Hansen Summer Institute for Leadership and International Cooperation

The Hansen Summer Institute on Leadership and International Cooperation is an exciting international program funded by a generous grant from the Fred J. Hansen Foundation. Ten three-week Institutes take place in San Diego, California in July. This program at Hansen Summer Institute has provided a unique University-based leadership experience and program in international cooperation. American university students gather annually at Hansen Summer Institute and join students from a variety of developing countries and regions of social strife to learn from experts and one another about conflict resolution and social entrepreneurship.

A primary goal of this program at Hansen Summer Institute focuses on creating an international community of young scholars who will use their summer experience as a foundation for creating lasting friendships and acquiring common practical understanding of a more peaceful future. Fellows receive hands-on training in team-building, public speaking, negotiation, mediation and working together to solve international problems. Moreover, they learn to listen actively and to look for common interests and building realistic bridges of cooperation. Classroom training complements local excursions to San Diego attractions. Fellows meet and greet academic, political and business leaders to refine their own ideas and skills, while learning about the “American Way of Life.” Students leave San Diego with a “leadership toolbox” they can apply appropriately to their future challenges and endeavors. Participants have come from every corner of the globe, made life-long friendships and shaped their futures in a more positive direction.