I’d like to personally welcome you to the USC Schwarzenegger Institute website where our mission is advancing policy not politics as we seek real world solutions to the challenges facing society.
Arnold Schwarzenegger
Chairman, USC Schwarzenegger Institute
Policy Areas
Founded in 2012 by Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, the Institute is built on his belief that leadership should prioritize people over politics.
Continuing the Governor’s commitment to problem-solving, the Institute tackles key issues from his time in office—creating real-world solutions that benefit California, the United States, and communities worldwide.
Environmental and Energy Policy
Governor Schwarzenegger’s lifelong love of the great outdoors carried into his leadership of California. As Governor, he championed climate and clean energy policies that protected the health of people and the planet. Today, we continue that legacy at the Schwarzenegger Institute by finding bipartisan solutions that seek to terminate pollution, spur economic activity, and create a healthier future for all.
Political Reform and Voter Access
Having the courage to fight for policies that reform political and electoral reform was a trademark of the Schwarzenegger administration and continues with Governor Schwarzenegger’s work today. The Institute prioritizes work around fair and free elections, with a nonpartisan and bipartisan approach, and continues to champion political reforms like independent citizens redistricting commissions, voter access and voting rights, and open and top-two primaries that are all central to making our democracy work for all voters and people.
After-School Education
Governor Schwarzenegger has been an after-school advocate and leader for over 30 years. In 1992, with the help of Bonnie Reiss and Paul Wachter, he launched After-School All-Stars, a non-profit organization that provides comprehensive after-school programming to over 150,000 underserved students each year. The Institute continues to partner with After-School All-Stars and hosts events and spotlights research that shares best practices from successful after-school programs.
Urgent Initiatives Requiring Immediate Response
In addition to focusing on core policy areas, the Schwarzenegger Institute is also responsive to critical issues that need immediate attention. This allows Governor Schwarzenegger and the Institute to apply their policy and research expertise to find solutions for urgent real world problems.
Upcoming Events
Austrian World Summit
We are excited to announce that the Austrian World Summit (AWS) will return to Vienna on June 3, 2025 for its ninth year! This influential conference brings together leaders from all over the world to drive meaningful solutions to our pollution problems.
Arnold Schwarzenegger says it best: “Our motto this year is crystal clear: Unite in Action – Terminate Pollution. The AWS is more than just a conference—it’s a driving force for solutions and progress. Leaders from over 80 countries will come together in Vienna to accelerate real change.”
This year, we will also be shining a spotlight on the first responders who face the challenges of climate-related disasters head-on. These unsung heroes are vital to the fight against climate crises, and we look forward to honoring their efforts and contributions.
We invite you to be part of this momentous event and join us in accelerating progress toward a sustainable future.
