Purpose, Power, and Practice
The Inner Life and Outer Work of Making a Difference
October 26–28, 2026 | Harvard Kennedy School | Cambridge, MA
How do we live, lead, and make tangible progress on the causes we care about when the work is complex, demanding, and deeply personal?
This experience is designed for people at an inflection point — those seeking to align purpose with action, deepen their impact, and move forward with greater clarity, courage, and intention. Over 2.5 days, participants will step out of the noise of daily life and into a thoughtfully designed experience that blends practical frameworks, meaningful reflection, real-world case studies, and powerful connection.
You will leave with renewed perspective, a stronger sense of what you are called to do, deeper relationships with fellow participants, and a concrete plan for what comes next.
Applications are open May 1 – June 30, 2026 and reviewed on a rolling basis.
Schedule
| Time | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
| Theme | Purpose | Power | Practice |
| Morning | Arrivals and optional time to explore Harvard and Cambridge | Sessions on relationships, networks, courage, and influence | Practical sessions on tackling big problems and mobilizing support for your cause. |
| Afternoon | 4:00 PM ET Opening session with introductions and the work you are called to do | Tour through Lexington and Concord led by Major General (Ret.) Bill Rapp, connecting lessons from the Boston Campaign to your own leadership challenges | Build your personal 90-day action plan and closing reflections. Program concludes at 3:00 PM ET. |
| Evening | Private gallery walk and opening dinner at Harvard Art Museums with lightly facilitated conversation | Workshop with Bob Goff over dinner focused on identifying your unique strengths and superpower | Departures |
Harvard Faculty and Guest Speakers
Julie Battilana, Professor, Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School; Founder and Faculty Chair, Social Innovation + Change Initiative (SICI); Author, Power, for All: How It Really Works and Why It’s Everyone’s Business
Brittany Butler, Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy, Harvard Kennedy School; Founding Executive Director, Social Innovation + Change Initiative (SICI)
Bob Goff, New York Times Bestselling Author of Love Does and Everybody Always; Founder, Restore International and The Oaks
Bill Rapp, Retired U.S. Army Major General; Author, Accomplishing the Impossible: Leadership That Launched Revolutionary Change; Former Commandant, U.S. Army War College; Former Commandant of Cadets, U.S. Military Academy at West Point
Pricing
Tuition: $6,350. Includes the full 2.5-day program and select meals. Travel and lodging are not included.
Scholarships: A limited number of scholarships are available. We encourage anyone doing meaningful work to apply regardless of financial means. Scholarship applicants will be prioritized based on:
- Financial need
- Current involvement in addressing a pressing social or environmental challenge
- A clear and compelling case for how this program will accelerate their impact
Before You Apply
- Full payment is due by August 30th
- Tuition is non-refundable
- All participants must be at least 18 years of age, proficient in English, and able to complete the full program
Accessibility
We are committed to making this program accessible. Accommodations are available for participants with disabilities — there is no need to disclose anything during the application process. Once accepted, we will be in touch and happy to work with you.