Through deep dive discussions inspired by writings, TED talks, art and unique exercises, participants develop a fuller understanding of themselves and are better prepared to make critical values-based decisions to guide them. Our seminars are not lessons, but rather, road maps marked by a series of questions. They center around a courageous space where we explore ideas, experiences, and values. We foster deep, open conversations, and mutual engagement. Our goal is to cultivate the qualities of curiosity, thoughtful dialogue, open-mindedness, active listening, and continued self-exploration. For many of our students, these discussions are the beginning of a lifelong journey to discover what matters most to them.

While we have done sessions that comprise single class periods, the true value of the process comes from longer blocks that allow multiple readings, TED talks, or pieces of art to be discussed, compared, and explored. The greatest benefit comes from several sessions over time — a full arc of discussions that allows participants to investigate a series of themes in order to develop a fuller sense of self. For younger students, this falls under character education. For college and adult participants, our programs create a place to tackle topics that define our humanity and include themes of justice, equity, freedom, and good society. As part of the full experience, we also conduct sessions for students to explore and write their own personal values statement to guide their decision making. 

Peak to Peak Leadership was inspired by Christy Orris’ Henry Crown Fellowship at the Aspen Institute and her husband Jay’s involvement with the Aspen Global Leadership Network. Their experiences at the Aspen Institute introduced them to a methodology designed to dig deep into complicated societal and leadership issues. These types of deep discussions were largely absent from their own educational, career, and social lives. They realized the importance of exploring purpose, values and issues, that really matter as a way to prepare and support the next generation of humane, mindful, and enlightened leaders.

Need to get in touch? Interested in attending one of our seminars or becoming a moderator? Reach out to us here: