Institute for Humane Education

The Institute for Humane Education does what it says it does and strives to do it in a wise and impactful way. I love that the organization clearly aligns with its own values -- when doing work with teachers, in their graduate courses, in their speaking and writing. The people associated with the Institute are outstanding individuals just trying to figure out how to be solutionaries in a challenging world.

This book offers answers for our future on this planet. I read it, then I listened to it. Zoe (the author) did a terrific job reading the book and it is an easy listen. I am recommending this book to anyone and everyone that I know. We need to make changes, small or big, but we must move forward. Thank you Zoe, for giving us options for our future.
Megan

After years of engaging with IHE, I continue to find inspiration, strategic guidance, and striking resources / people in every interaction I have with the organization. They provide an impact-ready platform rooted in guiding individuals, teams, and organizations towards making positive systemic change across all living dimensions.

This is my second year of working with the incredible team at IHE, and these wonderful people full of hope, passion, and dedication to creating a better world continue to inspire me!

I am the director of graduate programs at IHE. We offer our graduate programs through a partnership with Antioch Univeristy. I have been involved with IHE for approximately 25 years, first as a board member and then as graduate program director. IHE is a model for what non-profit organizations could be: it is driven by integrity, compassion, and vision. It values the interconnectedness between people, animals, and the natural world, and is committed to mutual thriving. The culture at IHE among our many team members is vibrant, open, and collaborative. I cannot recommend IHE more highly. It is a pinnacle experience to work there.

Joining the team at the Institute for Humane Education (IHE) has been a truly transformative experience. From day one, I felt welcomed into a positive and nurturing environment that embodies the very core values we teach—a just, healthy, and humane future. The organization’s commitment to creating a better world through education is palpable in every aspect of its work.

IHE doesn’t just talk about humane education; every person who works there lives it. The focus on cultivating empathy, critical thinking, sustainable systems and respect for all living beings is woven into our daily operations and interactions. IHE's leadership is deeply invested in the well-being of the team and the communities we serve, making it a genuinely fulfilling workplace.

As someone who just started, I can already see our profound impact on individuals and communities alike. It's inspiring to be part of an organization dedicated to empowering educators to create just and meaningful change. If you’re passionate about making a difference and implementing the solutionary approach, IHE is the place to be!

I believe in this organization will help transform education as we know it into a powerful experience that can engage and activate youth around the world as changemaker's in their communities. The Solutionary Framework is revolutionary and provides a pedagogy and path for learners of all ages!
Thank you IHE for all you do to make the world a better place for place!

It all started with a book title that caught my attention online : Zoe Weil's "The World Becomes What We Teach"- something about it resonated with me deeply. It was as if a spark had been lit, and I found myself thinking about it long after I had closed the computer and out of the blue, my friend Akash Patel contacted me with IHE and its Solutionary Micro-credential Program. The more I read about IHE and its philosophy, the more convinced I became that this was the direction I wanted to take in my teaching career.
IHE's focus on connecting education with issues of social justice, sustainability, and animal protection felt like the perfect extension of my own values and work in Environmental Education and Global Citizenship. The idea of empowering students to think critically and ethically about the world around them and their role in it was incredibly inspiring.
As I immersed myself in IHE's resources, program, and training, my passion for humane education grew. I wanted to share this transformative approach with others, especially in Argentina, where I felt it could make a real difference. I was offered to become a local coach for IHE, and my journey reached a new level.
Now, I have the privilege of working with my own students, guiding them to become thoughtful, compassionate, and active global citizens. I also have the incredible opportunity to train other educators, sharing the principles of humane education and helping them bring this approach into their own classrooms. Seeing the impact of these ideas on teachers and students alike is deeply rewarding.
From a simple book title that sparked my curiosity to my current role as a local coach, my journey with IHE has been transformative. It has not only enriched my own teaching practices but has also allowed me to contribute to a broader movement of education that promotes a more just, humane, and sustainable world

I joined the IHE board in February 2023. The joy and positivity among the staff fuels ground-breaking work. Education and our world sorely needs the inspiration and the know-how that IHE brings for change-making. Students learn to use both creative and critical thinking skills for solving problems that result in the most good and least harm. I attended Zoe Weil's book launch in Maine where I experienced an audience of 200+ stomping their feet in enthusiastic support. IHE's mission and achievements are nothing short of spectacular.

I first connected with IHE at a conference some 15 years ago. What I learned there transformed my teaching, making it more meaningful and engaging for my students. It is my wish for all teachers to have access to programs and materials IHE provides to guide teachers and students to become motivated and inspired change-makers for the future. This is why I joined the IHE team just over a year ago and now devote my time to sharing the institute's approach with teachers and students from all over the world.

