Berta Cáceres was a force of nature, a fearless defender of indigenous lands and a tireless champion of environmental justice. Her brutal assassination on March 2, 2016, at the age of 44, sent shockwaves around the world, but her legacy as a global citizen and thought leader lives on.
New York, N.Y. Berta Cáceres was a force of nature, a fearless defender of indigenous lands and a tireless champion of environmental justice. Her brutal assassination on March 2, 2016, at the age of 44, sent shockwaves around the world, but her legacy as a global citizen and thought leader lives on.
Photo: Berta Cáceres, human rights defender and General Coordinator of the Civic Council of Popular and Indigenous Organizations of Honduras (COPINH) / Credit: Justice for Berta.
Her courageous stance against the Agua Zarca dam earned her the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize in 2015, solidifying her status as a thought leader in the fight against corporate exploitation and environmental degradation.
As a member of the Lenca indigenous community in Honduras, Berta was deeply connected to the land and its sacred rivers.
Her unwavering opposition to the Agua Zarca hydroelectric dam project, which threatened to displace her people and desecrate their ancestral territories, made her a target for powerful corporate interests and corrupt officials.
Despite constant threats and intimidation, she remained resolute, leading peaceful protests and garnering international support for her cause. Berta’s activism transcended borders, inspiring a global movement to protect the rights of indigenous communities and safeguard the environment.
What truly set Berta apart was her unwavering commitment to nonviolence and her deep spiritual connection to the land.
She believed that the struggle for environmental justice was inextricably linked to the struggle for human rights and dignity. Her words resonated with people from all walks of life, reminding us of our collective responsibility to protect the planet for future generations.
In the wake of her assassination, Berta’s legacy has only grown stronger.
Her family and the Council of Indigenous Peoples of Honduras (COPINH) continue to carry the torch, demanding justice and accountability for her murder while advocating for the rights of indigenous communities worldwide. Her name has become a rallying cry for environmental defenders across the globe, a symbol of resistance against corporate greed and state-sanctioned violence.
As global citizens, we stand in solidarity with Berta’s vision of a world where indigenous rights are respected, where the voices of marginalized communities are amplified, and where our planet’s precious resources are protected for generations to come.
Her life and her ultimate sacrifice serve as a powerful reminder that the struggle for environmental justice is a struggle for human rights, and that we must all be willing to stand up and fight for what is right, no matter the cost.
Jim Luce attended the International Division of Waseda University. He taught with the Japanese Department of Education in the north of Honshu. His first job was with a Japanese bank on Wall Street.
With my mom at Rockefeller Plaza, Easter, 1992. So many gay men then were dying of AIDS and we wore red ribbons in their honor.
On my mom’s balcony with my second partner following my arrest on Fifth Avenue during a gay rights demonstration. ACT UP and ‘red ribbons are not enough’ were my mantras.I typeset the program for the first Queens Gays & Lesbians United (QGLU) dinner in Jackson Heights in the early 1990’s and my mom joined me at our table.
Photo: Presenting our Foundation’s Global Citizenship award to H.E. Katalin Bogyay of Hungary. Credit: Derek Balarezo/Stewardship Report.
Over 700 people from all walks of life assembled in a large conference room in the United Nations headquarters last weekend to celebrate the International Day of Happiness.
New York, N.Y. Over 700 people from all walks of life assembled in a large conference room in the United Nations headquarters last weekend to celebrate the International Day of Happiness. A U.N. resolution officially proclaimed March 20 as the day to annually recognize the importance of happiness in the lives of people worldwide. Since 2013, events have been organized around the world.
U.N. Ambassador Toriello of São Tomé and Príncipe at the microphone surrounded by U.N. ambassadors from the missions of Vietnam, Benin, Hungary, Bhutan, Palau and Kazakhstan. Photo: Mangala Weerasekera/Stewardship Report.
