OUR MISSION
TCI’s mission is to generate, synthesize, and translate the best available science on social connection into policies, programs, and practices that measurably improve individual and community well-being. Social connection is the essential infrastructure of a healthy society.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where social connection is recognized as essential infrastructure. Every sector of society should have access to the evidence-based tools and frameworks needed to foster human flourishing.
FOCUS AREAS
Advance Science
Conduct original research, rigorous evaluation, and synthesis studies that fill knowledge gaps and respond to emerging trends such as technology, remote work, demographic shifts, and climate impacts.
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Catalyze Action
Translate evidence into practical guidance, playbooks, pilots, and technical assistance that enable organizations to implement proven solutions quickly and safely.
Accelerate Progress
Apply the SOCIAL Framework to map opportunities across sectors and the lifecourse, shortening the path from discovery to impact and promoting coordinated investments.
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Educate and Inform
Equip policymakers, practitioners, employers, and communities with clear, actionable information and support evidence-based awareness campaigns that drive behavior change.
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CURRENT PROJECTS
Report released by
The Connection Institute partners with RAND and the Barnes Family Foundation to lead the Social Connection in America Survey, a first-of-its-kind, nationally representative study conducted annually over 25 years.
Read MoreResearch Funding Opportunity - notifications coming soon!
The Connection Institute is partnering with NIVEA Connect to award seed grants to new researchers to plug gaps in the research base on social connection. Check back here for notifications in the coming weeks.
OUR IMPACT
Adopted SOCIAL Framework. Developed Scientific Advisory Council and Scientific Leadership Council
Adopted SOCIAL Framework. Developed International Scientific Board.
Adopted the SOCIAL Framework and EAR Framework.
Supported the development of the NIVEA Connect program.
PARTNERS
OUR TEAM
TCI is led by internationally recognized social connection scientist Julianne Holt-Lunstad, PhD, whose pioneering research established social connection as a protective factor for mortality and informed national and global strategies. Her decades of scholarship, policy engagement, and cross-sector collaboration uniquely position the institute to bridge science and practice. Supported by a multidisciplinary team and an expansive network of partners, TCI is poised to deliver transformative impact at scale.
SCIENTIFIC LEADERS
OPERATIONAL TEAM
Co-Founder, Chief of Operations and External Affairs
Federal and global policy expert on social health and wellbeing, public health healthcare financing, and public-private sector solutions. Ecosystem developer.
Senior Scientific Director
Federal and state programs, surveillance, and operations.
Senior Advisor
public-private partnerships, ecoysytem development, and fundraising.
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Operations Manager
Operations and administration manager with a background in nonprofit management and Monitoring and Evaluation.