Several years ago when I began my doctoral journey with Antioch University, I fortuitously learned about the work of IHE. In doing so, I felt ardently aligned with the Humane Education approach and decided to pursue a specialization in it. Through the coursework, I had the great gift of learning and growing with the instructors and students and witnessed not only my evolution as an educator but also experienced profound shifts in my personal life and value systems. Having shared this, I highly recommend the IHE graduate programs and feel as if my decision to enroll was one of the best professional and personal decisions I have made.

During the 202/2023 academic school year, I participated in a yearlong experience with the Institute from Humane Education. I discovered the intricacies of Solutionary Thinking by carefully designed modules that helped me to learn about the framework and ultimately, myself. Additionally, once a month, a meet-up was held to break down the material together and connect with like-minded individuals. The facilitator of this experience, Julie Meltzer, was a phenomenal thought partner who made time outside of these meetings to collaborate, brainstorm, and problem solve. She exemplified everything that the organization promotes! Ater the experience ended, I felt empowered to lead my young students through this work and to consider the practices of the institute within my instructional design.

IHE is a great resource for teachers, parents, and students alike and a great model for all other non-profits. First as an IHE student, then as a donor, then as a board member, and now as a fanboy of the organization, I have been following IHE's journey for over two decades. While the organization has grown in that time so as to be able to reach more people around the country and globe, it has maintained its vision and heart. I am a better person because of IHE and am grateful that it continues to do such meaningful work.

The Institute for Humane Education is an incredible organization! I have learned so much and found such a beautiful, supportive community. I am thankful to have found this organization.

I recently graduated with a master of arts from IHE, and I couldn't have asked for a more rewarding grad school experience. The faculty is smart, supportive, and engaged. Each teacher opened my mind, in their own way encouraged me to pursue my interests related to humane education, and coached me through the program. If I could do it all over again, I would. I graduated with a more informed perspective of the world. The world would be a better place if everyone would study and practice humane education.

I attended the IHE Solutionary Microcredential Program which I found illuminating and helpful : I improved my skills as a teacher to make my school solutionary -focused and interdisciplinary around real-world challenges

The Institute for Humane Education has helped advance me personally and professionally in so many ways. The material covered in the IHE program has given me the tools to prepare my young students to become leaders in their school communities and to develop reverence and respect for animals, the planet and one other. I am currently learning about the Solutionaries process, working at my own pace around my busy schedule! This is one of the most effective tools for educators in developing young minds. The instructors at IHE are invaluable, always there to support and encourage you. The IHE isn’t just a place to learn, it’s a community; a compassionate collection of like minded, caring, intelligent, engaging people. I highly recommend IHE for anyone seeking to enhance their professional
or personal development.

I had the fantastic opportunity to attend the Human Education Residency week. I was honored to meet incredible individuals and to learn from exceptional educators. It makes you think, reflect and understand what is valuable in life and how to educate yourself not for success but for being a person that can contribute to society with values, respect and care about others, animals and nature.

The Institute for Humane Education is an amazing nonprofit doing incredible work in the world. Zoe is a visionary and her vision for the world is one that I hope we can see someday. I been a fan of IHE's work for over 15 years since I first discovered the movement and it changed my life and the course of my career. I have attended the IHE summer institute, read several of Zoe's books, and incorporated the IHE philosophy into my work running my own nonprofit. I am grateful that I discovered IHE's work and I hope that it will continue to expand and ripple out around the globe, planting seeds of change in all directions.

Since my first introduction to IHE, I became an advocate of humane education. I watched Zoe Weil's TEDx Talk, "The World Becomes What You Teach" and, as a teacher educator who specializes in social studies and global education, it transformed the way I viewed my role in preparing future teachers. I have since used many IHE resources and revised my course syllabi to inspire my students to infuse the tenets of humane education in their curriculum, no matter the educational context. Zoe has also been a guest speaker in my classes many times, leaving a last impression on my students who reference her years later in their Master's capstone defenses. Because I believe so strongly in the mission and methods of humane education, IHE is featured in my publications, including peer-reviewed journal articles, blog posts, and my new co-authored book on innovative educational approaches and thought leaders who are shaping a more just and sustainable world.

Collectively, the people I have met, the programs in which I have participated, and the resources and ideas I have gleaned from the IHE website, blog, and social media forums have all immensely improved my professional skills as a teacher. On a personal level, I have learned to make more informed consumer choices to lessen my impact on the environment, other people, and all animals.

I am a better person because of this organization, and I encourage others to consider how they, too, can enhance their lives and communities by supporting the Institute for Humane Education.

