Our Geographic Focus
As part of the planning process, the Board of Trustees asked how The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands could have the most impact. Our research team made on-site visits to the top retreat centers around the world and convened meetings of public officials, experts, and scholars. The Board established a program committee that provided recommendations. Using the gathered information, the Board of Trustees determined that Sunnylands provides unique opportunities because it is situated at the epicenter of regions vital to the United States in the 21st century: the Americas, the Pacific Rim, and, of course, California. These regions will be the geographic focus of Sunnylands retreats.
Our Standards
After extensive research and recommendations, the Board of Trustees approved the following standards for all Sunnylands retreats:
Size
Annenberg retreats are small. In view of our current capacity, and the unique qualities and advantages of an intimate, collegial setting, retreats generally will have no more than 18 to 22 participants. In exceptional circumstances The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands may also serve as a venue for larger groups during which participants stay in hotels and hold receptions and meetings at Sunnylands
Privacy
Except in cases as noted above, participants stay on the historic estate, which offers a high level of privacy and security.
Tranquility
A signature feature of retreats, as distinguished from other meetings and conferences, is the opportunity to spend time for reflection, nurture meaningful relationships, and develop ideas in a lovely setting and to spend some time in recreational and other leisurely activities.
Quality
Guests at Annenberg retreats will enjoy the gracious hospitality, recreational opportunities, and personal touches that were the hallmarks of a stay at Sunnylands when Ambassador and Mrs. Annenberg lived there.
Style
Annenberg retreats are known for their civility of discourse, respect for diverse opinions, and adherence to the Chatham House Rule. Participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed.
Host/Partners
The Annenberg Retreat at Sunnylands works with groups and individuals identified by the Declaration of Trust who have a reputation for excellence, are known to welcome and encourage diverse ideas and opposing perspectives, and are nonpartisan or bipartisan. These partners will have a proven record of achieving consensus and producing results on important topics.
Topics
Annenberg retreats will focus on a small number of signature areas specifically identified in the Declaration of Trust or otherwise closely aligned with the areas listed. Annenberg retreats will be held in order to achieve a meaningful outcome or make a distinctive contribution to an issue or challenge. Retreats at Sunnylands will take advantage of its location, history, and other special qualities to attract the kinds of leaders identified in the Declaration of Trust.