Meridian Global Leadership Institute
Preparing the Next Generation of Global Leaders
Meridian International Center’s Global Leadership Institute is where tomorrow’s changemakers begin their journey. Through immersive summer programs in Washington, D.C., ambitious high school and college students from around the world gain the skills, networks, and confidence to thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape.
Whether your future lies in diplomacy, business, law, or public service, Meridian's Global Leadership Institute provides the experiences and connections that set you apart in college, graduate school, and beyond.
Our Programs
Future Leaders Academy (High School)
A one-week, pre-college intensive that takes students behind the scenes of diplomacy. Participants meet with diplomatic leaders, visit embassies and institutions, and practice negotiation and crisis management through simulations.
Why Meridian?
With a 65-year legacy in diplomacy, Meridian International Center has prepared leaders at every level of government, business, and society. More than 180 current and former Heads of State are alumni of Meridian programs.
By joining the Leadership Institute, students tap into:
-
Unparalleled insight into Washington’s diplomatic and policy networks
-
Mentorship from global leaders across sectors
-
A prestigious institution recognized worldwide for advancing international collaboration
Upcoming Cohorts
What Participants Say
“This Fellowship has expanded my network to include seasoned professionals within various careers of foreign service, international relations, and diplomacy. By participating in this fellowship, it will improve my ability to gain experience at different internships and program opportunities in related fields so that I can start my own path to a career in diplomacy.”
— 2025 Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship Participant
“My personal learning goals for this fellowship were to become more comfortable with networking and to demystify the complexities of the Foreign Service... I am pleased to say that I have achieved my goals, emerging from this fellowship with a deeper understanding of the Foreign Service and greater ease in navigating networking environments.”
— 2024 Meridian-Cox Foreign Service Fellowship Participant
Ready to Lead on the World Stage?
Learn more about our programs and apply today