Elizabeth Crawford, Associate Professor, College of Education, University of North Carolina Wilmington, IHE Curriculum Advisory Board member

The alumni of this group are exceptional educators, the resources for educators are top notch, and the founder is a truly wonderful person. The world needs more teachers to use these resources so that all our children have the opportunity to become solutionary thinkers.

In the last few years, IHE has redoubled its efforts to reach educators and learners, and the results have been remarkable. A new suite of microcredentials and a wealth of free resources for implementing the Solutionary Framework make it easier than ever before for teachers to engage with IHE to transform their practice. If the world becomes what we teach––and indeed it does––it is imperative that we teach it to be Solutionary.

The resources are tremendous and useful for the unique aspects of humane education. I use them with college students learning to apply humane education in their communities, schools, or businesses.

The Institute for Humane Education offers unique and inspiring programs for lifelong students (that's all of us!). IHE's graduate program studies have provided me with a framework for considering the environment, human rights, and animals in my personal and professional life. While this type of curriculum seems novel now, I am eager to see more of it in our classrooms and communities!

After reading "The World Becomes what we Teach," I asked The Institute for Humane Education (IHE) to provide a Keynote (Zoe Weil) and workshops for my academy, The Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA). She worked with faculty, our outreach staff, and our students. IHE's vision of a better world was in perfect sync with our own "To ignite and nurture creative, ethical, scientific minds that advance the human condition."

José M. Torres, PhD
IMSA President Emeritus

Institute for Humane Education's graduate program has given me a new perspective on how to view and analyze current global and societal issues. My experience and what I learned through the program have given me the clarity and confidence to work towards a better future and shape the direction of my life and career. After completing the program, I have had multitudes of opportunities to further my education through webinars and resources that IHE continues to create and curate.

I’ve been an advisor to the Institute for Humane Education for many years, and the work they do – and the way they do it – are paving the way for a truly humane and sustainable future. Great organization with a visionary mission and a practical approach to achieve it! Superb!

I am a graduate of the Institue for Humane Education. I sought an advanced degree that aligned with my values, would further expand my world views, and allow me to discover my path in creating a just world. IHE not only changed my perception, but the instructors also taught me how to analyze micro and macro problems and then figure out solutions that would benefit all. I am very grateful to everyone at IHE and thankful for the experiences I had and continue to have today because of them.

The most brilliant component of the IHE framework is their solutionary process. As a former public policy teacher, I know that one of the reasons why we repeatedly fail to adequately address societal challenges is that we all too often advocate for solutions that address their symptoms rather than their causes, and only address the perspectives of the most vocal stakeholder groups. IHE's "solutionary process" teaches students to design public policy solutions that instead address root causes and consider the perspectives and needs of all stakeholder groups (across differences). To accomplish this, students learn how to think critically, systemically, strategically, and creatively about how to address the interconnected systems that cause or reproduce societal challenges, as well as the beliefs and worldviews that lead to these systems. More than ever, we need these types of skills and dispositions to repair our democracy.

IHE is a small organization with an incredibly big message: a just, healthy, and sustainable world is possible. We simply need to focus our educational system on preparing our young people to be solutionaries! For those us who may be overwhelmed by the noise of the media and the enormity of the challenges we face as a people and as a planet, the message is like music. It inspires hope, joy, energy, and action! For me, the action was to step out of retirement as a school superintendent and join Zoe and her team in helping schools prepare students not just for college or career but to make the world a better place. Such a mission for schools resonates deep in my heart, and I know it will for educators and others all over the world. I am honored to devote myself to this organization and excited to join with others in the ultimate mission of preserving our planet and all that strives to live, breathe, and blossom on it.

I am a recent graduate from IHE and this program offered me the the most meaningful educational experience of my life. After several decades of combined experience both as a student and an educator, I discovered the true meaning of education in my graduate program here. Through engaging content and meaningful discourse with faculty and peers, I have learned to see my own life choices and my advocacy work through a framework that includes humans rights, animal protection, and environmental preservation. I appreciate that system change and individual change are two sides of the same coin - both are needed in the world for real transformation to occur.

Many of the faculty and peers that I have met at IHE have now become dear friends because of our very special shared experiences, most of which were life-changing. There's no educational or professional institution where I have felt more at home that I did/do at IHE - there really is no place like it. That is why I know that I will remain involved in some capacity with IHE for a very long time.

I chose the Institute for Humane Education for my graduate studies due to its philosophy and work towards a better world for everyone. Not only does IHE inspire and produce the brightest educators, it also produces educators that see the world through a solutionary lens.

