"Over the years, I had grown a bit cynical about all kinds of management and leadership training programs, which often promise a lot but in the end do not give a lot. However, the Senior Managers in Government program turned out to be a superb experience. It was well-planned, the teachers were top of their trade, and the participants turned out to be a really friendly and joyful crowd. I was particularly pleased with the interactive method used in the classes, which was the very opposite of the boring lectures you so often have to contend with. There were various opportunities to befriend other participants and spend good time with them. In sum, a splendid three weeks at Harvard University!"
Antti Kusmanen Director General for External Economic Relations-
Ministry for Foreign Affairs, Finland
"I decided to enter public service to make a real difference, and it was my hope that entering the (Senior Executives in State and Local Government) program would further strengthen my effectiveness in government. The Program itself, as well as the input from the other participants, did indeed sharpen my public advocacy skills. But it did far more than that—it changed my life, as I believe my participation changed the lives of the other participants. I highly recommend this program. " New York State Senator Thomas K. Duane (Manhattan) - February 2004
"The Senior Managers in Government program is unparalleled in its academic content, but I found the access to the alumni programs of the Kennedy School to be just as rewarding. I find myself coming back to Cambridge at least once a year for seminars, alumni refreshers or reunions - and just to be inspired. Having the entire network of Kennedy School available has been of very real value to my career development."
Svend Olling Head of IT Department-
Royal Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs
"My experience in the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program was truly amazing. The coursework offered fresh ideas and new perspectives to those of us committed to public service. It made us realize what we are truly able to accomplish on behalf of the people we represent. I believe the friendships and associations that were developed in those three weeks will last a lifetime. " Chris Castillian, Deputy Chief of Staff, Governor Bill Owens - June 2003
"If I attended this program again, I would learn new things that I missed the first time around. That's how comprehensive and intensive the Program for Senior Executives in State and Local Government is. The Harvard and Cambridge experience was something I'll never forget. I'm a better public manager and more skilled in the exercise of leadership because of my experience at Harvard. " David A. Clarke, Jr., Sheriff, Milwaukee County, Wisconsin
"I am proud to say that, largely as a result of my having attended the Women and Power program, I was recently named 2004 Woman Entrepreneur of the Year by the Women’s Business Development Center.”
Alison Chung President- Teamwerks
"The program provided me with a unique opportunity to work with world class faculty and top policy makers from a wide range of different countries in an intensive policy driven environment. I gained invaluable insights into policy developments and challenges from the formal seminar sessions, from the structured syndicate group assignments and from the informal exchanges and contacts with faculty and other participants. These contacts and insights continue to influence my work in Ireland and the development of public policy in Ireland on Science, Technology and Innovation"
Don Thornhill, Executive Chairman, Higher Education Authority, Dublin Ireland
