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.
Advance Science
Build the evidence and make it usable.
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We partner with leading researchers and institutions to generate rigorous science on social connection. Working across disciplines, we integrate insights and translate them into forms that inform real-world decisions.
FOCUS AREAS
Independently or in coordination with our strategic partners, we:
Catalyze the Field
Align people, funding, and ideas to accelerate progress.
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We convene global experts and funders to tackle the most pressing questions—unlocking collaboration and advancing coordinated solutions.
CURRENT PROJECTS
The Connection Institute (TCI) partners with RAND to lead the Social Connection in America™ Survey —a first-of-its-kind, nationally representative study conducted annually over 25 years.
Tracking trends, drivers, and outcomes over time—creating one of the most comprehensive datasets in the field.
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.
FOCUS AREAS
PARTNERS
OUR IMPACT
Supported the development of the NIVEA Connect program.
Our leadership advised the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to adopt the SOCIAL Framework and EAR Framework.
Our leadership ensured the adoption of the SOCIAL Framework and developed the International Scientific Board.
PARTNERS
UNDER DEVELOPMENT:
Optimize Impact
Translate science into approaches that organizations can depend on to be effective and efficient.
We equip leaders and institutions with clear, practical guidance—so evidence drives real-world decisions and impact.
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.