Personally, the Institute for Humane Education has changed my life and continues to change the lives around me to this day. I can't speak highly enough of IHE; if I could give 100 stars for this rating, I would.

In one way or another, I have been associated with IHE for over a decade now because I believe in IHE’s work. As a student, volunteer, and now adjunct faculty, I believe that IHE offers a unique framework for re-imagining our educational system. IHE’s programs and resources provide teachers, along with parents and other caregivers, with the knowledge and tools to empower students to solve today’s most pressing problems, from the climate crisis to species extinction to systemic racism, and to create a better future for themselves and their communities. IHE’s approach recognizes that the most entrenched issues facing humanity are all interconnected, and that to solve these complex problems requires deep understanding of the root causes of the problems and the development of strategies for dismantling the underlying systems of oppression. Furthermore, IHE’s educational materials center issues of animal protection, in addition to human rights and environmental ethics, as key to a transformational education. Becoming a part of IHE has given me a truly meaningful way to help build a more liberated world for all.

The Institute for Humane Education (IHE) is truly the most ethical organization that I know of, putting every dollar into furthering their mission of creating a fair and just world for all people, other species and Earth. On a shoestring budget that have reached tens of thousands of educators who then reach an exponential number of children, youth and adult learners who are working toward that safe and just future for all. IHE is founded on the power of education to create positive change and allow everyone a true voice. Another incredible aspect of the work of IHE is that it is ever evolving and the leadership and staff are lifelong learners who strive to stay abreast of the information needed, all angles considered, with true systems and critical think to create a just and humane world. I support IHE both personally and professionally and this organization gives me hope for the future.

In a world filled with so much darkness and despair, IHE provides a beacon of hope and light. IHE is, perhaps, the highest impact organization I've ever been a part of and has the potential to solve so many of the world's most pressing problems in a way that is ethical, holistic and long-lasting.

IHE walks the walk in every sense of the phrase - both in its relationships with the outside world and within the organization itself. "Humane" is truly the best word to describe the way in which IHE treats its employees. It is truly a joy to (virtually) show up to work every day knowing that the folks I work for respect my views and opinions, care about my personal well-being and trust me to get the job done with integrity and care. This is, unfortunately, far too rare and I feel beyond lucky to have found this haven every single day.

I have no doubt that IHE will change the world and empower the next generation to do the same.

IHE and Zoe Weil have completely shifted the landscape of our school district. We firmly believe that students' passions and interests can and will change the world. Working with the IHE and Zoe, who provided us with a user friendly framework, tools, and resources, our students investigate their worlds, identify problems in their local school, town, city, state, and/or beyond, and begin to research and propose solutions to solve the issues in their world. This work has lead learning to become more authentic and meaningful as our students take informed action, and become change agents in their community. Most importantly we have fostered a skill set in students, thanks to our partnership with the IHE, that instill essential skills in students that transcend our respective curricula. These skills will help students navigate their world outside of the confines of school, and be successful participants in our Democracy, as they have become part of the Solutionary Generation.

I co-founded this organization, so I know I'm biased, but I'm proud of what we've accomplished. We launched a comprehensive humane education movement linking social justice, environmental sustainability, and animal protection; created the first graduate programs in humane education in the U.S., offered through an affiliation with Antioch University (M.Ed., M.A., Ed.D. Graduate Certificate); and our Solutionary Framework is being embraced by teachers and educational administrators and integrated into classrooms, school districts, and counties, and has even sparked a solutionary school in India. The people attracted to this work and the vision of educating a generation of solutionaries are amazing, and our alumni are leading the way, bringing humane education into communities across the globe.

This non profit has motivated us to open Peaceful Child Education as the first Early Childhood Humane education in South Florida.
It starts with the very young.
We are grateful and excited.

The World Becomes What We Teach.

IHE is a next generation school that creates, delivers & inspires human-centered education in order to ensure that ALL people “have the skills and experiences to be solutionaries for a more just, humane, and healthy world.”

Translate that into my 6th grade classroom at Evergreen Middle School in Evergreen, Colorado and you get a dynamic collaboration that truly teaches kids how to think globally and act locally all the while taking down the walls of our classrooms.

* In-depth, co-created & co-designed Solutionary Work that builds on our CO state standards & district vision.
* A personal invitation to provide student feedback on the new Solutionary Guidebook.
* Powerful personalized action plans to showcase our work in the community (despite our COVID-imposed “Stay at Home” restrictions) via the #TakeActionProject.
* Continued student-ignited world-changing & global collaboration.

ALL made possible because of IHE’s commitment to creating “a world in which all humans, animals, and nature can thrive.”

