All About JA Global Orientation

JA Global Orientation (JA GO) by JA University is JA Worldwide’s global onboarding and orientation experience, designed to welcome staff, new and old, into our mission, vision, values, and worldwide community. Through a month-long series of live interactive sessions, JA GO connects colleagues across regions, introduces key strategies, and fosters cohort connections that last beyond the program. It’s not only an introduction to what we do—but also how we work together as one global team.

JA GO Leaders

Erin Sawyer, Chief People Development Officer, JA Worldwide

Jeff Hittner, Consultant, JA Worldwide

Staff feedback from a recent cohort

“I want to express my gratitude for the insightful global orientation, which allowed me to appreciate each area and the individuals behind these challenges. Particularly, I found the IPS and impact score sessions valuable. My favorite aspect was the opportunity to connect with participants from around the world in the break rooms. It was enriching to meet and learn from such a diverse group of colleagues.”

“Some of the most valuable onboarding I have ever done. Thanks!”

“JA GO is perfect. I hope it happens often.”

“What stood out the most was the opportunity to connect with other JA staff from around the world to celebrate how we are all doing the same things . . . but in unique ways.”


JA GO Session Library

April–May 2026 JA GO

Session 1: Getting to know each other, Fundraising, Bonding

JA GO Kickoff

JA staff members got to learn about the JA Worldwide Fundraising. They got to connect and know one-another with Open Mics and JA Speed Dating.

Session 2: History and Org Structure, Cybersecurity and Bonding 

JA History &

Cybersecurity

As a global organization, risks of security breaches are particularly big. JA staff members got to learn strategies to improve JA's own defenses: from password protection to phishing campaigns to watch out for.

Session 3: Theory of Change, OneJA and the JA Brand

Change & Branding

Learn about our research-based Theory of Change and the key education initiatives JA is invested in around the globe.

Session 4: JA Mission-Vision-Values and Education Programs

JA Education Programs

Today's focus was a unique activity around JA and our own personal values followed by an introduction to JA Education Programs including the community you can join to stay up-to-date on new initiatives and programs.

Session 5: IPS and Impact Score

  • Watch the session recording (Passcode: xTd69$rD)

  • Download the slide deck (PPT)

Session 6: Risks – Financial Sustainability, Integrity and Risk

  • Download the slide deck (PPT)

Session 7: JA Alumni 

  • Download the slide deck (PPT)

Session 8: Strategic Plan and bringing it all together!

Click here to receive your JA GO Certification once you have completed this session.