the foundations necessary to create clear, concise communications in various organizational matters. Executive MBA students work on both oral and written communication, applying the concepts learned in class to their own unique work responsibilities. Students improve their skills in editing and revising their previous communication efforts and gain a deeper understanding of why communications fail. Performance is monitored for continuous improvement and their ability to apply what they've learned.

Fireside Chats

Part of the Executive MBA program experience includes exposing students to C-suite executives and community leaders. Through these informal discussions, students gain an understanding of the “behind the scenes” challenges and opportunities experienced by executive leaders. These chats also allow students to engage in high-level discussions. There are typically 3-5 fireside chats spread throughout the Executive MBA curriculum. Notable examples from past Fireside Chats include: the mayor of Grand Rapids, CEO’s, COO’s and Chief HR officers from organizations in the region.