Institute for Humane Education's graduates are transformative educators who challenge the status quo in curricula, classrooms, and schools. Likewise, IHE's Solutionary program cultivates intentionality. Students begin to approach seemingly immutable institutions with courage and imagination.

I saw Zoe Weil speak on TED talks about 6 months ago after my friend kept using the term, "solutionary." I thought, "Whomever coined that term is a genius." Then, I found IHE and the programs that are offered to educators to deepen their pedagogical practices and to learn how to bring students from solutions-oriented students to solutions-makers. I immediately fell in love with the institute and its mission and vision for the world. I have been a monthly contributor to support the continuation of this crucial program. It is more than a mindset shift that the world, especially educators, needs to have. It is a heartset shift. The free resources available to classroom teachers and the graduate programs available for educators (to learn how to approach project based learning through the solutionary lens) provide the framework, tools, and practices that are necessary to elevate the next generation to their seat at the head of the table. The world will undoubtedly be stronger with more solutionaries.

I have had such a positive experience with IHE. They have provided engaging articles and interesting and meaningful experiences for both myself and my students. I have enjoyed their motto of "The World becomes what we teach" and embraced this in and out of the classroom. They have provided useful resources for teachers and my students have enjoyed becoming "solutionaries" themselves. I also had the unique experience to have interact with some of the staff and they have provided me with many useful things I can pass along to the students

Working with Zoe and IHE has been an inspiration for me, my school and students. The dedication, compassion, and responsiveness is top notch. I am so thankful for this organization and partnership!

I've been following the Institute for Humane Education for nearly a decade, beginning with reading Zoe Weil's life-changing book, Most Good, Least Harm. This book had a profound impact on me as a teacher and activist, as well as in simply how I live my life with more passion and purpose.

The recently released Solutionary Guidebook and companion How to Be a Solutionary are equally powerful resources for teachers and students. The world so desperately needs this type of solutionary thinking, and IHE provides the tools to make profound transformations happen.

This is such important, meaningful work. IHE is a bright beacon of hope when there's so much darkness and despair.

The Institute for Humane Education (IHE) maintains the highest ethics in responsible use of donations. IHE provides state of the art resources, for free, to teachers, parents, social workers, anyone who wants to implement humane education. Lastly, IHE partners with Antioch University New England to provide the best training available at the graduate level to increase the practice of humane education globally.

The teachings of IHE have made a large impact on both my children and myself. Listening to Zoe Weil continues to help me better understand my impact on global issues and has enabled me to be a better, father friend and citizen. I hope that more of her teachings can find their way to public education so perhaps this next generation can undo some of what has been done over the years.

I was honoured to teach in this program. I taught Environmental Ethics. The classes are a perfect size to encourage the building of relationships that last far beyond the degree program and courses themselves, which is so valuable when graduating and moving into the world. They are also a blend of academic and practical readings and assignments, so that students learn the theory and research alongside the ways to put them into practice. This is so rare at the graduate degree level.

The Institute provides different options for programs so that it can be flexible for students with more or less time to spend on obtaining credentials in Humane Education. The students are all so passionate, driven and consciousness and that made the biggest impact on me. They gave me the motivation and inspiration to teach.

The employees and administration of the Institute are exceptional people. All are caring, knowledgeable and passionate about creating a better world and solutionary thinkers and actors that can make real and sustained changes to society. They are such a pleasure to work with. They will go out of their way to help others regardless of circumstances. They also make a point to encourage social justice and acknowledge systemic forms of discrimination. They work hard to improve their own treatment of others, and to assist people in learning how to identify and improve on their own understanding of and how to address inequalities.

There are so many strengths and benefits of this Institute, but above all, it provides a place where people can obtain the education to support their calling in life. And the one thing all students, faculty and administration here have in common is the desire to learn for the sake of making positive change in the world. Humane education should be provided as the foundation for all other education. This is the place to learn about it and put it into practice.

I love this organization! The work being done in schools is amazing and purposeful. From great books and professional learning opportunities to outreach and consultations, IHE is a pathway for a better world!

I've joined IHE over 15 years ago. All this time, they have consistently provided amazing work towards educating people and education systems to understand the impact that we all have on this world. They continuously augmented their own programs tadapting them to current events and states of the world. They have brought new ways to address current and future issues by focusing on people and systems changes that can be applied in various educational institutions.

For the past two decades, IHE has worked to make changes by educating people around the world with unfaltering dedication and determination.

This is an incredible organization helping to change our world through education. Raising solutionaries is an incredible concept. As a mother, it is a goal that I want for my children!

