​Student transformation does not occur in a
single moment. It
unfolds over a life cycle.
Courageous Growth Mindset is a
leadership development framework
that supports a student’s journey
from classroom to career.
Programming led by Lisa Howze, CPA, MSF, Hon. LL.D, Founder & CEO of The Lisa Howze Experience, LLC,
and creator of the Courageous Growth Mindset framework.
The Problem
Many universities invest heavily in recruiting students—but struggle to retain them beyond the first year.
The transition from freshman to sophomore year is one of the most vulnerable periods in the student lifecycle. When students lack a clear sense of identity, belonging, and direction, they are more likely to disengage, stop out, or transfer.
This loss impacts more than individual students. It affects institutional stability, leadership pipelines, and the long-term strength of the campus community.
The Courageous Growth Mindset (CGM) framework strengthens student persistence by helping students develop internal clarity, leadership confidence, and a deeper sense of belonging—equipping them to remain enrolled, engaged, and positioned for long-term success.
What is Courageous Growth Mindset?
More Than a Philosophy. A Framework for Growth
Courageous Growth Mindset (CGM) is a leadership development framework designed to guide students from classroom to career.
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It moves students beyond survival thinking into intentional growth — strengthening identity, building resilience, and preparing them to lead with clarity and purpose.
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At its core, CGM equips students to reframe challenges as opportunities, persist through disruption, and take ownership of their future.
Who CGM Serves
Designed to Support the Full Student Life Cycle
While students are the central focus, CGM supports the full ecosystem
surrounding their development.
STUDENTS & EDUCATORS
CGM strengthens identity, resilience, and academic persistence—equipping students to take responsibility for their learning. CGM also empowers educators to lead with courage, challenge disengagement patterns, and foster cultures where students persist and thrive.
PARENTS & FAMILIES
CGM extends learning beyond the classroom by equipping families with practical tools and shared language around financial literacy, personal ownership, and smart decision-making.
EMERGING PROFESSIONALS
As students transition into the workforce, CGM strengthens communication, collaboration, and leadership skills, equipping young professionals to contribute effectively, adapt to change, and grow within their organizations.
LEADERS & ORGANIZATIONS
As students grow into professionals, CGM helps organizations build people-centered cultures that attract, develop, and retain the next generation of leaders—creating environments where emerging talent can integrate, contribute, and grow.
What CGM Offers
Multiple Entry Points. One Unified Framework
Courageous Growth Mindset is delivered through structured experiences that strengthen student persistence, leadership capacity, and long-term readiness.
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Workshops & Interactive Learning Experiences
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Keynote Presentations
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Campus & School-Based Activations
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Mentoring & Leadership Capacity
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Licensing of Educational Tools & Learning Resources
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Conferences & Convenings
Engage
with
CGM
Partnerships grounded in the Courageous Growth Mindset framework strengthen student retention, leadership development, and workforce readiness—supporting colleges and universities guiding students from enrollment through early career transition.
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Engagements are led by Lisa Howze and delivered through the Lisa Howze Experience, LLC.
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Whether through a campus-wide activation or multi-session student programming, the CGM framework provides structured experiences aligned with institutional goals.
