Thrive: The Science of Well-Being

July 26-30, 2027 Rose Hill

Non-Credit Course

Three students sitting with laptops in classroom

Great leadership begins within. In this immersive program, students explore the cutting-edge science of well-being and how inner balance fuels outer impact. Through a blend of lectures, guided practices, and interactive exercises, participants discover how their biology can become an ally in building resilience, focus, and confidence.

Skills/Learning Outcomes

Students will learn to:

  • Understand how body systems (cognitive, emotional, physical, social) shape decision-making and leadership.

  • Train attention for better focus, creativity, and productivity.

  • Regulate emotions to respond effectively under stress.

  • Strengthen resilience through improved sleep, nutrition, and movement.

  • Build habits that sustain energy and long-term well-being.

Overall Takeaways

Students will leave with a personal well-being toolkit grounded in science and practice — including techniques for emotional regulation, focus, and energy management. By applying these skills in daily life and teamwork, participants will develop the foundations of calm, confident, and purpose-driven leadership.

Course Schedule

  • Day 1: The Biology of Well-Being – Explore how the brain and body influence mood, energy, and focus.

  • Day 2: Training Attention – Understand the neuroscience of focus and practice mindfulness tools to enhance performance.

  • Day 3: Emotional Intelligence in Action – Learn strategies to regulate emotions for better decision-making.

  • Day 4: Building Resilience – Discover how sleep, movement, and nutrition form the foundation for sustained energy.

  • Day 5: Leading from Within – Connect well-being to leadership through science-based practices.

Instructor Bio

Headshot of William Henniger
Dr. Bill Henninger received his PhD in human development and family studies, with a specialization in early childhood special education, from Iowa State University. Currently, he serves as the department head for Family, Aging, and Counseling and as the program director for the Interior Design and Human Services programs. He has taught in university settings for over 20 years at multiple institutions and through multiple modalities. Course topics he often teaches include research methods for social sciences, the science of dating and relationships, and professional preparation for human service professionals. His research interests are broadly focused on social and emotional development across the lifespan. His sub-interests include dating and relationships, social development in early childhood, and social development in the workplace.

Course Details

Thrive: The Science of Well-Being
July 26-30, 2027, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Rose Hill Campus
Instructor: TBD

Course Number: SULA 0119 RN3
CRN: 17076

This non-credit course is open to high school students only.

Tuition

Residential: $2,086.00 (2026 rate; 2027 prices will be available in December)
Tuition for the residential program includes the course, course materials, housing, meals, and excursions in and outside of class. Move-in is Sunday afternoon, the day before classes begin. Please click here for a more detailed calendar of important dates.

Commuter: $1,418.00 (2026 rate; 2027 prices will be available in December)
Tuition for commuters includes the course, course materials, lunches, and excursions in and outside of class. Additional meals are available on a pay-as-you-go basis.

Students may wish to bring funds for incidentals, shopping at the Fordham Bookstore, souvenirs, and any personal items they wish to purchase.

 

Apply

Application deadlines:

Course and housing: The deadlines for 2027 will be posted by December 2026. Please note that admission decisions are rolling until the class is full, and course caps are around 20 students. The deadline to be considered for a limited number of need-based discounts is April 1. 

Application Requirements: this non-credit course is open to high school students who have completed their first year. The course is recommended for those with a 3.0 or better. No prior experience with the subject matter is required.

To apply, you will need a copy of your high school transcript and your fall report card if the grades are not reflected on your transcript.

Please make note of the course details above because you will select your course as part of your application.

There is a $75 fee to apply and a $300 deposit to secure your seat. Housing requires a $50 deposit. All payments will be treated as deposits toward your final bill.

2027 applications will open in late November. Please sign up to stay informed about the Fordham Summer Leaders Academy, or email us with questions!

Immersion 3 Resident Move-In/Move-Out

Date  Resident Information
June 26 All medical forms and consents due
Sunday, July 25 Move-in between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Saturday, July 30 Move-out between 6 and 9 p.m.

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