Executive Leadership Academy - International Programming

Global Leadership Development for Higher Education

An aerial view of UC Berkeley campus, with the Campanile clock tower
[ELA] was an extremely informative, enjoyable experience! The session topics were practical and presentations were engaging and to the point. I loved the way the presenters patiently answered all of the questions participants had.
Shiv Nadar University Program Participant

The Executive Leadership Academy’s international programs extend Berkeley’s distinctive approach to higher education leadership to institutions around the world. Designed for senior leaders, our programs combine insight into how Berkeley approaches strategy, governance, innovation, and academic leadership with contextual expertise from host institutions and regional experts.

Programs may be delivered virtually or onsite and can be customized to align with institutional priorities, national contexts, and strategic goals.

Designed in Partnership

Each international program is developed collaboratively with the host institution or sponsoring organization. While grounded in the Executive Leadership Academy’s core framework, programs may be customized in scope, duration, and content.

Options include:

  • Multi-session leadership academies
  • Focused thematic seminars
  • Cohort-based executive intensives
  • Virtual, hybrid, or onsite delivery

Programs may feature:

  • Berkeley faculty and senior administrators
  • Leaders from the host institution
  • Regional higher education experts
  • Structured cross-institutional dialogue

We work closely with partners to ensure that every program reflects both global perspective and local context.

A Berkeley Lens, Adapted to Your Context

Rooted in UC Berkeley’s tradition of academic excellence, shared governance, and public mission, our international programs provide participants with:

  • Insight into Berkeley’s leadership practices and institutional strategy
  • Faculty-led discussions on innovation, research, and academic excellence
  • Structured peer exchange with senior leaders
  • Case-based and problem-centered learning
  • Opportunities for contextual adaptation and local relevance

Programs may focus on themes such as:

  • Institutional strategy and transformation
  • Research development and global partnerships
  • Governance and shared leadership
  • Innovation ecosystems and entrepreneurship
  • Leadership in complex and evolving systems
30 individuals smile at the camera, from their own Zoom video rooms

2021 Founding International Cohort | Shiv Nadar University, Delhi-NCR, India

[ELA is a] perfectly arranged program with valuable topics and highly experienced experts involved.
Ukraine Seminar Program Participant

Ukraine Seminar Program

The Academy facilitated a seminar program in 2023 for higher education colleagues in Ukraine, focusing on leadership in times of institutional disruption and change. The virtual format enabled meaningful exchange while addressing urgent leadership challenges.

A group of 34 people smile at the camera in their individual Zoom windows

Ukraine Seminar Participants, Faculty, and Staff

Cambodia Seminar Program

A shorter-format seminar was offered in 2024 for higher education leaders in Cambodia, highlighting strategic planning, governance models, and innovation within resource-constrained contexts.

A woman stands in front of a large presentation screen, teaching a group of individuals sitting at desks in front of her.

Janet Holmgren, ELA advisory board and faculty member, leading a strategic planning session with Cambodian higher eduaction leaders.