Moral Leadership in the Innovation Age
Program Description:
Learn how to navigate the complex ethical landscape of the 21st-century with an executive education program designed to fit a busy schedule: three, two-hour virtual sessions followed by four, in-person sessions at Teachers College, Columbia University.
Developed in partnership with Union Theological Seminary (Union), and drawing on the combined expertise of Union’s Technology, Innovation, and Digital Engagement Lab (TIDEL), and the Adult Learning and Leadership program at Teachers College, Columbia University, Moral Leadership in the Innovation Age equips values-driven leaders with frameworks for ethical decision-making in an era of rapid technological transformation.
Whether you lead a nonprofit organization, educational institution, faith community, or government agency, you'll explore how timeless moral principles apply to contemporary challenges, including artificial intelligence, digital ethics, social justice, and organizational transformation. Through a multifaith, non-denominational lens, the program examines how leaders can maintain moral integrity while navigating innovation, building inclusive communities, and addressing the ethical implications of emerging technologies.
Participants will engage with case studies, interactive discussions, and practical tools for ethical leadership, learning to bridge enduring moral traditions with modern challenges. The hybrid format includes virtual sessions on October 15, October 29, and December 3 (7–9pm EST) and in-person sessions November 16–19 at Teachers College, Columbia University. Participants who complete the program will receive a digital badge.
Dates & Registration
Dates: October 15 – December 3, 2026
Format: Hybrid
- Virtual sessions on October 15, October 29, and December 3 (7–9pm EDT)
- In-person sessions November 16–19 at Teachers College, Columbia University and Union Theological Seminary
Price:
- Non-residential - $3,250.00
- Residential - $3,750.00*
For more information, questions, or to register: Email tcacademy@tc.columbia.edu
* It is strongly recommended to reserve housing at the time of registration. Accommodation through TC Housing is assigned on a first come first served basis because of the limited availability of rooms.
Instructors
Dr. Gabby Cudjoe Wilkes is The Director of the Technology, Innovation & Digital Engagement Lab (TIDEL) Fellowship & Programs at Union Theological Seminary. Her work convenes scholars, technologists, founders, and faith leaders around the ethical, social, and human implications of emerging technologies. She is a pastor, public theologian, professor and institution builder exploring how the rapid pace of innovation is reshaping communities, leadership, work, and human flourishing. Dr. Gabby is a graduate of Duke University (D. Min), Yale University (M. Div.), New York University (M.A) and Hampton University (B.A.).
Dr. Brian K. Perkins is a Professor of Practice at Teachers College, Columbia University, where he directs the Summer Principals Academy master's degree program in New York City and New Orleans, having previously led the College's doctoral program in Urban Education Leadership. He is an internationally sought consultant who has worked across the U.S., Brazil, South Africa, China, India, and beyond. He served 11 years as President of the New Haven Board of Education and held national leadership roles with organizations, including the National School Boards Association. As Principal Investigator of the landmark urban school climate studies Where We Learn, Where We Teach, and What We Think, he developed the widely distributed American School Climate Inventory. He holds degrees from Grambling State University, the Yale School of Medicine, and Teachers College, Columbia University.
Learning Objectives
At the completion of this course, participants will be able to:
- Develop a framework for ethical decision-making and moral leadership.
- Evaluate innovation processes within mission-driven organizations and understand the intersection of technology, innovation, and organizational change.
- Analyze the moral, equitable, and social justice implications of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies for organizations and communities.
- Apply strategies for balancing short-term needs, long-term sustainability, mission alignment, and ethical considerations in organizational innovation.
- Navigate a dynamic leadership simulation involving decisions about the adoption of emerging technologies in mission-driven institutions.
Who Should Attend
This 6 session (3 live, 3 virtual) executive education program is designed for leaders across sectors who are committed to leading with integrity in an increasingly complex world. Ideal participants include nonprofit executives, educational administrators, government officials, faith community leaders, and organizational leaders navigating the intersection of ethics, technology, and social impact. No religious affiliation is required. This program welcomes leaders of all religious/spiritual backgrounds.
Upon Completion
Participants who successfully complete this executive education program will earn a verified Certificate of Participation and an official Digital Badge—valuable credentials that showcase your commitment to professional growth and can be shared on LinkedIn or digital portfolios.
View our sample program badge and certificate below:
Important Notice: This is a non-credit program. Completion does not provide academic credit toward any degree program at Teachers College or other institutions. No transcript credit will be awarded.
Upon Completion
Teachers College Guest Housing
Enroll early to take advantage of TC Guest Housing options included in cost. Learn more about guest housing and make a reservation here.
Hotels
Union has negotiated discounted room rates with Renaissance Hotel Harlem. Use this special discount link to book your stay.