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UCLA Anderson Executive Education Unveils New Board Director Program

UCLA Anderson Executive Education has recently announced the launch of its new Board Director Program, a comprehensive four-month initiative tailored to equip current and aspiring board members with the necessary skills to excel in today’s dynamic corporate landscape. The program is developed in collaboration with Emeritus, a prominent global leader in making quality education accessible and affordable. The first cohort kicks off in February 2026.

Navigating Today’s Complex Governance Landscape

As industries face increased disruption from digital transformation, ESG accountability, and heightened stakeholder expectations, the need for adept governance has never been more critical. The Board Director Program, accredited by the National Association of Corporate Directors (NACD), aims not only to provide foundational knowledge but also to cultivate advanced governance expertise. Participants will delve into topics including board digital governance, financial oversight, ESG and sustainability integration, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity.

Professor Carla Hayn, PhD, who serves as the co-faculty director of the program, emphasizes the urgent need for visionary leaders in boardrooms: “Today’s boardrooms require more than oversight; they demand visionary leaders who can bring strategic clarity, ethical judgment, and innovative leadership.” The curriculum is designed to transform complex concepts into actionable outcomes that can significantly impact an organization’s direction and growth.

Learning Experience

The Board Director Program combines both live online learning sessions and a five-day immersive experience on the UCLA Anderson campus, located in Los Angeles. This hybrid model allows participants to engage in practical exercises such as case studies, simulations, and mock board meetings where they can apply governance frameworks and hone their decision-making capabilities. Additionally, individualized coaching and peer learning circles will help them craft personalized action plans aimed at enhancing their long-term impact in the boardroom.

Upon completing the program, participants will earn a digital certificate, achieve UCLA alumni status and benefits, accrue 15 recertification credits applicable towards NACD Directorship Certification®, and have the option to pursue an additional board certification pathway.

Building a Future of Governance

Mike Malefakis, president of university partnerships at Emeritus, underscores the significance of this program in today’s ever-evolving governance reality: “The UCLA Anderson Board Director Program equips leaders with the governance expertise, financial acumen, and leadership skills necessary to navigate today’s rapidly evolving boardroom landscape.”

The program is ideal for a variety of professionals including senior executives, C-suite leaders, current board members, as well as investors and advisors involved in governance roles or those seeking to enter the boardroom.

Commitment to Educational Excellence

UCLA Anderson Executive Education remains at the forefront of business education. Its collaboration with Emeritus allows participants to benefit from a unique model of innovative curriculum, cutting-edge technology, and real-world instructional insights from experienced faculty and industry leaders. Together, they are fostering the next generation of board directors who will drive impactful change within their organizations.

With the first session set to begin on February 26, 2026, interested individuals are encouraged to apply and embark on this transformative journey toward effective governance.

For more information or to apply, visit the official program website.