A marathon full-day event at the U.N. was organized by Ambassador Angelo Toriello of the Permanent Mission to the U.N. of São Tomé and Príncipe and Special Envoy of the President of the country, Manuel Pinto da Costa.
The U.N. Missions of the Republic of Palau and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam were co-sponsors. Ambassadors from many other countries were present.
The focus was on honoring healthy people and a healthy planet as fundamental to happiness, goals intertwined with the U.N.’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the U.N. General Assembly last September.
Audience enjoying International Happiness Day at the United Nations. Photo: U.N. Webcast.
Consequently, the theme was “Happiness and Well-being in the U.N. 2030 Agenda: Achieving a New Vision of Sustainable Development for the People and the Planet.”
The event featured inspiring presentations intermixed with cultural performances that were so compelling that many people who had arrived at 8am stayed for twelve hours, until the final performance.
“At this time of grave injustices, devastating wars, mass displacement, grinding poverty and other man-made causes of suffering, the International Day of Happiness is a global chance to assert that peace, well-being and joy deserve primacy,” U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in his official message on International Day of Happiness.
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon conveys message to Shweta Inderyas for the event. Photo: Office of the Secretary General.
The Secretary-General conveyed his personal wishes to everyone to enjoy the event when meeting with Shweta Emmanuel Inderyas, Executive Assistant and spokesperson in Ambassador Toriello’s office in India that represents President Manuel Pinto da Costa in the Asia region.
The video of mobile game characters “Angry Birds” was played, given that the Secretary-General appointed Red as an honorary ambassador to raise awareness about addressing climate change for a happier future.
The event was presented byHumanicy – Ambassador Toriello’s initiative to bring the human side into diplomacy – as a tribute to the Kingdom of Bhutan, a country whose King started the focus on happiness in 1972. Bhutan has proposed a new paradigm of development to include Gross National Happiness as opposed to just Gross National Product.
Ambassador Toriello welcomed the assemblage and often joined in the conversation and merriment. His spontaneous singing ofThat’s Amore drew much applause.
All ages enjoyed the event. Photo: Derek Balarezo/Stewardship Report.
UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador to Nepal Ani Choying Drolma, a Buddhist nun who traveled from Nepal for the event, launched the ceremony with sacred chants.
In his welcome message, the President of the U.N. General Assembly, H.E. Mogens Lykketoft, said that as a native of Denmark, he was particularly happy that his country had previously been rated by the Happy Planet Index as the happiest nation in the world, noting that everyone in his country has been given access to education, health and protection.
He noted that “by the SDGs, we have set ourselves a deadline to make the right of a good life a reality for everyone.”
The first panel featured ambassadors from countries that have played a major role in the promotion of happiness and well being at the United Nations.
Ambassador Angelo Toriello singing “That’s Amore” with international pianist Russell Daisey accompanying on keyboards and Bolivian percussionist Hilario Soto. Photo: Sekou Diarra.
H.E. Ambassador Kunzang C. Namgyel, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Bhutan to the U.N., expressed appreciation for the Humanicy tribute to her Kingdom, and noted that a growing number of countries and civil society organizations are starting to question the way we measure happiness and recognizing happiness as fundamental to human existence.
Ambassador Otto addressed the crowd with touching remarks about how Palauans view life from the heart and emphasized the importance of the spiritual realm in development. His wife Judy, a public health expert who enjoyed the event all day, was a partner in its organization.
H.E. Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, Permanent Representative of the Mission of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the U.N., described her country’s national motto of independence, freedom, and happiness. “The 2030 agenda is our guideline to make the world a happier place where no one is left behind,” she said.
The theme of “Happy People Happy Planet” was highlighted by an original anthem with that refrain brilliantly composed for the occasion by international musician/composer Russell Daisey.
As Russell and his back-up choir sang, more serious messages of the day turned to spontaneous delight when soft stuffed globes mapping the world – from eight inches to two feet wide – representing the planet, were tossed throughout the auditorium and hugged by ambassadors and audience alike.
