MDP 585R: Special Topics – Elements of Advocacy Instructor: Ed Lee III

• Enrollment minimum: Eight
• Enrollment limit: 20 – a waiting list will be maintained for excess enrollment requests
• Grading basis: Letter grade only (MDP 514R); letter grade or S/U (MDP
• 585R)
• Meeting dates: August 25th – December 1st
• Meeting day, time, method: Thursdays, 5:00pm – 7:00pm, in person

The quest for cultural, political, and social change requires an understanding of the various components that comprise advocacy. Effective decision-making and leadership require an understanding of argumentation and advocacy. This is particularly the case for heterogenous organizations and communities. In addition to exploring the element of effective advocacy, the course will equip students with the skills to analyze audiences and construct compelling arguments for change.

MDP 585R: Special Topics – Health and Human Rights Instructor: Dr. Jennifer Sarrett

• Enrollment minimum: Four
• Enrollment limit: 20 – a waiting list will be maintained for excess
• enrollment requests
• Grading basis: Letter grade only (MDP 514R); letter grade or S/U (MDP
• 585R)
• Meeting dates: August 30th – October 18th (First half of the semester)
• Meeting day, time, method: Tuesdays, 4;00pm – 6:00pm, in person

In this course we will learn about various human rights theories and policies and apply them to issues related to population and individual health as well as to the field of bioethics. Throughout the course, we will critically examine whether human health is a human rights issue and if so, how to address this issue. Particular human rights issues will be explored, including, those important to:

• Women and children
• Refugees and displaced persons
• People living with HIV/AIDS

MDP 585R: Special Topics – Identity, Development, and Social Change Instructor: Ms. Candace Stanciel

• Enrollment minimum: Four
• Enrollment limit: 20 – a waiting list will be maintained for excess
• enrollment requests
• Grading basis: Letter grade only (MDP 514R); letter grade or S/U (MDP 585R)

• Meeting dates: October 13th – December 1st
• Meeting day, time, method: Thursdays 1:30pm – 3:30pm, in person

For individuals seeking to drive social impact and the mission-driven organizations they work and serve within, understanding the challenges and opportunities related to equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) is a critical need and skill. Identity, Development and Social Change will help leaders interested in philanthropy and social change develop a greater understanding of identity and its impact on their personal and professional development, highlight ways to operationalize equity inside organizations and provide opportunities to apply models for solutions to challenges they are observing in the field. This course seeks to lift critical issues that intersect with EDI such as program design and development, data and measurement, theories of change, coaching across difference, stakeholder engagement and fundraising to understand what’s possible in the ways we both understand and practice social change.

MDP 585R: Special Topics – Managing Purpose-Based Organizations Instructor: Mr. Randy Martin

• Enrollment minimum: Eight
• Enrollment limit: 20 – a waiting list will be maintained for excess
• enrollment requests
• Grading basis: Letter grade only (MDP 514R); letter grade or S/U (MDP
• 585R)
• Meeting dates: August 25th – December 1st
• Meeting day, time, method: Thursdays,11:00am – 1:00pm, in person

This course focuses on the key concepts and dynamics of organizations within the evolving role that purpose-based organizations play in delivering social impact. It is not enough for leaders – whether in for-profit, nonprofit, or hybrid organizations – to understand business and social issues; they must also be able to effectively navigate complex people dynamics and build organizations capable of sustained success.

This course will increase your understanding of those factors and dynamics that affect the performance of organizations and, as a result, enhance your ability to operate effectively – as a participant and leader — in socially complex environments. This course will apply a systems-thinking lens to the topics we will cover – a perspective critical to both understand and change the human systems in which we participate. Specific topics will include: the emergence of purpose-based organizations and their role in society; the importance of shared strategy and focus on intended social outcomes; the role and characteristics of effective leaders; talent challenges and the importance of DEI; leading and managing organizational change; organizational culture and emerging trends in creating high-performing teams. It should be noted that students will have the opportunity to provide input into specific topics they would like to cover based on their interests, experiences, and prior coursework.

This course will use a combination of readings, lectures, visiting speakers, videos, exercises, cases, individual and team assignments, and robust class discussion. Case studies and class exercises will provide opportunities to apply theories, concepts, and research findings; written assignments are designed to help you consolidate your insights and develop your analytical skills. Finally, guest lecturers will provide a pragmatic, real-life context to bring many of the concepts to life.