CCARE at Stanford University

Who did your project serve and what suffering did it address?
My Capstone Project served leaders in health care and related industries who are on a whirlwind ride of change and disruption. It addressed their challenges of staying present, aware, and responsive in the face of adversity.

How did this project address that suffering?
My 5-week program provided healthcare leaders with proven methods and tools to remain responsive and agile when confronting difficult circumstances. The bedrock of our work together is self-compassion, which allows us to greatly increase our capacity to remain open and creative in the face of challenges.

Who was your audience and how many people participated? 
Each cohort of senior health care professionals consisted of 9 leaders participating in a 5-week virtual workshop.

What was the reported impact on or feedback from participants? On yourself? 
On participant shared: “Based on science and proven techniques, Victoria’s program delivered practical skills and approaches to achieving goals essential to being a good, compassionate leader, as well as being ready to take on the challenges we face today in business, at home, and with the people on our teams.” 

How has the ACT Program helped you become an Ambassador of Compassion? 
One of my main goals in being part of ACT was to tease apart the difference between empathy and compassion. I have loved our nuanced discussions about how empathy can sometimes be an incomplete and less nurturing response than compassion. This program has given me practical tools and the mindset to try to approach every interaction, both professionally and personally, with compassion. This has created a profound and enduring shift in my own well-being and in my relationships. 

What advice would you give to someone who's considering participating in the ACT Program? 
Do it! Join ready to learn, grow and connect!