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Federal Executive Institute
Leadership for a Democratic Society

Overview

The themes of FEI’s Leadership for a Democratic Society program reflect and enhance the Constitutional underpinning of federal government work and the common culture of senior federal executives. At FEI, executives explore and build their knowledge and skills in:

  • Values-based leadership – exploring the Constitutional and democratic roots of American society, examining personal leadership styles, and relating personal to organizational values.
  • Transforming organizations – learning to lead positive change through effective strategic thinking and action planning, building coalitions and commitment, and creating positive learning environments.
  • Policy in a constitutional system – understanding the unique context of leadership in the public sector and working effectively in the dynamic policy environment of the federal government.
  • Global perspectives – understanding major trends in global affairs, recognizing global interconnectedness, and thinking like a citizen of the world.

FEI’s Leadership for a Democratic Society brings together executives from 25 to 30 domestic and defense agencies for a unique, four-week residential learning experience. Benefits reported by graduates of FEI’s Leadership for a Democratic Society program include:

  • Keen insights into their leadership strengths and areas for development
  • Improved leadership and management skills, especially in such areas as team building, influencing/negotiating, strategic thinking, political savvy, and external awareness
  • Improved organizational performance as a result of what was learned and later applied back on the job
  • Dramatically larger networks for enhanced problem solving
  • Increased appreciation for the importance of Federal service and increased understanding of the diverse talents of Federal executives
  • Broader understanding of the Constitution, the policy framework in which executives must lead, and the interplay among major stakeholders at the national level
  • Improved personal wellness and balance in one’s life

The Leadership for a Democratic Society program has been approved for 12 graduate credit hours by the American Council on Education. Provision of graduate credit is subject to college/university policy.