In the Arena
A restorative seminar for Aspen Fellows leading U.S. civic and social change, focused on resilience, reflection, and building a supportive peer community.
Funder: Aspen Institute
Due Dates: August 27–30, 2026 (Cohort 1) | November 17–20, 2026 (Cohort 2)
Funding Amounts: No participation fee; limited travel assistance available; participants cover their own travel.
Summary: Seminar-based restorative experience for Aspen Fellows leading civic and social change in the U.S., focused on resilience, courage, and community.
Key Information: Both 2026 cohorts are currently waitlisted; email to join the waitlist.
Description
This program, organized by the Aspen Global Leadership Network in partnership with the McNulty Foundation, brings together Aspen Fellows who are leading civic and social change efforts in the United States. The initiative is designed as a restorative, seminar-based experience to help leaders renew themselves, strengthen their courage, and build a sustaining community with peers facing similar challenges. Each cohort attends a long weekend seminar at a restorative U.S. location, engaging in immersive dialogues, time in nature, and somatic practices to foster reflection, resilience, and collective visioning. The program aims to equip high-impact leaders with the support and space needed to continue their work in challenging times.
