Surface Warfare Officers Graduate from Global Leadership Program

By Lt.j.g. Alanna Strei, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Four Surface Warfare officers graduated from the University of San Diego (USD) School of Business Administration Master of Science in Global Leadership (MSGL) program Aug. 6.

The MSGL program is an interdisciplinary degree that examines the challenges of leadership, ethics and business in the international marketplace.

"The MSGL program uses a blended learning model that combines traditional classroom instruction with on-line learning to provide a cutting edge global business leadership degree that can be achieved while in active duty," said retired Capt. Bob Shoulz, director of the School of Business Administration. "Almost everything we study and discuss has direct application to the decisions military leaders will have to make as they become more senior."

The 16-month program is focused on educating influential community members to make a positive impact on the fast-paced global marketplace by overcoming challenges commonly faced due to cultural boundaries. "We place a high priority on cultural understanding and the role it plays in successful leadership across international and cultural boundaries," Shoulz added.

The program has received great feedback from Surface Warfare graduates.

"Coming back from sea duty and participating in this program has helped to round out my military education," said Lt. Tin Tran, currently serving as fleet liason officer at Naval Surface Warfare Center Corona. "The curriculum complements what I do as a Surface Warfare officer, and I'll go back into the fleet with an expanded global perspective on my role as a naval officer."

The ceremony, held at USD's Joan B. Kroc Institute for Peace and Justice, featured keynote remarks from author Dr. John Stoessinger, recipient of the distinguished Bancroft Prize for History for The Might of Nations, previous acting director for the Political Affairs Division at the United Nations and current distinguished professor of global diplomacy at USD.

"This is a very joyful occasion," Stoessinger said to the new graduates. "I know the education you have received will help you to make more well-informed decisions in your positions as influential members of our global community."

Since its establishment in 1999, the MSGL program has graduated more than 400 leaders from all walks of life, including government, military and business professionals.