Global Leadership Fellows Explore Geopolitics and Diplomacy at The Carter Center

By Jaidyn Gambrell 

Published: January 23, 2026

The Global Leadership Fellows (GLF) program cultivates globally minded leaders prepared to navigate complexity, build consensus, and lead with purpose. That mission came to life on January 23, 2026, when Fellows gathered at The Carter Center and the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum for the Geopolitics & Diplomacy Master Class — an immersive day of expert insight, applied learning, and real-world perspective.  

As one of GLF's six core pillars, Geopolitics & Diplomacy challenged Fellows to examine how global power dynamics influence decision-making across sectors — from business and public policy to civil society. Conversations reframed diplomacy, not merely as a function confined to foreign policy, but as a leadership discipline essential to navigating today’s interconnected world. 

Leadership Through Diplomacy

Throughout the day, Fellows explored geopolitics and diplomacy as a practice rooted in negotiation, cultural intelligence, adaptability, and strategic thinking. Sessions emphasized that modern leadership requires listening across differences, balancing competing interests, and making informed decisions under constraint. 

Consul General Rachel Galloway of the British Consulate General in Atlanta opened the program with insights on how diplomats think and operate—balancing national priorities, sustaining long-term relationships, and navigating practical limitations. A panel discussion featuring Consul General Frank Groome of Ireland, Consul General Alana Lomonaco Busto of Argentina, and First Consul Andrea Rojas Charry of Colombia offered perspectives from Europe and Latin America. Together, they illustrated how nations navigate shifting geopolitics realities — and how those global currents shape Atlanta’s economic and civic landscapes. 

In the afternoon, General Phillip M. Breedlove, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, led an interactive case study on alliance-based decision-making. His session explored coalition-building, consensus under pressure, and leadership in moments of uncertainty. 

The day concluded with a leadership coaching session led by Dr. Leigh Anne Liu, professor and director of the Institute of International Business at Georgia State University. Focusing on conflict resolution and negotiation, she equipped Fellows with practical tools to bridge differences and reach mutual alignment in both professional and personal contexts.  

Grounded in Legacy 

A guided discovery tour of the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum grounded the day in historical perspective. By reflecting on President Carter’s legacy in diplomacy, human rights, and global engagement, Fellows connected past leadership lessons to contemporary global challenges. The experience underscored a core tenant of the GLF program: leadership development is not theoretical—it is experiential and grounded in real-world context.  

Looking Ahead 

Applications for the GLF 2027 cohort are open. Early-career professionals ready to expand their global perspective and lead with greater insight and purpose are encouraged to apply. 

Learn more 

View photos from the event here. Flickr