It was a spectacle I had never witnessed in my almost two decades at the United Nations. The globes were donated by Hugg-A-Planet founder Robert Forenza.
Ambassadors Bogyay of Hungary, Namgyel of Bhutan and Nga of Vietnam with Amb. Abdrakhmanov of Kazakhstan standing behind – all enjoying performances. Photo: Sekou Diarra.
The event was also an acknowledgement of H.E. Ambassador Dr. Caleb Otto, Permanent Representative of the Republic of Palau to the United Nations, who was responsible for the inclusion of mental health and well-being in the new U.N. global agenda.
In her keynote address on “Wellbeing in the U.N. 2030 Global Agenda,” event producer and noted international psychologist Dr. Judy Kuriansky described this campaign and her partnership with Ambassador Otto in this historic effort, demonstrated in the video shown about “Youth and Mental Health: Youth and Ambassadors Speak Out.”
Dr. Judy, who had been invited to the 2012 U.N. high-level meeting organized by Bhutan about a new paradigm of development, was a keynote speaker at the first U.N. panel on the International Day of Happiness in 2013.
Ambassador Caleb Otto of the Mission of Palau to the U.N. Photo: Sekou Diarra.
“What a wonderful day when happiness, mental health and well-being were united,” said Ambassador Otto, echoing the many enthusiastic comments about the day.
Noted humanitarian Ms. Man Xian Li, Founder of the American Oriental Arts Foundation, took the stage to offer gracious appreciation of the bridge between cultural arts and the celebration of happiness in joyful as well as serious ways.
In another of the many emotionally touching moments to me, that I could feel moved the audience to be connected and happy, Ambassador Toriello invited the audience to hold hands in a show of solidarity and caring.
Event producer and speaker Dr. Judy Kuriansky. Photo: Derek Balarezo/Stewardship Report.
Celebrity actor “007” Daniel Craig was on hand to join the celebration. Daniel was named by the Secretary-General as U.N. Global Advocate for the Elimination of Mines and Explosive Hazards. Film star Craig graciously greeted the crowd and U.N. dignitaries.
The Deputy Permanent Ambassador of the Mission of India to the U.N., H.E. Ambassador Tanmaya Lal, reminded everyone that we all have a responsibility to work together to make this planet sustainable and to achieve harmony.
Former Director of the Central Bureau of Investigation of India, and Director General of the National Human Rights Commission, H.E. D.R. Kaarthikeyan, underscored how the progress of a nation should be judged by happiness and not just a growing economy. The noted law enforcement officer organized the First World Parliament on Spirituality.
The two exceptional MCs wove the innumerable pieces of the program together with not only professionalism and aplomb but also good humor.
Alizé Utteryn, born in French Guyana, is a former model and currently publishe of AlizéLaVie magazine.
Shannon LaNier, television reporter for Arise TV, is also author of the book Jefferson’s Children: The Story of One American Family about uncovering his heritage as a ninth generation descendant of Thomas Jefferson and slave Sally Hemings.
Culture was interspersed throughout. Virtuoso of the ancient Chinese instrument erhu, Feifei Yang and pipa virtuoso Jiaju Shen played a medley of tunes, including Pharrell Williams’ Happy.
In a keynote Address, Dr. Dan Haybron, professor of philosophy at St. Louis University, described his visit to Bhutan to consult about the Gross National Happiness survey.
It was most surprising to me that Bhutanese rated a high number of people they could count on.
I was also impressed that Haybron was awarded a $5.1 million grant from the Templeton Foundation for a three-year project to encourage young researchers on the topic of “Happiness and Well-Being: Integrating Research Across the Disciplines.”
Other U.N. ambassadors spoke on what happiness means to them and their nations. H.E. Jean-Francis Zinsou of the Mission of the Republic of Benin to the U.N. noted in his typical eloquence that happiness is about being free of want, fears, and threats of any kind.
Music Fusion performing on ancient Chinese instruments. Photo: Derek Balarezo/Stewardship Report.
