Jeni Cross

I was born and raised in Fort Collins and feel very fortunate to be living and working in my home town. This didn't happen by accident. My father and mother taught me to value our place and our relationships. Valuing place over career guides so many of my decisions.

 

I hold a personal commitment to service, that my work contributes to the common good and increases community well-being for my family, my neighbors, and the skunks that live in my back yard. There is no greater joy than doing work that enhances the capacity of individuals, groups, and communities to grow and evolve. bell hooks taught me that knowledge and writing that is not accessible and used  by the people is valueless, thus I strive in all my work to make knowledge accessible and useful. I can only do this in relationship with partners who bring interesting questions and learners who commit to expanding their own skills and abilities.

 

The fundamental questions that inspire me are these: 

• How do we effectively engage individuals and groups in social change efforts?

• What are the key processes of transformational and systems change?

• How do innovative teams grow and evolve? How can we help them accelerate their success and growth?

• What are the processes though which people develop strong bonds to places and each other?

• How do social bonds help improve individual and community well-being?

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