The Hansen Leadership Institute (HLI) 2025 is now accepting applications for its fully-funded summer leadership program in the USA. Sponsored by the Fred J. Hansen Foundation, the program is designed to bring together young leaders from around the world to promote world peace and international cooperation. It offers a transformative opportunity for participants to develop skills in leadership, mediation, and conflict resolution while fostering international friendships and cooperation.
Participants, known as Hansen Fellows, will engage in intensive leadership training, including public speaking, communication skills, and conflict resolution, with a focus on ethical leadership and cultural understanding. The program takes place over three weeks, from July 1 to July 23, 2025, at the University of San Diego. Fellows will interact with peers from diverse backgrounds, creating a lifelong network committed to peacebuilding and global leadership.
This fully funded leadership development program covers international airfare, accommodation, meals, and all program-related expenses, ensuring that financial barriers do not limit access to this life-changing experience.
Quick Overview of the Hansen Leadership Institute 2025
- Host Country: United States
- Host Institution: University of San Diego, California
- Program Duration: July 1 – July 23, 2025
- Application Deadline:
- International Applicants: January 10, 2025
- U.S. Applicants: March 10, 2025
- Eligibility:
- Must be aged 20-25 at the start of the program
- Upper-division undergraduate or graduate student
- Demonstrated leadership potential in the community or through academic achievements
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully funded, including international airfare, accommodation, meals, and program costs
Perks of the Hansen Leadership Exchange Program 2025
- The program covers all expenses, including international airfare, room and board, and all program costs. Participants will only need to cover the costs associated with obtaining a passport and personal expenses.
- Fellows will receive in-depth training in leadership principles, ethical leadership, public speaking, and effective communication, with a special focus on gender issues in leadership.
- The program provides hands-on training in conflict resolution, mediation, and reconciliation, with instruction from experts in human rights and peacebuilding.
- Hansen Fellows become part of a global network of like-minded leaders, committed to fostering international cooperation and peace. The program encourages deep friendships and collaboration across borders.
- The Hansen Leadership Institute brings together young leaders from conflict zones and areas of social strife, offering them the opportunity to learn from each other, build bridges, and promote cross-cultural understanding.
Benefits of the Hansen Leadership Institute 2025 in the USA Fully funded
- Fellows will enhance their leadership skills through a curriculum focused on ethical leadership, public speaking, and conflict resolution. The program prepares participants to become effective leaders in their communities and on the global stage.
- Participants will gain the tools to promote international cooperation by working alongside peers from conflict regions, learning how to foster mutual respect and understanding across political, cultural, and national divides.
- Hansen Fellows will develop valuable skills in mediation, communication, and negotiation, essential for careers in diplomacy, international relations, peacebuilding, and human rights advocacy.
- Hansen Fellows become part of a global alumni community, committed to peace and positive change. This network provides ongoing support, collaboration opportunities, and access to resources for future peace and leadership projects.
Eligibility Criteria for the Hansen Leadership Institute Scholarship
- Non-U.S. Students (from conflict zones or regions of social strife)
- Must be an upper-division undergraduate or graduate student with at least two years of college/university coursework completed.
- Aged 20-25 at the start of the program.
- Must demonstrate leadership potential through community involvement or academic achievements.
- Proficiency in English (verified by an academic advisor or professor).
- Must hold a valid international passport by the start of the program.
- Preference will be given to students who have never visited the U.S.
- U.S. Students
- Upper-division undergraduate or graduate student with a focus on international relations, diplomacy, economic development, or related fields.
- Aged 20-25 at the start of the program.
- Must demonstrate leadership potential through community service, public service, or involvement with an NGO.
Important Dates for the Leadership Development Program in the USA 2025
- International Application Deadline: January 10, 2025
- U.S. Application Deadline: March 10, 2025
- Program Dates: July 1 – July 23, 2025
- Selection Results: International applicants will receive their results by mid to late March 2025.
How to Apply for the Fully Funded Leadership Exchange Program
- Visit the official Hansen Leadership Institute website and click on the “Apply Now” tab to access the application portal. Create an account and complete the online application before the deadline.
- Required Documents
- Transcripts: Official transcripts from your college or university.
- Two Evaluative Statements (Recommendation Letters):
- One from an academic advisor or professor verifying your English proficiency.
- One from an NGO or community organization with whom you’ve worked, showcasing your leadership potential.
- Passport: A valid passport (or proof of application) by the start of the program.
- Ensure all sections of the application are completed, including transcripts and recommendation forms. Applications will not be reviewed until all required documents are submitted.
For further details about the program, visit the official Hansen Leadership Insititute website.