In his role as the Global Coordinator of the Group of Least Developed Countries during the global agenda negotiations, Ambassador Zinsou had been exceptionally supportive of the importance of well-being.
H.E. Barlybay Sadykov, Deputy Permanent Representative of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the U.N., emphasized how happiness is fundamental to the achievement of world peace, to which his country is dedicated.
H.E. Ambassador Katalin A. Bogyay, Permanent Representative of the Mission of Hungary to the U.N., made me – and everyone – smile when she noted that happiness begins with a smile.
Her experience as a journalist and television reporter was evident in her presentation engaging the audience.
After her address, it was my honor to present Ambassador Bogyay with the J. Luce Foundation Global Citizenship Award.
Ambassador Bogyay told me after the event:
Photo: Ashwani Agrawal/Stewardship Report.
“I was delighted to have had the chance to speak at this wonderful event.
It was great to see that in spite of the horrendous things the world is experiencing today, members of the international community and civil society took time to celebrate the International Day of Happiness and the commitment towards universal well-being that is embodied in the 2030 SDG Agenda.”
“Moreover, I felt honored to receive the 2016 Global Citizenship Award of the Luce Foundation on this joyous occasion. I am a firm believer that happiness is something we create and not wait for. Happiness is something we aim and work for; happiness is a constant curiosity, challenge and action.
“I am a diplomat who believes that multilateral and cultural diplomacy can help indeed in bridging people, and if we do it well, it can give us a chance at least to try not to misunderstand but understand each other.
Having once been imprisoned in his native country, former Ambassador of Iraq to the U.N. Hamid al-Bayati knows the value of well-being. A professor and author of books like “From Dictatorship to Democracy: An Insider’s Account of the Iraqi Opposition to Saddam,” he had spoken on the panel at the first International Day of Happiness here at the U.N. in 2013.
Teacher Betsy Sawyer was surrounded by her dedicated students who described their dream project The Big Book: Pages for Peacewith great pride. The massive book measuring twelve feet tall by ten feet wide, was displayed in the lobby, marking its first stop in a planned 2016 World Tour. I was in awe.
The Big Book, begun in 2004, weighs more than a ton (!) with contributions from more than 3,500 notables, including 9/11 First Responders, Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Carter, and the Dalai Lama. The students obviously touched everyone’s heart when talking about how anyone can achieve their dream as they did, and that their “dream goes on.”
Lions in the House: the author with Hector Liang, Dr. Judy Kuriansky, Guillermo Perez, and Kevin Camacho. Photo: Mangala Weerasekera
It was a big surprise to all when a video was played of famed Italian comic actor Totò — considered an heir of the Commedia dell’Arte tradition — and then onstage he walked! But he had died in 1967. Aha!
Under the mask, was Amerigo Festa, president of the Italian organization United Beings, in full regalia dressed as Totò, the stage name of Prince Antonio Griffo Focas Flavio Angelo Ducas Comneno Porfirogenito Gagliardi De Curtis di Bisanzio. Festa is promoting a movement to have a Minister of Peace in all nations.
In a passionate narrative, Greek native Georgia Nomikos of the Orpheus Luxury Collection, spoke about the many contributions of her people to the welcome and well-being of refugees to the Greek islands.
As president of the J. Luce Foundation and Orphans International Worldwide (OIW), I presented the next keynote address, moderating a panel of Lions Clubs Internationalmembers,”Happiness Through Service.”
It was a new experience for me to speak of my personal experience in giving up my savings from my family and made on Wall Street — to disavow money and devote my energy to helping orphans worldwide, including adopting my cherished sonMathew James Tendean Luce from Indonesia.
The audience was very happy. Photo: Derek Balarezo/Stewardship Report.
Lions District 20-R2 Governor Guillermo A. Perez spoke about the 1.4 million Lions in 200 countries around the world actively engaged in service, often for the sight-impaired.
