Social Change

Our Commitment to Positive Social Change

Social change is at the heart of Walden’s mission. Since our founding in 1970, we’ve attracted a community of lifelong learners who share a common desire to make a difference. To support their efforts, we provide a learning experience that encourages them to pursue and apply knowledge in the interest of the greater good. Our students, alumni, faculty, and staff bring our mission to life through research, conferences, and service projects focused on effecting positive social change.

Walden’s social change initiatives include:

Social Change Impact Report
The Social Change Impact Report provides a detailed picture of the state of social change engagement in America: Americans’ beliefs about social change, the issues they care about, the motivations behind their engagement, the actions they are taking to further social change and the tools they use.

Social Change Conference
Walden’s annual Social Change Conference invites authors, policymakers, social entrepreneurs, and others to share their real-world insights on how to become effective change agents. The conference is designed to inspire and enable participants to challenge their thinking and to motivate them to take action.

Walden Service Network
The Walden Service Network is a free online community that enables members to search for volunteer opportunities and track their volunteer hours. Organizations can also post their service projects to recruit volunteers.

Global Day of Service
While members of the Walden community volunteer as individuals throughout the year, the university’s annual Global Day of Service is an opportunity for the entire Walden community to come together and make an impact in neighborhoods around the world. On the first Saturday of October, Walden volunteers contribute to projects serving schools, food banks, community centers, and more.

Scholars of Change
Watch videos of personal stories from prospective Walden students, current students, and graduates who demonstrate how a Walden degree is helping them make a positive difference in their lives and the lives of those in their communities.

Perspectives on the World
Through Walden’s Perspectives on the World series, distinguished scholars, journalists, social scientists, and activists share their diverse global views with Walden students and faculty at commencement ceremonies and academic residency programs.

Commitment to Social Change Scholarship
The Commitment to Social Change scholarship is available to new students who exemplify Walden’s mission and demonstrate the capacity to effect positive social change.

Presidential Award for Leadership in Social Change
This award honors individuals who have made a profound impact in their local communities, on the nation, or around the world.

Find out how earning your degree from a leading accredited online university can benefit you and your community. Request information or speak with an enrollment advisor by calling 1-866-492-5336. A list of international toll-free phone numbers is available for students outside the United States.