Building Stronger and Kinder Communities
For more than a decade, Pollyanna has brought together educators, students, leaders, and communities through learning, dialogue, and shared experiences that strengthen connection and inspire growth.
Guided by a commitment to stronger and kinder communities, we work alongside people and organizations seeking to create environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Because stronger communities don't happen by accident.
A Vision for Stronger and Kinder Communities
Pollyanna was founded in 2015 with a vision both simple and ambitious: to help schools become stronger and more inclusive communities where every person feels seen, valued, and connected.
Its roots began with the creation of the Dalton Conference, an initiative that brought entire school communities together for meaningful conversations about identity, belonging, and community. The response revealed a broader need for opportunities to learn, reflect, connect, and grow.
Over the past decade, Pollyanna has expanded its work to support schools, organizations, and communities across the country through conferences, workshops, student leadership initiatives, and strategic partnerships.
Today, Pollyanna partners with communities through assessment, advisory support, and education, while continuing to convene educators, students, leaders, and changemakers through the Pollyanna Circle and National Conference.
While the work has evolved, the mission remains the same: creating cultures of belonging where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Pollyanna since its early days following the Dalton Conference in New York. Since then, its programming has evolved to focus on school leadership and belonging. Now, as a school leader in independent schools on the West Coast, Pollyanna is one of my go-to resources. Its National Conference offers a rare opportunity for school PODs to connect across regions.”
Christopher S. Dennis, PhD, Associate Head of School, Campbell Hall, CA
Celebrating 10 Years of Pollyanna
For a decade, Pollyanna has worked alongside schools and communities across the country to Build Stronger and Kinder Communities. Our 10th Anniversary Impact Brochure tells the story of that journey through the milestones, partnerships, programs, and people who have shaped Pollyanna along the way.
Inside, you'll find stories that bring our work to life, reflections from members of our community, and highlights from a decade of learning, connection, and impact. Together, they capture not only how Pollyanna has grown but also the many people and communities who have made that growth possible.
Click on the image to explore our 10th Anniversary Impact Brochure and the stories behind our first ten years.

Belonging Is Fundamental
People thrive when they feel seen, valued, respected, and connected.
Every Person Has Value
Every individual brings unique experiences, perspectives, and strengths that contribute to a stronger community.
Strong Communities Are Built Through Connection
Meaningful relationships create the foundation for trust, collaboration, and growth.
Learning Leads to Growth
Lasting change happens through reflection, learning, dialogue, and action.
Diversity Strengthens Communities
Communities are stronger when they embrace and learn from a wide range of perspectives and experiences.
Everyone Deserves the Opportunity to Thrive
We believe every person should have the opportunity to participate, contribute, and flourish.
Pollyanna Team
Our work is carried forward by a deeply committed team of educators, facilitators, and leaders who believe in the power of community and the responsibility we all share in shaping it.
Casper CaldarolaView Bio
Dayna CampbellView Bio
Julie GallesView Bio
Claire Hannan-RadomisliView Bio
Jason Craige HarrisView Bio
Shernice LazareView Bio
Derek LipscombView Bio
Katie RockerView Bio
Anthony WitteView Bio
Sarah WoodsView BioBoard of Trustees
Comprised of leaders from a range of professional backgrounds, our Board provides thoughtful governance, strategic guidance, and steadfast stewardship, helping Pollyanna grow with integrity, purpose, and long-term vision.
Rena AndohView Bio
Ava AzoulayView Bio
Mia BurtonView Bio
Casper CaldarolaView Bio
James Calleroz WhiteView Bio
Emerson CasperView Bio
Veneka ChagView Bio
Christina ClementeView Bio
Marsha ElliottView Bio
Emily GottliebView Bio
Alessandra GouldnerView Bio
Jason Craige HarrisView Bio
Destynée JohnsonView Bio
Addeson LehvView Bio
Saya McKennaView Bio
Victor PengView Bio
Erica PettisView Bio
Tal RecanatiView Bio
Chai ReddyView Bio
Pankti SevakView BioFinancials
We are committed to accountability and transparency. Our most recent IRS Form 990 filings are available below.

Join us in creating change.
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