Student Hector Liang, president of the New York Tribeca Campus Lions Club at Borough of Manhattan Community College, also spoke with great passion on his club’s activities to serve humanity. Kevin Camacho, District Zone Chair and past president of the Tribeca Club, also spoke on finding happiness through helping others.
Our own club, the New York Global Leaders Lions Club (NYGLLC), was founded specifically to engage in service. The Lions had just celebrated Lions Day at the U.N., which I attended and wrote about (here).
True to the theme of “Humanicy,” the event included many speakers with expertise in human development. Holistic coach and energy medicine expert Sonia Emmanuel described how the experience of happiness and love releases hormones that vibrate at the highest frequency.
Lions District Governor and the MCs having fun.Pho to: Mangala Weerasekera/Stewardship Report.
Many speeches from Italian experts addressed the science and practice of positivity, wellbeing and happiness. Neurologist Dr. José Foglia, M.D., Ph.D., presented a new paradigm of neuroscience taking kindness into account, entitled “Homolux.”
Other speakers included Stefano Bizzotto representing the Italian group known as Conacreis, who spoke about holistic energy treatments; spiritual healer Crótalo Sésamo (born Alessandro Zattoni) who teaches astral traveling and out-of-body experiences, representing the ecovillage and spiritual community of Federazione Damanhur; representatives of United Beings in Italy, holistic therapist Patrizia Coppola with ReiKi master and entrepreneur in ecological wellness Roberto Cossa; and filmmaker Nicolas Grasso.
For someone so young, Francesca Festa truly inspired me by telling her heartfelt story about how she came to devote her life to founding a movement that promotes saving exotic wildlife.
Many people wonder whether happiness can be measured, so it was truly educational to hear Michelle Breslauer of the Institute for Economics and Peace talk about measuring peacefulness through the Global Peace Index.
Classical Indian dance teacher Nalini Rau and her student. Photo: Sekou Diarra.
Meditation is key to peacefulness. The Field Resonance Medit-Action was a 21-Minute experience in which all the participants in the Hall, “in Resonance and in Communion of Intent,” joined with individuals and groups around the world to generate a “Field of Anticipated Joy and Gratitude” that was said to “reach, envelope, and fill all Humanity.”
Treating us to more sheer entertainment and brilliant performance, raising all of us to our feet dancing and waving arms, composer/pianist Russell Daisey and his band and choir played a medley of music on the theme of happiness.
The popular songs included “Here Comes the Sun,” “Happy Days Are Here Again,” “Don’t Worry, Be Happy,” “What a Wonderful World,” and “Oh, Happy Day.”
Daisey is also a representative of the ECOSOC-accredited NGO, the International Association of Applied Psychology, that also partnered in the event production.
As if I wasn’t already enthralled and awed, more cultural art was in store with a dance performance by Nalini Rau, founder of the Natya Anubhava Academy of Classical Dance, with one of her star high-school students, Meena.
Performers and speakers on stage for finale thank you. Photo: Joel Zinsou.
I can’t remember having ever spent twelve hours with over 700 people of such goodwill assembled to uplift humanity – which is exactly what we did at the United Nations headquarters last week celebrating the International Day of Happiness.
The intergenerational duo offered a classical Indian dance performance interpreting the “essence of being.”]
Naturopath Giuseppa Camerino sang a devotional song, “Nirvanasatkam,” which was a perfect prelude into a concert by UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador to Nepal Ani Choying Drolma and her band in a series of Buddhist chants set to contemporary music played on classical instruments.
The performance closed the International Day of Happiness at the United Nations on a perfect uplifting note after a most exciting, educational and inspirational day, which I thought brought a special spirit to the United Nations.
Global Citizens and thought leaders Ambassador Angelo Toriello, Ambassador Dr. Caleb Otto, and Dr. Judy Kuriansky — and so many more — are to be commended for making the world a better place. I intend to be front row center next year – and bring all of my friends!
