Institute for Global Justice & Diplomacy
The Institute for Global Justice and Diplomacy prepares leaders to navigate complex international systems, foster peace and reconciliation, and uphold justice and human dignity across borders.
The Institute for Global Justice and Diplomacy (IGJD) at Winona State University is a think tank advancing international dialogue, ethical leadership, and global cooperation.
We bring together scholars, diplomats, policymakers, and students to become influential voices in shaping solutions that matter worldwide through research, strategic engagement, and professional training.
Positioned at the intersection of academia, diplomacy, and policy, the IGJD addresses pressing global challenges centered on:
- Justice: Upholding fairness, equity, and human dignity across nations and communities
- Diplomacy: Advancing dialogue, negotiation, and cooperation as pathways to peace
- Integrity: Leading with principle, transparency, and ethical responsibility
- Innovation: Generating forward-looking research and practical solutions to global challenges
- Collaboration: Building partnerships across borders, disciplines, and institutions
Focus Areas
Advancing scholarship and advocacy to safeguard human dignity, strengthen international legal frameworks, and guide policymakers in addressing systemic inequities and human rights challenges worldwide.
Preparing leaders to engage effectively in multilateral institutions, negotiations, and strategic alliances that define the future of global governance and international collaboration.
Designing and advancing strategies to prevent, mitigate, and resolve conflicts in fragile and divided societies, while promoting reconciliation and sustainable peace.
Fostering mutual understanding across cultures, faiths, and regions to counter division, build trust, and advance cooperation in an increasingly interconnected world.
Programs & Initiatives
The Institute for Global Justice and Diplomacy (IGJD) offers high-impact programs that blend education, research, and engagement. Each initiative is designed to prepare leaders, inform policy, and foster international cooperation.
From certificate programs to global lecture series, IGJD offers unique opportunities for students, scholars, and practitioners to engage with the most critical challenges shaping diplomacy, justice, and peace.
You will explore diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights, and peacebuilding through expert-led seminars and real-world case studies.
Upon completion, you will receive a Certificate in Diplomacy, Conflict Resolution & Peacebuilding from Winona State’s Institute for Global Justice and Diplomacy during a recognition ceremony.
These events elevate Winona State’s role in shaping global dialogue and connect students and faculty with policymakers and thought leaders driving change on the world stage.
Fellows play a vital role in shaping ideas that inform policy, strengthen institutions, and inspire global understanding.
Participants will also collaborate with international experts, gaining guidance that enhances their academic, professional, and leadership growth.
Contact
About the Director
Dr. Mohamed Ahmed is an accomplished scholar-practitioner with extensive experience in higher education, international affairs, national security, and public policy. His career spans leadership roles in academia, government, and research institutes, where he has advanced initiatives in diplomacy, counterterrorism, peacebuilding, and civic engagement.
Dr. Ahmed holds a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership from Old Dominion University, a Master’s in Postsecondary Educational Leadership, and a Bachelor’s in International Security and Conflict Resolution from San Diego State University. His academic training in security, conflict, and governance underpins his work bridging scholarship, policy, and practice to address pressing global challenges.
Dr. Ahmed’s work reflects a career dedicated to building bridges across cultures, advancing peace and security, and preparing the next generation of leaders to navigate complex international systems with clarity, integrity, and purpose.