Oglethorpe University, Atlanta’s prestigious liberal arts and sciences institution, has been named the academic partner institution of Global LEAD, which provides college students with innovative study abroad and cultural experiences in Ecuador, Greece and Cape Town, South Africa.

This partnership allows students from all over the world to earn college credit through Global LEAD in two courses focusing on Leadership and Service. Global LEAD programs partnered with Oglethorpe to create and deliver academically rigorous coursework to students.  As part of the partnership, Oglethorpe University has accredited each Global LEAD program and approved all academic faculty, syllabi, course pedagogy and materials.

Oglethorpe University’s strategic vision focuses on “building an intellectual foundation for a life, not just a job,” which aligns perfectly with Global LEAD’s innovative model of providing a unique international experience based on the core tenets of “Leadership, Education, Adventure and Diplomacy” (LEAD). 

“We are thrilled to partner with such an innovative university that shares our passion for leadership, community service and personal development. With Oglethorpe University, Global LEAD is able to deepen our emphasis on the components of L.E.A.D. and expand to any country on the map,” said Robbie Reese, Global LEAD CEO. 

“Global LEAD’s mission complements Oglethorpe’s commitment to providing students with hands-on learning opportunities and experiences to expand upon classroom learning,” said Dr. Lawrence M. Schall, President of Oglethorpe University. “We’ve observed firsthand the value and positive impact of study abroad and community service. Students who participate in these programs become responsible, thoughtful citizens of the world.”

Students participating in summer 2013 Global LEAD program in Ecuador, Greece or Cape Town, South Africa will receive six transferable credits from Oglethorpe University in Leadership in Action and Global Citizenship and Service.

Global LEAD is an innovative, purpose-driven organization, focused on leading transformative experiences at home and abroad. Rather than abiding by the status quo, we believe students should be able to combine the benefits of a studying abroad, international service and backpacking adventures into a holistic experience that truly changes their lives. Through our academic partnership with Oglethorpe University, we create, organize and lead adventures abroad to three continents, where we challenge participants to stretch beyond their comfort zone, engage in dialogue with cutting-edge leaders, explore education outside the classroom, experience the adrenaline rush of extreme adventures and serve local communities. For more information about Global LEAD, please visit our website at www.GlobalLEADprogram.org.

Founded in 1835, Oglethorpe University is a leading liberal arts and sciences university which enrolls 1,100 students representing 34 states and 28 countries. Oglethorpe has been named among U.S. News & World Report’s Best Liberal Arts Colleges, Forbes’ America’s Best Colleges, and Princeton Review’s Best Southeastern College in its 2012 edition of The Best 376 Colleges. Oglethorpe is a member of the Annapolis Group, an organization of America’s most selective liberal arts institutions. For seven consecutive years, Oglethorpe has been named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for commitment to and achievement in community service. Oglethorpe is home to the Oglethorpe University Museum of Art and to Georgia Shakespeare, the professional theater-in- residence. OU competes in the NCAA Division III Southern Athletic Association. Website: www.oglethorpe.edu.