[2][4][5][6] The Albright Institute is notable for its emphasis on women's leadership and its nontraditional approach to international studies, which incorporates research and perspectives on global affairs from disciplines including literature, the fine arts, religion, philosophy, and science.

[1][2] The Albright Institute was established with the intention of addressing world affairs from an unconventionally interdisciplinary approach, setting it apart from traditional international studies programs which emphasize history, political science, and economics.

She cited her experience as a diplomat and serving as US Secretary of State under President Bill Clinton from 1997 to 2001 for leading her to recognize the multidimensional complexity of current events and global conflicts.

"[1] This sentiment was echoed by current Wellesley President Paula Johnson who cited the advancement of women's leadership as the "surest way to bring positive change to our fast-moving, complex world.

Around forty juniors and seniors are selected each year as "Albright Fellows" who participate in a three-week education and leadership program during the "Wintersession" scholastic term in January.

[1][12] The Albright Fellows program includes lectures, classes, and workshops with invited professors, researchers, and experts in a variety of disciplines.

[14] Numerous prominent women in American politics and diplomacy have participated in the Albright Fellows Wintersession program as Distinguished Visiting Professors or invited lecturers.

[17] Invited academics, scientists, and activists have included humanitarian leader Ophelia Dahl, Homi Kharas of the Brookings Institution, and astrophysicist Richard French who participated in NASA's Cassini Mission.

"[27] Public lectures organized by the Albright Institute address a variety of topics relating to current affairs and have generated media coverage.

[5][4] Madeleine Albright spoke about the moral and economic necessity of addressing the Syrian refugee crisis, which she described as a consequence of "failed diplomacy" and contrasted with the Cold War, stating "the world [back then] was divided between the 'red' and the 'red white and blue' and at this point, it is hard to keep track of who is who.”[28] The Albright Institute organizes the biannual Kenner Lecture series which invites prominent academics, politicians, and diplomats as speakers.

United States Under Secretary for Political Affairs Wendy R. Sherman spoke about her diplomatic career and a variety of current events during her Kenner Lecture in 2015.