Higher education as an engine for social innovation

The Exchange is Ashoka U’s global gathering for social impact educators. This year, in light of the COVID-19 virus, we’ll be hosting the Exchange completely online, from April 16-17, 2020.

Despite not being able to convene in person, we believe that we can still deliver on the high quality content, community, and inspiration that the Exchange is best known for. We are grateful to our co-host, the University of St. Thomas, as well as our other partners, speakers, and community members for going on this journey with us.

Now more than ever, the Exchange is more than just a conference. It’s a home for creative problem solvers, learners, listeners, and visionaries.  The values that guide our community are:

• Authenticity. Our actions and motivations remain true to our personal and collective values.
• Belonging. We are a home for changemakers and a support network of visionary thinkers.
• Optimism. Where others see problems, we see the spark of a new idea.
• Inclusion. We seek out diverse voices and take active strides to ensure they feel empowered in our community and their perspectives are respected.
• Generosity. We are here for each other, eager to listen and share.
• Courage. We’re not afraid of unorthodox ideas because they’re inherent to progress.
• Respect. We recognize the right of every attendee to feel safe, heard, and valued at the Exchange. We are all part of this community together and all voices matter.