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Program Overview

In a world characterized by chaos and conflict, effective leadership demands a deep understanding of the underlying values and assumptions that drive decisions. The Leadership for the 21st Century program offers senior executives a transformative experience, equipping them with the tools to exercise leadership without authority, manage organizational dynamics, and inspire creativity and commitment within their teams.

Effective leadership begins with identifying and managing the assumptions and values that drive decisions. It requires not only examining personal beliefs, but also determining how to reconcile competing commitments and loyalties in your organization or community.

Leadership for the 21st Century, a one-week on-campus program from Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education, provides a foundation for this innovative approach. Through sessions in the classroom and in small groups, and through individual reflection, you will get critical insights into understanding the relationship between leadership and authority. You will learn better ways to exercise influence and manage the individual and institutional dynamics of change. And you will be equipped to re-enter your environment refreshed, with new tools and practices to guide your approach to leadership.

PROGRAM CURRICULUM

The curriculum of Leadership for the 21st Century, an on-campus executive program, is designed to simulate the challenges of leadership in the public sphere, with a focus on navigating authority, conflict, and change. Led by experienced Harvard faculty, the program incorporates peer-group consultations, case studies, and personal reflection to help participants develop practical strategies for thriving as leaders in complex and unpredictable environments.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

Upon completing this program, participants will:

  • Learn to exercise leadership effectively, even without formal authority.
  • Develop skills to analyze and manage the dynamics that impede progress.
  • Enhance their ability to unlock individual and group creativity.
  • Gain insights into translating purpose and commitment into tangible results.
  • Find their unique leadership voice and refine their approach to leading in complex environments.
  • Build resilience and thrive in their leadership roles, particularly in the face of chaos and conflict.

Application Information

Leadership for the 21st Century: Chaos, Conflict, and Courage is intended for senior executives in government, corporate, and nonprofit organizations from professionally and geographically diverse backgrounds.

Applicants who will benefit from this program include:

  • Senior public officials at the national, state, and local levels
  • Corporate executives, including vice presidents, directors, and C-level officers
  • Nonprofit and NGO leaders

Immerse yourself with a cohort of fellow leaders on Harvard’s historic campus. View the draft program schedule. Note that module titles, speakers, and sequence may change.

WHAT PARTICIPANTS ARE SAYING

“This program was the best training I have ever experienced, pushing me to my limits in a learning environment second to none. I left Harvard a different person.”
Marvin Sims, Equity Coordinator, Mounds View Public Schools
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Professor Tim O'Brien, Faculty Chair, discusses the curriculum and impact of Leadership for the 21st Century.

Faculty & Research

Timothy O'Brien Photo

Timothy O'Brien

Lecturer in Public Policy

Farayi Chipungu Photo

Farayi Chipungu

Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy

Hugh O'Doherty Photo

Hugh O'Doherty

Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy

Shari Tishman

Shari Tishman

Lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Education and a Senior Research Associate at Harvard Project Zero

Participants from the Leadership for the 21st Century program discuss their experience at Harvard at what they took away from the program.

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Admissions & Financial Information

Harvard Kennedy School Executive Education provides comprehensive admissions and financial information to help you make an informed decision. Learn more now!