I received my M.Ed. with a concentration in humane education. IHE opened my mind to an entirely new way of thinking and pushed me to look at life through a new lens. I am forever grateful to IHE for deepening my passion for education and our world at large. They are a group of passionate, thoughtful, and authentic people who are working to make the world a better place.

Fantastic organization! It's inspiring to see the work and effort they put into changing the world.

I have loved being part of this organization! They operate with integrity and innovation, and have been a leading voice in the humane education landscape for many years. Their team has a big vision and manages to do so much with a small staff.

As an alum of IHE I can honestly say that this organization works tirelessly to make the world a better place! By training students to be solutionaries, and by modeling the type of teaching all institutions need to incorporate, my life was forever changed by my experience with the Institute for Humane Education.

I have known the founder of the Institute for Humane Education since we were young school girls together in first grade. Zoe has consistently walked her talk over the many decades I have known her, and I am especially moved and inspired by all she has done in imagining, creating and then passing forward this wonderful organization so that it will continue beyond her lifetime. I read their newsletters, watch videos and just generally bask in the good work that they do - so thought provoking and authentic. IHE inspires me to take action in my own life. I am launching an eco-activism project later this year, and it is in no small part because I know it can be done; I watched my friend Zoe do it and I know that I can too. She has lit the flame of positive social change in the hearts of thousands and thousands of people, and through her students and partners, collaborators and others like myself, the work of IHE continues to expand our ideas of what is possible in this world. I truly can not think of a greater gift than the gift of inspiration to take concrete action to make positive change, and this is what IHE does for the world. Bravo!!

In case anyone didn't notice, the world is in desperate need of a reboot in terms of how we view and treat each other, the environment in which we live and the animals we share the world with. The Institute for Humane Education offers such a roadmap through the education of our teachers who play crucial roles in fostering critical thinking and respect of our fellow humans, our environment and animals.

IHE is a true mission driven non-profit. The president and ED has been a volunteer since the organization was founded and is focused on making the world a better place. She contributes much of her own time and resources to this organization and the board follows suit because they care. As a small organization IHE packs a solid punch with some amazing minds who are committed to sharing the solutionary framework with educators of the world to facilitate real change for the people the planet and animals.

I am an alum, former board member and advisor to the Institute for Humane Education and could not be more proud to be associated with this great organization. Their work is vital to the future of our planet and their empowering tools, resources and programs are so important to help raise the next generation of solutionaries.

Zoe Weil is a very special person. The nonprofit she has built, IHE, does work that few do, and more should. They truly help people better understand the causal connections in their world--always with the clear goal of making it better. I couldn't support IHE, and Zoe Weil, more strongly. --Marc Prensky

IHE completely changed my life for the better. I felt a calling to work towards creating a more just, compassionate, sustainable world for all but I had no idea how. That's when I found IHE and I knew I found my place in the world. I entered the graduate program in 2003 and gained an incredible education, learning about the interconnections between various forms of oppression and explotation, as well as age appropriate ways to teach about these issues in engaging ways to foster empathy and reverence, encourage critical thought, and inspire youth empowerd action. Thanks to my education at IHE I have been fortuate enough to work as a professional humane educator for the past 13 years teaching youth of all ages about pressing issues facing our world today and encouraging people of all ages to engage in compassionate activism. Thank you IHE; you transformed the course of my life both personally and professionally and I am forever grateful.

I had the pleasure of taking a humane education class taught by Mary Pat Champeau, and I found the content to be brilliant and thought-provoking, the instruction to supportively challenge me to discover and become the best version of myself, and the paradigm and philosophy espoused by Zoe Weil to be the most inspirational yet achievable hope and plan to tap and transform the innate love and compassion in each of us for all living beings and our planet. Life-changing!

I have learned so much through IHE and the programs offered. What an amazing mission to help others learn about making humane choices through understanding and compassion. Creating a world filled with solutionaries is a great cause to support.

IHE has opened my eyes to so many new points of view and the interconnectedness of the world

The Institute for Humane Education is an amazing organization focused on compassion, vision, and education. I have been blessed to take incredible coursework at IHE with highly knowledgable and experienced professors. Through IHE, I have made many lifestyle changes that reflect a decision to do the Most Good and Least Harm (MOGO). I strongly recommend IHE to anyone who wishes to pursue the connection between the environment, animal protection, and human rights.

This organization can change the world. I’m so grateful I found it; it has changed my teaching into more meaningful and hopeful work. They are teaching me how to create solutionaries for the world’s problems.

