Celebrating Milestones: A Voyage Around the World

On Wednesday, Oct. 9, please join Sharon F. Matusik, Edward J. Frey Dean of Business, for a conversation with Jessica Watson, the youngest person to sail solo, nonstop, and unassisted around the world. At age 16, Watson spent 210 days at sea navigating some of the world’s most challenging stretches of ocean. Watson’s journey around the world is a testament to resilience. Amid adversity, she recognized the value of appreciating small victories and acknowledging progress at every step. Her perseverance and grit demonstrate that we all have the power to live our dreams — no matter how small or big they are.

While sailing around the world, Watson filmed a documentary about her experience, which was later narrated by Sir Richard Branson. Within three months of her return to Australia, she authored a book titled True Spirit, which told the story of her voyage. In February of 2024, a film adaptation of her book was released on Netflix and had over 30 million viewing hours in the first 10 days following its release. Now aged 30, Watson has completed an MBA, authored a second book, and currently works as a management consultant within Deloitte’s Human Capital Practice.


Oct. 9, presentation 4-5 pm, reception to follow
Michigan Ross Tauber Colloquium
Free and open to the public - RSVP Required