Applications for the 2026/2027 Cohort are now open - click the button below to apply.

For priority consideration, please apply by June 12, 2026.

The Program

The Global Leadership Program is a professional development and global engagement program of the Vermont Council on World Affairs that connects professionals across Vermont with topics, policymakers, and ideas of global significance that impact their communities throughout the state. This program is designed for Vermonters interested in global affairs with a desire to broaden their professional expertise.

The program consists of professional development workshops, discussion groups, and direct interaction with local and international experts. Participants meet monthly to develop their leadership skills, explore important international issues, and broaden their understanding of the policies and institutions impacting life in Vermont and beyond. Participants will gain valuable personal and professional connections by becoming part of Vermont’s global network, which will benefit their organization and their career advancement.

Ultimately, participants in the Global Leadership Program will be equipped with a deeper understanding of global issues and skills, positioning themselves to better support our communities in addressing global challenges and bolstering Vermont’s position as an internationally engaged state.

Leadership Skills Covered

Developing Cultural Competencies
Intercultural Communication
Public Speaking and Persuasive Storytelling
Informal Leadership
Effecting Change in your Community
Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Goal Setting
Policy Development and Analysis

Global Topics Covered

US Foreign Policy and International Diplomacy
International Law and Human Rights
International Migration and Refugees
International Trade and Economics
Peace and Conflict Resolution
International Development and Humanitarian Aid
The Environment
Global Health

Frequently Asked Questions

Past Speaker Highlights

Tim Tierney

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS RECRUITMENT AND INTERNATIONAL TRADE, VERMONT DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Bor Yang

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, VERMONT HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Lewis Mudge

CENTRAL AFRICA DIRECTOR, HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH
Yacouba Bogre

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, AALV
Tracy Dolan

DIRECTOR, VERMONT STATE REFUGEE OFFICE
Elizabeth Shackelford

AUTHOR AND FORMER US DIPLOMAT
Mark Redmond

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SPECTRUM YOUTH AND FAMILY SERVICES
Fmr. Lt. Gov Molly Gray

FORMER LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR OF VERMONT
Jonathan Pinckney

SENION RESEARCHER, PROGRAM ON NONVIOLENT ACTION AT THE UNITED STATES INSTITUTE OF PEACE
Joe Wiah

DIRECTOR, ECCD MULTICULTURAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT CENTER
Kyle Ferrier

FELLOW AND DIRECTOR OF ACADEMIC AFFAIRS, KOREAN ECONOMIC INSTITUTE (KEI)
Mark Oettinger

Partner, Montroll, Backus & Oettinger
Chris Powell

CEO, ThinkMD
Blain Newtown

COO, Beta Technologies
Bryn Sakagawa

Senior Health Development Officer, USAID
Miranda Rivers

PROGRAM SPECIALIST, PROGRAM FOR NONVIOLENT ACTION AT THE UNITED STATES INSTITUTE OF PEACE
Kristen Graf

Global Director of Environmental & Social Responsibility at Darn Tough
Jared Ordway

Peace Practitioner
Adrian Chrobot

PhD, Political Counsellor, Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Washington, DC

Alumni from Diverse Businesses & Organizations, including:

What are People Saying About VCWA’s Global Leadership Program?

"In today's interconnected world, the VCWA's Global Leadership Program holds immense value for Vermont. It recognizes the vital link between global issues and local communities, understanding that acknowledging the importance of global issues to local communities is crucial for informed decision-making, proactive planning, and sustainable development. By actively understanding and engaging with global challenges, our communities can play a pivotal role in finding solutions, adapting to changes, and fostering resilience."
"The VCWA’s Global Leadership Program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity in our Brave Little State for anyone looking to connect the dots between local and global issues. I couldn’t have asked for a more thought provoking line-up of topics and guest speakers, or for a more interesting, diverse cohort of fellow participants."
"VCWA's all-star staff dig deep into their impressive network of global connections to offer a leadership program unlike any other in the state—one that soars across international borders but doesn't forget the potholes in the driveway. From climate change to immigration, public health to economic development, over the course of 9 months, the program explores the challenges defining our current historical moment at both the local and global scale and connects you to cutting-edge innovators working to solve them."
“How often do you get to spend a full day in a room of incredibly bright and thoughtful leaders, talking with civically minded global movers and shakers from around the world, diving into the most pressing issues facing our planet…and never leave your home area code!? If you're lucky enough to participate in the VCWA Global Leadership Program, the answer is once a month!"

Thank you to our sponsors for supporting our Global Leadership Program!

Support Vermont’s future leaders

There are several sponsorship opportunities to support the Global Leadership Program in developing a more inclusive and representative leadership network in Vermont. Please contact us to learn more.

Become a Sponsor

Special thank you to the city of Burlington's Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Department for sponsoring scholarships for members of Vermont's BIPOC community.