When I first read Zoe Weil’s book, Most Good, Least Harm, I knew I had found the organization that would nourish my soul and inspire growth. An organization tackling the world’s most pressing issues through education, IHE will always have my support. Having shaped me to be the Humane Educator I am today, I now work for the nation’s leading farm animal rescue and protection organization, Farm Sanctuary, and I am nearly finished with my master’s in humane education through IHE’s programming. When you support this organization, you support education and positive change.

The Institute for Humane Education, in short, changed my life. Their graduate degree program has provided me with the knowledge to re-enter this world as a conscious and informed global citizen. Their latest program, The Solutionary Program, for middle and high school students should be implemented in every school nationwide, and hopefully worldwide in the future. This educational program helps students understand the world around them to a deep degree, a feature that is lacking in traditional education today. With IHE, future generations will be able to participate fully in society and be active solutionaries.

I am Nick Infante a truck driver w/ Dept. Of Corrections. This is a great organization, back in Aug 2018 I found an injured Great Horn Owl w/ fractured wing on the side of I-84 near Pendleton. I reported it state patrol, got ahold of ODFW then Bob & Lynn at Blue Mountain Wildlife, Bob came out immediately to meet where the owl was. Since then they got the owl immediate care and determined the prognosis and Faiththe Great Horne’s Owl is on her way to recovery and has been improving. I keep in weekly contact w/Lynn to see how Faith is doing to hear positive results and looks like she may be possibly releasable in a couple months. They are great people for what they are doing for these raptors. If it weren’t for me finding her and for Bob and Lynn and there staff being diligent in there work to save these injured raptors, Gaith would have died. Great work

This organization totally changed the trajectory of my life and continues to serve as a lighthouse. It has a profound effect on all of its students and partners and is helping pave the way for a more humane future.

I created a BA in Humane Education at the University of TN after attending a workshop presented by The Institute for Humane Education at the Animal Rights Conference in 1994...The IHE has had a huge impact on my life! I went on to teach Montessori for ten years while heavily referencing the principles set forth by the IHE. I believe that the shift in our cultural paradigm that is prescribed by the IHE is not just a progressive program but an imperative for our future generations, the environment and our tenuous relationship with non-human animals.

I believe IHE to be one of the core organizations enacting change towards a better future, and most importantly, a future better for all life! I'm proud to be a donor.

I am thrilled and very proud to serve as Chair of the Board of Directors for this life-changing Institute. I began my journey with IHE as a student in an online course, went on to complete the Graduate Certificate in Humane Education, and was honored beyond measure when asked to consider service on the Board. As a post-secondary educator, I have seen first-hand the transformative effect of Solutionary principles and pedagogies in my own classrooms, and of Zoe Weil's visionary work on colleagues encountering this high-impact approach to teaching in a range of professional development contexts. I can testify personally to the passion and dedication of the entire staff and Board of Directors, the Alumni Association, and the teachers and other stakeholders who have devoted their time, talents and resources to realizing IHE's mission.

This is an amazing organization. I joined IHE primarily due to their Solutionary Program. It is a program that teaches students to think about all possible impacts of their decisions. I wish every school incorporates this program.

Thank you for this excellent interview with educational innovator, Zoe Weil. At a time when the social service structure here in Maine, and indeed across the United States, is being dismantled by well-meaning but poorly-informed individuals and equally ill-equipped legislators, the message of humane education has never been more sorely needed. It reaches far beyond the realm of education and deep into the field of social service, sowing the seeds of an expanded level of consciousness that incorporates justice, respect and compassion for all life -- people, animals and the environment – and giving hope to many who feel discouraged and disempowered by current trends and problems.
As clinical coordinator for a large social service agency, my primary role is to supervise, train and educate those teammates who perform in a direct care capacity. In this role, I have found IHE’s vision, philosophy, resources and clarity of purpose to be an invaluable asset when it comes to challenging all of us to remain committed to life-long learning, to break from the perception of discipline-specific and professional isolation, and to remind all concerned that we come into our respective fields with a unique set of skills with which to protect the environment, advocate for human and animal rights and defend the inherent value of all cultures.
From Zoe Weil’s TEDx talk (The World Becomes What You Teach) to the numerous free resources available on the IHE website, the Institute for Humane Education has helped keep the fires of passion, curiosity and reflection burning in me and dozens of other social workers, direct care staff, administrators and clinicians who spend their days “at the tip of the service spear” affecting the lives of hundreds of people with serious mental illness, intellectual disabilities and emotional trauma.
Thank you IHE from your brothers and sisters in the social service world who are also working every day for a just, compassionate and healthy world.
George Russell, LCSW, CSWM