New York, N.Y.On July 6th 2016, His Holiness the Dalai Lama [Luce Index™ rank: 98] turns 81 years old… We all recall very beautiful and joyous occasion of 80 years birthday last year!!
When anyone lives over 80 years, for such a long and meaningful life of peace and compassion for all of us on this planet, We should celebrate his life annually, and wish his long life in good health forever!
We can together send our deep collective gratitude for this remarkable human being who has tirelessly worked for peace, and taught us how to develop compassion for all sentient beings. We are so lucky to live on this planet at this time with His Holiness. If you feel any emotion of gratitude for H.H., this will be the time to join us!
The birthday dinner party will be held at the elegant Ballroom of JW Marriott, Essex House on Central Park South, New York City, on the evening of July 6th
Tibetans and friends of Tibet would again gather to celebrate annual gathering on his Birthday, July 6, 2016.
The birthday dinner party will be held at the elegant Ballroom of JW Marriott, Essex House at 160 Central Park South, New York City, July 6th from 6.30 pm to 9.30pm. Please mark your calendar today!
There will be a prayer by Tibetan monks wishing His Holiness’s Long, healthy life. Flag Peace Ceremony of all people of all countries, films and Tibetan Cultural performances and more! His Holiness the Dalai Lama will not be in attendance, but He will be with us in spirit. Let’s have a joyous celebration and send our great Ki of gratitude together to H.H. the Dalai Lama 14th.
This year we are happy to announce collaborations of three organizations: The Tibet Fund, Tibet House US, and Gaia Holistic Inc.
“Human kindness has never weakened the stamina or softened the fiber of a free people. A nation does not have to be cruel in order to be tough. The vigorous expression of our American community spirit is truly important. The ancient injunction to love thy neighbor as thyself is still the force that animates our faith—a faith that we are determined shall live and conquer in a world poisoned by hatred and ravaged by war.” – Franklin D. Roosevelt, October 13, 1940
Her performances were a gift to all who had the privilege of hearing them, offering a profound connection to her life’s work and the universal truths she so eloquently expressed. We are eternally grateful for the opportunity to have witnessed her brilliance and to carry forward the lessons she imparted.
New York, N.Y. As we reflect on the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Maya Angelou, we are reminded of the profound impact she has had on us and countless others around the world. Hearing her perform in public once was been an incredible experience, one that has left an indelible mark on my heart and mind. Maya Angelou’s contributions as a poet, author, and civil rights activist have solidified her place as a thought leader and global citizen whose influence transcends time and space.
Maya Angelou by NYC-based pop artist Tatiana.
Maya Angelou’s voice was more than just the sound of her words; it was a vessel of truth, wisdom, and resilience.
Her powerful performances bring her poetry and prose to life, captivating audiences with their emotional depth and unflinching honesty. We remember vividly the first time we heard her recite her iconic poem “Still I Rise.” The strength and defiance in her voice resonated deeply, empowering us to rise above our own struggles and challenges.
Angelou’s ability to connect with her audience is unparalleled.
Her performances were not merely recitations but deeply engaging experiences that invited listeners into her world. Through her storytelling, she weaved together the threads of her life, her heritage, and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her words were a testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience and transformation.
As thought leaders and global citizens, we have learned invaluable lessons from Maya Angelou’s life and work. Her dedication to speaking truth to power and her unwavering commitment to social justice have inspired us to use our own voices to advocate for change. Angelou’s work reminds us that our stories matter and that sharing them can be a powerful catalyst for healing and transformation.
One of the most profound aspects of Maya Angelou’s legacy is her ability to articulate the complexities of the human experience. In her autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, she offers a raw and unfiltered account of her childhood, marked by trauma and adversity. Yet, through her resilience and determination, she transforms her pain into a powerful narrative of survival and triumph. This ability to turn personal hardship into a source of strength and inspiration is a hallmark of her work and a guiding principle for us.
