About the ALIA Institute

The ALIA Institute brings together systems-oriented tools and perspectives with the values and practices of authentic leadership, creating a unique and powerful support for leaders who are navigating through tumultuous times. 

The Institute's integrative approach comes from two major streams of influence. One is leading edge: the new-paradigm thinking, research, and tools emerging from adaptive systems and complexity theory, chaordic design, Theory U, social networking theory, strength-based community development, and other related disciplines. The other has ancient roots: the deep and rigorous understanding of mindfulness and authentic presence that runs through Shambhala and other contemplative traditions.

These "outer and inner" domains are actually two sides of the same coin, and both are key. Without frameworks and methodologies designed for systemic change, we are left frustrated on the sidelines, unable to plan and implement effectively in times of uncertainty. Without holistic and flexible ways of thinking, perceiving, and knowing, we tend to repeat the patterns of the past, regardless of the tools we use. When these two domains come together, we are able to invite greater levels of authenticity and meaning into our workplaces, while creating the solutions we seek. 

For nine years the week-long Shambhala Summer Institute has convened annually in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Thinking partners and faculty include Margaret Wheatley, Juanita Brown, Toke Moeller, Marianne Knuth, Peter Senge, Art Kleiner, Bill Torbert, and a team of Shambhala artists and meditation teachers. The Institute's leadership-development model blends intensive skill-building modules facilitated by pioneers in their fields, mindfulness meditation, creative process, and plenary dialogues. The Summer Institute has strengthened the leadership of thousands of people around the world and has resulted in countless new initiatives and collaborations.

Since 2008 the Institute has taken this program model to other locations, such as central and western Canada, and Europe. We have also engaged in partnerships with aligned organizations such as the Human Systems Dynamics Institute, the Presencing Institute, United Way Toronto, and Context Consulting. In our home province of Nova Scotia, we partnered with the United Way Halifax Region in 2005 to found Envision Halifax, which is dedicated to cultivating a culture of civic engagement. More recently, we have come together with partners NS Economic and Rural Development, NS Health Promotion and Protection, The Coady Institute, and the NS Community College to found an innovative capacity-building project called Rural Communities Leading.

The ALIA Institute is an independent nonprofit organization based in Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Governing Council

Marty Janowitz (Chair)
Phil Cass (Chair Emeritus)
Claudia Chender
Michael Chender (Founding Chair)
Aftab Erfan
Matt Habash
John Roy
Susan Skjei
Sera Thompson

Staff

Susan Szpakowski (Exec. Dir.)
Gwen D'Ambrogi
Karen Densmore
Ryan Watson