Using a group development framework to maximize leadership strategies in the inaugural session of the Society of Behavioral Medicine Leadership Institute

The 2016-2017 Inaugural Class of the Society of Behavioral Medicine Leadership Institute (SBM LI) debuted to an eager team of 36 mid-career fellows led by energetic mentors, professional coaches, and career development experts. Fellows were divided into learning communities of eight participants for deeper engagement. Our "Green Team"learning community bonded quickly and actively committed to our collective progress and projects. Upon returning home from the in-person sessions, our activities included monthly team conference calls and consultation with our mentors and selected coaches. The Green Team regularly communicated throughout the year, giving feedback to each other about our projects to be presented at the 2017 SBM Annual Meeting. We also discussed our mentoring and coaching experiences, leadership skills put to use at our institutions, and personal development. Contact continued via social media, email, teleconferencing, and collaborations at other professional meetings. The Green Team utilized the Tuckman and Jensen model of small group development to describe how we developed into a high-functioning group that maximized the resources afforded by the SBM LI to yield successful leadership outcomes. This commentary will offer an example of how a productive SBM LI team works collaboratively to utilize its mentors and resources for professional development.