You’ve probably heard our motto, “Change lives. Change organizations. Change the world.” But how do Stanford MBA students embody this through their actions, behaviors, and words? One way is through the LOWkeynotes program, which challenges students to share ideas they believe will inspire others and make a positive difference in the world.
In LOWkeynotes, students work all quarter long to develop and practice powerful nine-minute keynote-style presentations in partnership with communication coaches, faculty and alumni. LOWkeynotes provides students the opportunity to grapple with some of the challenges that leaders face as communicators, and to learn what it takes to go from being just a good presenter to being an effective leader.
Last month, a group of 28 students delivered presentations that covered a wide variety of subjects.
Marissa Duswalt, a first-year MBA who formerly worked for First Lady Michelle Obama on her “Let’s Move” campaign, encouraged us to be conscious consumers who are empowered to make healthy choices. She shared a story of her own struggles with weight, and how making more informed decisions about food changed her life.
Natalie Domond, a second-year MBA, described the power of “tipa tipa,” or the wisdom of “step by step,” a mindset and philosophy she adopted after surviving the 2010 earthquake in Haiti and witnessing the power of slow but steady incremental change.
Adnan Iqbal, an MSx Fellow, offered a presentation on the advantages of choosing to respond, rather than react, when confronted with tense or difficult situations. By taking the time to deliberate and be intentional when responding, he argued, we all have a chance to engage with others more authentically and leave a positive impression.
To watch for yourself, check out the 2014 LOWkeynote presentations.