Human Flourishing Academy
Equipping a new generation of policy leaders who champion reforms to the social safety net that reduce reliance on government interventions by empowering people to build and maintain fulfilling lives of dignity, health, and economic independence
About the Academy
Human Flourishing Academy recruits, trains, and deploys policy-interested professionals into positions of influence in the human services arenas, equipping them to empower individuals and families and fight for the future of the next generation, our economy, and the American dream.
“We need to equip reform-minded HHS leaders with new ways to reduce the imposition of big government programs that, instead of being a safety net, too often become a poverty and hopelessness trap. In collaboration with faith and community partners, it is possible to rebuild our communities one child, one adult, one family at a time and help them move from crisis, to stability, and ultimately to flourishing.”
Kristi Putnam
HFA Dean and Fmr. Secretary of the Arkansas
Department of Human Services
“The Human Flourishing Academy is building the next generation of leaders who can rethink human services with both courage and competence. Reform depends on people who not only challenge the status quo but also know how to responsibly harness AI and modern technology to deliver better outcomes. This Academy is creating the bench we need to drive real, lasting change.”
Adam Meier
Former Secretary, Kentucky Cabinet for Health & Family Services
Former Secretary, Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services
Director of Health Policy, The Cicero Institute
“This program provided an exceptional opportunity to deepen my understanding of social mobility and the factors that help individuals and families flourish. Through thoughtful discussion, rigorous research, and engagement with experts and fellow participants, I gained valuable insights into the policies, institutions, and cultural forces that expand opportunity and strengthen communities. This program challenged me to think more deeply about what drives upward mobility and equipped me with ideas and relationships that will continue to inform my work for years to come.”
Hannah Bruck
Family Policy Advocate, Texas Public Policy Foundation
“Some of the most valuable aspects of the Human Flourishing Academy were the opportunities to explore a wide range of policy issues through a human flourishing lens. Rather than viewing topics such as mental health, healthcare, workforce participation, child welfare, and community well-being as separate conversations, the fellowship highlighted how interconnected these issues are and how each can influence a person’s ability to thrive.”
Dr. Shayla Polk
Executive Director, Office of Drug Policy & the Office of Strategic Community Initiatives – Office of Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry
“The Human Flourishing Academy brings together outstanding professionals who are genuinely willing to share their knowledge, experience, and time. The curriculum is enlightening and the network is made up of people committed to meaningful service. I am a better leader for having participated.”
Katie DeMuth
Chief of Staff, Oklahoma Department of Human Services
“Human Flourishing Academy has given me a rare kind of space — one where bold ideas, rigorous learning, and extraordinary minds come together to innovate radical solutions to complex problems. I am grateful for the relationships built and the experts who have expanded my thinking.”
Ashley Webb
Deputy Director, Office of Violence Prevention, Louisville Metro Government
HFA Fellowship
ENROLLING NOW!
Apply today to take part in HFA’s signature training program, a national fellowship built for working professionals. Join a network of people who are at the forefront of applying the human flourishing framework within the human services arena.
In the fellowship, you will develop “changemaker skills” and gain confidence as you work to positively impact public policy. You’ll connect to career opportunities as you build a deep, foundational understanding of human services issues and explore reform-minded solutions to contemporary challenges.
For the most up-to-date information about upcoming cohorts and deadlines, please visit the application page. Generous scholarships are available for eligible participants.
Our Values
Invested in People
We enjoy helping people prepare for and find rewarding policy careers, where they can make a difference in the lives of people and their families.
Partnership-Focused
We are movement-minded, supporting human services reformers (inside and outside of government) by adding talented changemakers to the team.
Built for Changemakers
Our instruction merges theory, history, and practice; we educate changemakers who can navigate the realities of American politics/government and get things done.
Challenging the Status Quo
Our fellows are given the knowledge and skills necessary to think creatively, challenge the status quo, and continually expect better outcomes.
Featured Instructors
Brendan W. Case
Associate Director for Research
Harvard Human Flourishing Program
Elinore McCance-Katz
Cicero Institute Senior Fellow and Fmr. Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Kelly Garcia
Former Director of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services