Contact
E-mail: info@internationalcenter.org
Telephone: (317) 955-5150
Fax: (317) 955-5160
The International Center
One Indiana Square, Suite 2000
Indianapolis, IN 46204 U.S.A
Who was James T. Morris?
James T. Morris was a recognized local, national, and global leader in the corporate, civic, and non-profit sectors. Among his many roles, he was a long-serving International Center board member and an active emeritus board member. As the namesake of this leadership series, his life and career embody international leadership through his application of a global mindset and cultural intelligence across roles that spanned government, business, and humanitarian positions. Jim remained actively engaged in the eponymous series as a speaker and role model.
Now in its fifth year, the James T. Morris Leadership Series continues to be unique in Indiana. The series equips professionals with hands-on experience and knowledge of international commerce and intercultural communication to better prepare our state’s leaders for a global marketplace. After his passing, supporting the series is a meaningful way to honor his remarkable legacy and uphold his dedication to developing globally-minded leaders in Indiana.
What is The International Center?
Since 1973, The International Center has served Indiana as a catalyst for international growth and as a guide to the world’s cultural landscape. The Center envisions an Indiana that embraces a global economy, values all cultures, and is a vibrant place to live and work.
The International Center is Indiana’s trusted advisor for all things international, with decades of experience in helping government, corporate and nonprofit partners successfully work across cultures.
What is the James T. Morris Global Leadership Series?
Founded in 2020 and presented by Buckingham Foundation and the Herbert Simon Family Foundation in 2025, the Morris Series is a unique professional development program delivered annually over five full-day monthly sessions. The selected cohort will expand their cultural knowledge through a collaborative curriculum, while convening and connecting established and rising global leadership.
Participants in each cohort learn about global leadership from a mix of keynote speakers, panelists, facilitated dialogue and collaborative activities. Each session will be hosted by an organization with a key role in Indiana’s global landscape and offer time for networking with speakers, hosts and guests.
Morris Series cohort members are Indiana-based professionals who demonstrate business or civic leadership with a global component and have a sincere interest in building their skills and professional network.
Individuals or organizations looking for an introduction to intercultural training should contact The International Center for opportunities outside of the Morris Series.
Who are the speakers?
Session keynote speakers and panelists will be Indiana-based leaders representing The International Center’s partners, including corporate, government and philanthropic organizations. Speakers will be announced through the spring and summer.
What is the location and format for this year’s Morris Series?
The 2025 Morris Series will be held in-person at varying locations across Indianapolis.
Due to the collaborative and interactive nature of the sessions, virtual or hybrid options will not be available for the 2025 Series.
What is the 2025 schedule?
Sessions will be held monthly on Fridays from approximately 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Exact daily agendas are to be announced.
- August 15
- September 19
- October 24
- November 14
- December 12
Dates are subject to change based on host availability.
How do I apply?
Please complete the online form on The International Center’s website. Include an up-to-date resume or CV with your application and be prepared to answer a few questions about your leadership and global experience.
The 2025 application will be available March 1 through April 30.
What are the expectations of participants?
Attendance and participation are expected at all James T. Morris Global Leadership Series events.
Participants who do not meet the attendance requirements may not be eligible for alumni status.
What is the program fee?
Tuition for the James T. Morris Global Leadership Series is subsidized by the generosity of our sponsors to $1,190 per person.
What if I can’t afford the full program fee?
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, The International Center is proud to offer full and partial sponsorships to select applicants. Sponsorships are limited and very competitive.