The Institute for Humane Education, and the people who work with this organization, impact the world we live in in a substantially positive way by helping to educate others about the choices we make everyday by reaching teachers especially. In helping teachers educate their students about how to make well-informed decisions about food, transportation, work, purchasing choices of consumer goods, IHE helps to transform our world into a more peaceful, just, equitable, and healthy one. I discoverd IHE through my own work in education- that introduction has inspired me to make changes to my life and work that hopefully will ripple into positive change in my life and community. I am deeply grateful for the hard work and dedication of all involved with IHE. They continue to reach out and collaborate with other organizations and individuals- an attitude that demonstrates their dedication to their mission. I have also had the opportunity to witness how IHE manages the people and inner workings of the organization. They walk their talk for sure. Very compassionate, passionate, dedicated people. I deeply appreciate the role model this organization can offer to other organizations.Thank you!

As a current Board Member and a graduate of its Master's program, I have been involved with the the Institute for Humane Education for almost a decade. This organization changes lives - I know that because it has changed mine. Furthermore, it's founder and president does her work as a volunteer, not a paid employee!!! How many organizations can say that? I support IHE not only with my time but also with my financial contributions because I know my money will go directly to helping children create a better tomorrow.

I am a member of the Board of Directors for the Institute, and an alumnus of their M.Ed. program in Humane Education. As an incredibly busy individual, I am very discerning with how I spend my volunteer time, and even more discerning when it comes to taking a leadership role. I am honored to do anything I can to advance the Institute's mission. Their programs are high quality, and meet a need that our world needs now more than ever.

I have been part of two seminar/online classes with IHE. I have learned so much about environmental issues, compassion for our planet and the creatures who live on it, respect for and tolerance of other points of view, the importance of critical thinking, and the joy of taking positive action for my beliefs. Zoe Weil, president of the group, has been an inspiration to so many people, living her life with truth and integrity, and she teaches her life lessons with respect and compassion. The IHE programs, whether they are for teachers or those who want only to learn more about themselves and their relationships with the world and each other, are beautifully crafted. They explore choices and offer their students new ways of looking at life's issues and their own experiences. I love, love, love this organization!

I am a graduate of the Institute for Humane Education with my Masters in Humane Education. IHE is an amazing organization with wonderful teachers that provide ongoing support even after graduation. IHE provided me with the tools to create a humane education program with my local humane society. I am a proud supporter of the work they do!

I attended an online course named Teaching for a Positive Future as I was in a search of something meaningful that could bring me light to incorporate a compassionate approach and practical tools to bring children the opportunity to connect with and care about their environment, other people and animals. The Institute of Humane Education has an outstanding curriculum with incredible educators that bring a life changing experience for those who are in this kind of search.

The Institute for Humane Education is a wonderful organization. I am currently enrolled in the Masters of Education in Humane Education program offered through IHE. The course work is relevant to lives on an individual and global scale. It is presented in a clear, concise way without bias. The instructors and mentors are accessible and extremely knowledgable and helpful. In fact, not only is the course about humane education, it IS humane education.
Having been an Art teacher for the past 25 years and taken numerous courses and already holding a Masters in Administration, I have found this program to be by far the most applicable and meaningful course I've experienced.
The Institute for Humane Education is a fabulous organization.

I am a graduate of IHE with a Masters in Humane Education. As a high school teacher for 7 years, I had incredibly high standards for what I expected in going back to school myself. What IHE provided not only surpassed my expectations but opened new doors of insight and learning which benefited both me and my students. The personalized education, truly humane work ethic, fascinating subjects and go-at-your-own pace timing really makes this program and winner. I continue to stay in touch with my teachers to this day- and they are people I plan to know for the rest of my life. IHE is a great place to learn about yourself, the world, and make your corner of it a better place.

IHE is a wonderful organization that examines many of the major issues of our day. It does so in a way that is creative, supportive, and with a superb faculty. If more people went through the IHE programs, I believe the planet would be better served.

More than two years after enrolling in the Institute for Humane Education's certificate program, I found myself reaching the end of one path and getting ready to start down another. The knowledge, friendships and support I gained through the program are now a part of who I am. When I look back on who I was before I discovered my passion for humane education and who I am now, I am thankful for having had this chance to realize the importance of helping others learn how we can live with compassion and respect for all life. IHE is truly changing the world!

With my background in business strategy, I'm keenly attuned to the effectiveness of different nonprofits. Institute for Humane Education is indeed one of the most high-impact organizations I know. The group's approach to humane education stimulates profound change in individuals. With new awareness, people make vast transformations that help humanity, the environment, and animals. IHE's approach training teachers, activists, and others in humane education enables them expand its reach exponentially. This is an organization truly worthy of support.