Fellowships

Seminars

At the heart of our Fellowships is a transformational seminar arc that guides Fellows through foundational questions of values, leadership, and a good society. For over 75 years, the Aspen Institute has refined its distinctive text-based dialogue approach — a proven methodology for deep leadership transformation. Through carefully selected readings from classical and contemporary thinkers, skilled moderation, and the unique interplay of diverse perspectives, Fellows engage in conversations that challenge assumptions and expand their vision. 

Core seminars include:*

• The Challenge of Leadership: Fellows explore diverse leadership models through the lens of Gandhi, King, and contemporary leaders, examining their own leadership choices and impact.
• The Aspen Executive Seminar: Through classical and modern thinkers from Plato to Carson, Fellows construct their vision of a ‘good society’ while wrestling with fundamental questions of governance, economics, and social progress.
• Leading in a Global Context: Engaging with voices like Roy, Tutu, and Shafik, Fellows confront the complexities of leadership in an interconnected world.
• The Promise of Leadership: Fellows reflect deeply on their journey from success to significance, integrating lessons learned and charting their path toward lasting impact.

Within these trusted spaces, accomplished leaders gain the rare opportunity to step back from daily demands, examine their core values, and reimagine how they might use their leadership to address humanity’s greatest challenges. Our expertly trained Aspen Institute moderators create a space where Fellows can explore profound questions with both intellectual rigor and emotional authenticity.

*This seminar arc is tailored to each Fellowship’s context and needs based on the impact they seek to achieve. 

Commitment to Impact

Fellows embark on a leadership impact journey that begins with a fundamental question: Where should I direct my unique gifts to address what the world needs?

Through the Fellowship experience, leaders discover the intersection of their mission (what drives them), their capacity (their unique talents, resources, and influence), and the urgency (what the world needs). 

This discovery process leads Fellows to take meaningful action. Some Fellows launch new social impact ventures, some transform existing organizations, others influence policy or systems change or leverage their platforms to shift narratives, while others mobilize resources or build movements. 

As Fellows progress through their leadership journey, their approach to impact often evolves. The AGLN provides ongoing support through convening opportunities, peer learning, access to resources, and a global community that amplifies individual efforts through collective action.

This commitment to impact reflects our belief that leadership development is not a destination but a continuous journey of growth, adaptation, and ever-expanding circles of influence.