SPECIALIZATION ENRICHES LEADERSHIP SKILLS
As a Microsoft product manager whose work in licensing and pricing is a
hybrid between marketing and operations, Michael Wang says he makes use of all
he learns in the Graduate Leadership Formation Specialization (GLFS) of his MBA
program at the Albers School of Business and Economics.
Wang seeks numerous
competencies from his MBA. He wants to lead teams, set direction and develop
confident communication and greater interpersonal awareness. Albers’ premier reputation in the region and
the flexibility it offers professionals with full-time work schedules were a
draw for Wang. The GLFS is “an incredible specialization and should be
recognized as a differentiating factor in Albers. I hope to see the GLFS draw
students throughout the state, region and across the nation,” Wang says.
Students in this select specialization drive the Red Winged Leadership
Award, which honors community members for their leadership, business acumen and
social impact. The GLFS cohort identifies possible candidates and selects the
winners.
“It’s like a greenhouse where
aspiring leaders can practice, cultivate and grow their leadership skills in a
safe classroom environment,” Wang says. “All of us were inspired by hearing
their stories, learning the process and journey they went through to arrive at
where they are today. We looked for Red Winged Leaders who embodied key SU
philosophies such as reaching out to humanity, bridging the gap and connecting
people.”
Hobnobbing with
internationally known business leaders is another advantage of his studies.
Wang was the opening speaker for the Red Winged Leadership event where Costco
Wholesale co-founder and retired CEO Jim Sinegal, now senior executive in
residence at Albers, delivered the keynote speech. Wang also served as a
student panelist when Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz came to campus for the
Albers Executive Speaker Series. He credits not only SU but also Toastmasters
International for helping him develop confidence as a public speaker.
Albers Associate Professor of Management Jennifer
Marrone describes Wang as articulate and thoughtful, saying his
motivation is influenced by his upbringing and culture.
Born in Taipei, Taiwan, Wang came to this country with his family when he
was six. He is especially indebted to his parents—his mother for the
foundational upbringing she provided and his father for being a paragon to
follow.
“Many of the experiences that
define and shape who I am today are due to my father’s sacrifice to bring our
family to the United States,” Wang wrote in a paper for one of Marrone’s
management classes.
His drive takes many forms. He completed the Seattle to Portland Bicycle
Classic in one day and finished the Seattle Rock ’n’ Roll Marathon. Wang is also
a classically trained pianist who wanted to study music as an undergraduate,
yet says he’s pleased his family steered him in a different direction.
“Now
I have a great career that can fund my hobby,” he says with a smile.