Hearing Maya Angelou perform in public was not just an auditory experience; it was a soulful journey. Her voice carries the weight of history and the promise of a better future. Whether she was reciting her poetry, delivering a speech, or engaging in a conversation, Angelou’s presence commanded attention and respect. She had an extraordinary gift for making each listener feel seen, heard, and valued.
Photo: Maya Angelou. Credit: Dwight Carter.
Angelou’s contributions extend far beyond her literary achievements.
As a civil rights activist, she worked alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, advocating for racial equality and social justice. Her activism was not limited to the U.S.; she was a global advocate for human rights, using her platform to address issues of oppression and discrimination worldwide. Her work reminds us of the interconnectedness of our struggles and the importance of standing in solidarity with marginalized communities everywhere.
In her later years, Maya Angelou continued to inspire new generations through her teaching, public speaking, and mentorship. Her wisdom and guidance have shaped the lives of countless individuals, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in the world. As we strive to be thought leaders and global citizens, we draw on Angelou’s example of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice.
Maya Angelou’s legacy is a testament to the power of words to heal, inspire, and transform.
As we honor Maya Angelou’s life and legacy, we are reminded of the enduring power of her voice and the timeless relevance of her message. Her words continue to resonate with us, guiding us on our journey to become more compassionate, just, and empathetic global citizens.
Importance of expanding your horizons and building a strong network
Marietta, Ohio. In my speech at Marietta College I discussed the importance of expanding your horizons and building a strong network. In this talk, titled “Go Broad, Network,” I share valuable insights and practical advice on how to leverage diverse experiences and connections to achieve success in your academic and professional careers. Join me as we explore strategies for effective networking and the benefits of a broad-based approach to learning and growth.
New York, N.Y. It was an honor to return to one of my two hometowns in Ohio recently to accept an award for leadership from Marietta College. This accolade was in recognition of my efforts with Orphans International Worldwide and the J. Luce Foundation, particularly for our initiatives in nurturing, supporting, and educating Young Global Leaders.
During my visit, I had the privilege of engaging with many students in the McDonough Leadership Program at Marietta College. I shared insights, offered advice, and discussed the importance of global leadership and social responsibility. I was also invited to mentor several students remotely from New York, continuing our mission of fostering the next generation of leaders.
This video chronicles my journey back to my roots, the warm reception from the college community, and the profound experiences that underscore the significance of leadership, mentorship, and giving back to the community.
Tags: Jim Luce, Marietta College, Young Global Leaders, Leadership Award, McDonough Leadership Program, Orphans International Worldwide, J. Luce Foundation, Education, Mentorship, Professional Advice, Social Justice, Community Engagement, Ohio, Returning Home, Midwestern Hometown, Leadership Development, College Awards
New York, N.Y. —The Stewardship Report on Connecting Goodness, the digital publication arm of the J. Luce Foundation, has reached a significant milestone this week by welcoming its 100,000th subscriber.
Naomi Klein, a resident of Highland Park, Illinois, became the landmark subscriber, representing a major achievement for the platform that has been delivering global news and thoughtful commentary since 2010.
“I’m honestly surprised to learn I’m the 100,000th subscriber,” said Klein during a recent interview. “I’ve been searching for news sources that offer more than the standard perspectives, and colleagues kept mentioning The Stewardship Report. After browsing through several articles, I was impressed by the global scope and the focus on positive change.
The Stewardship Report has evolved significantly since its inception.
Following the pandemic, the organization transitioned to a subscription-based model that has proven successful in sustaining its mission while remaining an affordable alternative to mainstream publications like The Washington Post and The New York Times.
“What drew me in was the international perspective,” Klein explained. “Most American news sources claim to offer global coverage, but they still view everything through an American lens.The Stewardship Report genuinely seems to value diverse global viewpoints, which is refreshing.”
The publication’s readership reflects this international focus, with subscribers distributed evenly across continents. Leadership reports comparable readership numbers in Germany, Japan, and Israel, though the publication’s organizational core remains centered on the U.S. East Coast.
