Program Overview

The Stanford Leadership Experience: Science, Innovation, and Resilience is an executive education experience crafted for senior business leaders and board members who are looking to gain strategic foresight to help them lead with clarity, courage, and purpose in the face of profound transformation.

This five day transformational journey blends dynamic classroom learning with immersive, real-world experiences. Through eye-opening excursions, exclusive access to pioneering scientists, policymakers, and innovators you will witness sustainability challenges firsthand, gaining the perspective and conviction needed to navigate uncertainty, integrate sustainability into core business strategy, and build a more resilient future—for yourself, your organization, and the world. Participants will emerge equipped not only to respond to disruption, but to lead their organizations toward future-fit growth.

Key Program Themes

Build a Clear Foundation in Sustainability Science: Gain a grounded, science-based understanding of sustainability and the global shifts shaping business today—from climate and nature to the factors that support healthy, thriving communities.
Understand the Intersection of Sustainability With Business Functions: Participants will explore the intersection of sustainability with various business areas such as human resources, finance, marketing, technology, legal, and operations, and come away with key insights as to how sustainability can be effectively integrated across their organizations.
Navigate Global Sustainability Policies and Regulations: Understand the major regulations and expectations influencing companies today. Leave with clarity on what matters, why it's happening, and how to respond in ways that support innovation and business stability.
Lead With Purpose and Self-Awareness: Build on the values, impact, and leadership instincts you already practice. Refine your mindset and elevate your strategies to advance meaningful sustainability outcomes and long-term organizational success.
Experience Sustainability’s Urgency and Promise: Step into the heart of global challenges—witness fragile ecosystems, hear how industries and communities are responding to uncertain future water supplies, and stand at the edge of rising seas. Through immersive excursions, see how industries and communities are innovating, adapting, and creating new possibilities - reinforcing both the urgency and the promise of sustainable leadership.
Join a Future-Focused Leadership Network: Collaborate with senior executives and thought leaders who are advancing sustainability in meaningful ways. Become part of a community committed to practical solutions and long-term business success.

Who Should Enroll?

This program is for C-suite executives, senior leaders, and board members looking to expand their perspective on sustainability and its role in shaping resilient, future-ready organizations. In a dynamic peer environment, you’ll explore new ideas, test assumptions, and gain fresh insights.

For leaders committed to long-term business health, the program provides tools and perspectives that strengthen clear, confident, and purposeful decision-making.

Faculty

The program is taught by leading experts from across Stanford University and WBCSD in sustainability science, business strategy, public policy, and leadership. Our faculty and industry guest speakers bring real-world experience and cutting-edge research to the classroom and excursions, offering participants a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical insights.

Format & Location

Held on campus at Stanford and at various hands-on day trips throughout Northern California, the program provides participants with the unique opportunity to engage with researchers, experts in the field, companies, and communities all striving for a more sustainable future.

Interested in learning more?

Contact Riley Stevens at rdsteven@stanford.edu

Please include: Your Full Name, email Contact, Reason for interest, and From whom you heard about the program.