In 2011, Dr. Ezekiel Emanuel is appointed as Penn’s first Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and develops the first strategic framework, which sought to prepare students for an increasingly globalized society, strengthen Penn as a global agenda-setter, and promote healthy, inspiring, and productive lives.

In 2012, Penn Global forms, establishing the Office of the Vice Provost for Global Initiatives and joining it with Penn Abroad, International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS), and the new Global Support Services under one umbrella organization.

In March 2015 the Penn Wharton China Center (PWCC) opens, representing the substantial commitment by Penn and Wharton to advance its long history of engagement with China. Following, the Penn China Research and Engagement Fund is launched and the University returns to Beijing in September to host the Silfen Forum. 

Also in 2015, Penn Global launches two marquee student programs: Penn Global Seminars, a global opportunity combining semester-long study with a short-term travel component, and Forerunner, a program designed to welcome new international students before they embark on their journey to Penn's campus. 

In September 2016, Perry World House opens as a center for scholarly inquiry, teaching, research, international exchange, policy engagement, and public outreach on pressing global issues. It has since emerged as the University's hub for global engagement on campus. 

In 2017, the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement opens its doors. It is founded on the principle that a democratic, open, secure, tolerant, and interconnected world benefits all Americans. Based in Washington, D.C., the Penn Biden Center engages more of our fellow citizens in shaping this world, while ensuring the gains of global engagement are widely shared.  

Also in 2017, Penn deepens its commitment to engage India through the launch of the inaugural Penn India Research Symposium, at which Penn leadership announced the creation of the Penn India Research and Engagement Fund to support projects that advance the study, teaching, and engagement of India. 

In 2021 and 2022, Penn Global significantly expands its global programming through the creation of new opportunities, such as the China Education Initiative, Holman Africa Initiative, Thakore Family Global Justice and Human Rights Visiting Fellowship and Program, and iCommunicate, and paves the way for the University's next global strategic framework.