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Introduction

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Seana Steffen (PhDSoc’02) is a trailblazer, working towards creating a better world through sustainable and community-driven business practices. Through her Colorado-based Restorative Leadership Institute (RLI), Steffen empowers businesses and purpose-driven organizations to make a sustainable impact. In this article, we explore Steffen's vision, achievements, and how she is driving positive change.

The Power of Business

In the 21st century, businesses have the potential to lead the charge towards a healthier and more sustainable earth. According to Steffen, business holds immense power as the most influential institution on the planet. She firmly believes in the transformative potential of businesses to bring about the necessary changes we need to see, not just in terms of profit but also in benefiting workers, communities, and the environment.

Building a Sustainable World

Seana Steffen is committed to creating a sustainable world that upholds human rights. One of her notable achievements was collaborating with Tostan, a Senegalese organization, which successfully convinced 6,500 villages across eight African countries to abandon the harmful practice of female genital cutting. This accomplishment is just the beginning of Steffen's journey to create a positive impact worldwide.

The Restorative Leadership Institute (RLI)

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In 2011, Steffen founded RLI as a benefit corporation, a new type of business entity that puts the interests of workers, communities, and the environment on par with financial interests. The concept of benefit corporations ensures that businesses serve social or environmental goals while pursuing profitability. RLI received the prestigious 2013 B Corp "Best for Community Impact" award, solidifying its commitment to making a difference.

Global Partnerships

RLI's client base includes government entities, major nonprofits, and Fortune 100 companies such as Hewlett Packard International, the Sustainability Consortium, and the Carter Center. Steffen's expertise has taken her across the world, consulting and collaborating on projects that have significant social and environmental impact.

Empowering Women

Steffen's work extends to empowering women globally. She recently worked with World Pulse, an Oregon-based nonprofit that uses digital media to connect and amplify the voices of women. Steffen played a crucial role in helping World Pulse prepare for exponential growth, aiming to reach 30 million participants worldwide and increase the influence of women in driving social change.

Steffen's Grounding at CU-Boulder

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Prior to founding RLI, Steffen's journey began at CU-Boulder, where she established INVST Community Studies, a program that nurtures students to become engaged citizens and leaders working for the betterment of humanity and the environment. Her experiences at CU-Boulder laid the foundation for her impactful work in the business world.

Achieving the Highest Benefit to All

Steffen envisions a future where decision-making in boardrooms and households alike prioritizes the highest benefit for all. Her mission with RLI is to inspire widespread leadership that considers the social, environmental, and financial impacts of every choice made. By urging businesses and individuals to think beyond profit, Steffen aims to create a sustainable and equitable world for generations to come.

In Conclusion

Seana Steffen's work through RLI exemplifies the potential of business to drive positive change. By championing sustainable and purpose-driven practices, Steffen is empowering corporations and individuals to make choices that benefit not only themselves but also the planet and society at large. Her dedication to creating a brighter future is inspiring and serves as a guiding light for businesses and organizations around the world.

Hotels also have a crucial role to play in promoting sustainable and socially responsible practices. By adopting eco-friendly initiatives and supporting local communities, hotels can contribute to a more sustainable hospitality industry. It's important for businesses across various sectors to follow the lead of pioneers like Seana Steffen and prioritize the highest benefit for all in their decision-making processes.