Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1

What does the seminar cost?

Accepted Answer

A $1,000 non-refundable deposit is required to secure a spot in the seminar. The deposit is due by July 1st, 2026.

Question 2

Will I receive a certificate?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Participants will receive a certificate from the University of San Diego and a badge you can publish on their LinkedIn profile and online presence. Upon completion, you will become a USD Global Fellow.

Question 3

Are the travel costs included in the fees?

Accepted Answer

Program fees include all transportation associated with the seminar, including flights to and from Spain and Rwanda, all in-country transportation, and transportation to and from all scheduled site visits. Lodging in Spain and Rwanda is also included. Program materials and most meals throughout the program are included, with the exception of a few select meals in each location.

Question 4

What can I expect from the daily schedule of the seminar?

Accepted Answer

The seminar begins in San Diego in January with an opening evening reception on Sunday, January 10, 2027. Program sessions run from Monday, January 11, through Wednesday, January 13, with a mix of on-campus sessions and site visits during the day. The San Diego portion concludes with a closing reception on Wednesday afternoon.

In Spain, the seminar runs from April 11–17, 2027, beginning with a welcome dinner on Sunday evening, April 11. Program days take place Monday through Friday, with sessions and site visits scheduled from approximately 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The Spain portion concludes with a closing dinner on Friday evening, followed by departure on Saturday.

The Rwanda segment takes place from July 25–30, 2027, beginning with a welcome reception on Sunday, July 25. Program activities and site visits are scheduled Monday through Friday, with full days primarily based in Kigali and concluding in Musanze.

The seminar concludes with a final on-campus session in San Diego on October 15–16, 2027.

Question 5

How are the visits structured in each country?

Accepted Answer

We will visit each location for 2-3 hours. At each location we will have an overview of the organization’s operations, a tour and an opportunity to talk with key staff members. We will also meet with panels of executives representing a variety of other companies and organizations.

Question 6

Are there any prerequisites or specific qualifications required to apply?

Accepted Answer

We are seeking people who are interested in integrating social and environmental sustainability into their own organizations or serve as board members on private and/or nonprofit boards and desire to help that organization be a force for good. Or, perhaps you may be transitioning to the next act in your life and you are looking to contribute to the world. If so, then this is the prerequisite for the seminar.

Question 7

Who makes the travel arrangements?

Accepted Answer

All travel arrangements for the seminar are coordinated by the program team. This includes flights, lodging, and transportation associated with the seminar. Participants will receive detailed travel information and itineraries in advance.

Question 8

Can I attend one trip but not all three trips?

Accepted Answer

No. The program is based on visits to all three countries and your Personal Action Plan will be related to our visits and the seminar content.

Question 9

How much time will we be spending each month on the online sessions and homework?

Accepted Answer

During the months when we are not traveling (February, March, May, June), we will hold a 90-minute Zoom session each month. Participants will receive access to a centralized online resource hub where all program materials will be available upon registration.

Each month will include a small, curated set of readings, podcasts, and videos designed to take approximately 1–2 hours to complete. Additional optional materials will also be available for deeper exploration of the seminar themes. Participants will also receive suggested cultural and travel readings related to each program location.

Question 10

What is the Personal Action Plan and who will consult with me on the plan?

Accepted Answer

You will develop a Personal action Plan — a detailed framework for applying the lessons learned in the seminar — providing a personal and professional roadmap for how various “business for good” models can be applied to your business, community venture or the next phase of your life’s work. In August and September, you can arrange zoom ‘Office Hours’ with any of our Program Consultants listed on this website.

Question 11

Can I bring a guest to the travel locations? Can my guest attend meals and entertainment activities with me?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can bring a guest and that person can participate in any cultural events or group dinners. A nominal fee to cover expenses will be charged.

Question 12

What is the refund policy?

Accepted Answer

The $1,000 program deposit is non-refundable. Once the deposit is paid, no refunds will be issued under any circumstances. If a participant is unable to attend, the deposit may be eligible for referral to another individual on a case-by-case basis, subject to program approval. For questions regarding referrals or participation options, please contact Paula directly.

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