WELL 38 — The Neuroscience of Leadership and Emotional Mastery
Quarter: Summer
Instructor(s): Patty Purpur de Vries
Date(s): Jun 30—Aug 4
Class Recording Available: Yes
Class Meeting Day: Tuesdays
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Class Meeting Time: 6:00—7:30 pm (PT)
Tuition: $365
Refund Deadline: Jul 2
Unit(s): 0
Enrollment Limit: 45
Status: Open
Quarter: Summer
Day: Tuesdays
Duration: 6 weeks
Time: 6:00—7:30 pm (PT)
Date(s): Jun 30—Aug 4
Unit(s): 0
Tuition: $365
Refund Deadline: Jul 2
Instructor(s): Patty Purpur de Vries
Grade Restriction: NGR only; no credit/letter grade
Enrollment Limit: 45
Recording Available: Yes
Status: Open
Leaders face defining tests every day as they guide teams through uncertainty and make consequential decisions with imperfect information. In these situations, the unconscious mind often outpaces conscious reasoning, narrowing perception and shaping influence before a word is spoken. Drawing on contemporary neuroscience, this course reveals how these hidden dynamics drive leadership performance and how understanding them can unlock steadiness, resilience, and sharper judgment under pressure. You’ll begin by learning to recognize what’s happening internally as you navigate everyday leadership demands—from automatic thought patterns to physical stress responses. Building on that foundation, we examine how attention and belief shape behavior in high-stakes contexts. Then, through applied frameworks and experiential exercises, you’ll test neuroscience-informed tools against real challenges, including conflict, consequential decisions, and sustaining focus over time. You’ll leave with a practical, evidence-based approach to leading with clarity, composure, and impact.
PATTY PURPUR DE VRIES
Chief Experience Officer, Living Well USA
Patty Purpur de Vries specializes in neuro-literacy, leadership, and well-being, and she is also a nine-time NCAA All-American in track and field. She received a BA in psychology from Stanford and an MS in health promotion management from Nebraska Methodist College. She is the author of two books: The Soft Side of Success and Living Well Within. She previously directed several wellness initiatives at Stanford while working with BeWell, HealthySteps to Wellness, and WellMD. Textbooks for this course:
There are no required textbooks; however, some fee-based online readings may be assigned.