Our Why
Young people possess immense potential that deserves to be cultivated in ways that reflect their talents, aspirations, and growth. When our systems and structures recognize this, we create space for that potential to grow.
A video exploring the ideation of purpose at a 2022 Purpose Jam hosted by Hopelab. Video by Rio Holaday.
Why purpose?
Research shows that a sense of purpose shifts resilience, well-being, academic success and career fulfillment. When young people see a future worth striving for, they thrive, and so do their communities.
Listen to co-founder Dr. Anthony Burrow explain the science of purpose on the Hidden Brain podcast.
Our Team
TeRay Esquibel
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Michael Pih
CHIEF OF STAFF
Jenin Sabbah
DIRECTOR OF ECOSYSTEM DEVELOPMENT
Dr. Anthony Burrow
CO-FOUNDER
Dr. Jana Haritatos
CO-FOUNDER
Advisors
Our advisors bring diverse expertise and perspectives to guide Purpose Commons’ strategic direction. These thought leaders and practitioners share our commitment to youth thriving and provide invaluable wisdom as we work to transform systems and create new possibilities for young people.
Dr. Jana Haritatos
Chief Science & Innovation Officer, Hopelab
Dr. Anthony Burrow
Ferris Family Associate Professor of Life Course Studies & Director, Purpose Science and Innovation Exchange, Cornell University
Dr. Antwan Jefferson
Associate Dean & Associate Teaching Professor at the School of Education and Human Development, University of Colorado Denver
Becky Crowe
Consultant, Changemaker Giving
Christine DeLeon
Founder & Principal, CDL Consulting
Elijah Huff
Research & Action Initiatives Manager, Ednium: The Alumni Collective
Sokhnadiarra “Jarra” Ndiaye
CEO, Muneko
Kristen Grimm
Founder, Spitfire Strategies
Samira Pingali
Principal, Translational Science, Hopelab
Dr. Sean Talamas
Founder & Executive Coach, Leadership Cooperative
Partners
Purpose thrives through collaboration and partnership. We’re proud to partner with visionary organizations and institutions committed to nurturing youth potential and purpose. Purpose Commons is also generously supported by a coalition of funding partners.
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