A series of preeminent business and cultural leaders visited the Palm Desert Campus throughout winter quarter to share their stories of success and, at times, failures. The presentations, called Lessons from Leaders, were designed to inspire students to take chances and reach for goals they never thought possible.   Lessons from Leaders is a for-credit class that focuses on a different business, nonprofit or government leader each week to highlight their professional experience and personal advice for success.  During winter quarter, the class format began with an introduction by instructor Michael J. Ortiz, president emeritus of Cal Poly Pomona, followed by the visiting speaker providing 30-40 minutes of content, and then an open conversation with the enrolled students. The class concluded with a reception where students interacted with the speaker and gained critical networking skills.