Jim Luce, founder of the J. Luce Foundation, expressed pride in the publication’s growth. “When we launched The Stewardship Report, we envisioned a platform that would connect people committed to positive global change. Reaching 100,000 subscribers validates our approach and the hunger for news that uplifts rather than divides.”
The Stewardship Report’s mission centers on uplifting humanity and cultivating global leadership. The publication has maintained firm editorial principles, respecting all races, creeds, and genders while standing firmly against authoritarianism and oligarchy.
“That principled stance was another selling point for me,” Klein noted. “I appreciate news sources that are transparent about their values.The Stewardship Report doesn’t pretend to be value-neutral—they’re clear about standing for human dignity and against authoritarian systems.”
Klein, who works as an environmental consultant, represents the growing demographic of readers seeking alternatives to traditional news sources. “The subscription cost is nominal compared to what I get in return—thoughtful analysis delivered around the clock that helps me stay informed about global developments relevant to my work and personal interests.”
The publication operates on a 24/7 basis, publishing content continuously to serve its international audience across different time zones. This approach has helped it build loyal readership communities across continents.
“I check the site first thing in the morning over my coffee,” said Klein.
“I particularly value the coverage of environmental initiatives and social entrepreneurship across different countries. These stories rarely make it to the front pages of major papers but are crucial for understanding how change happens globally.”
Media analysts note that The Stewardship Report’s growth reflects broader trends in digital publishing, with readers increasingly willing to pay for specialized content that aligns with their values and interests.
“Reaching 100,000 subscribers is just the beginning,” said the publication’s editor-in-chief. “We’re investing in expanded coverage of global humanitarian efforts and developing more in-depth features on leadership initiatives across different cultures.”
The publication plans to commemorate this milestone by launching a special series highlighting the stories of impact-driven leaders from 100 different countries, symbolizing their global reach and commitment to diverse perspectives.
Klein offered some suggestions for the platform’s future development: “I’d love to see more community features that connect subscribers who share similar interests. The strength of this platform isn’t just its content but the community of globally-minded readers it’s building.”
As The Stewardship Report celebrates this milestone, it continues to focus on its founding mission—connecting goodness across borders and cultures while providing an accessible alternative in the global news landscape.
“In a media environment often focused on division and conflict,” Klein concluded, “finding a publication committed to highlighting humanity’s capacity for positive change is not just refreshing—it’s essential.”
Dr. Judy Kuriansky, a clinical psychologist affiliated with Columbia University, has collaborated with JIm Luce of Orphans International Worldwide (www.orphansinternational.org) and the J. Luce Foundation (www.lucefoundation.org) during natural disasters such as the earthquake in Haiti and the Tsunami in Japan.
Through our collective efforts, we have empowered youth and enriched communities globally, as well as here in New York, where we have raised over two million dollars and impacted the lives of over 1,000 young individuals,” said Jim Luce, the founder and CEO of The J. Luce Foundation and Orphans International. “We run a school and are opening an orphanage for “Untouchable” (dalit) children in Bihar, India.”
The charities have had projects in the United State as well as in Bangladesh, Canada, China, Colombia, Cuba, Ghana, Greece, Guyana, Haiti, India, Indonesia, Jamaica, Pakistan, Palestine, Peru, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania.
Thomas Dudley, Jim Luce’s direct descendant, was Gov. of Massachusetts Bay Colony and co-founder of Harvard.
Clare Boothe Luce was a Renaissance woman: U.S. House of Rep. (CT) & first female U.S. Ambassador, married to Henry Luce, co-founder and editor of Time-Life.
Lt. Richard Warren, Jim Luce’s direct descendant, arrived on The Mayflower 404 years ago in 1620.
Rear Admiral Stephen Bleecker Luce founded U.S. Naval War College in addition to today’s SUNY Maritime.
The James Jay Dudley Luce Foundation has awarded our Award for Public Service to New York and New Jersey Assembly Members and New York City Council Members
