Kids are struggling — in record numbers and often alone. Their parents and teachers are often exhausted and overwhelmed.
These challenges are complex and require a new approach, starting with the core conviction that kids, parents, and teachers have profound capacities, including the inherent capacity to be well.
That’s why we choose to conduct research that is both scientifically rigorous and infused with respect, humility, kindness, and dignity — qualities that, in any other context, we’d simply call…
We listen to what life actually feels like for young people, parents, and educators. We work side-by-side with those who know their own lives best, co-designing every step.
We bring together many disciplines to address these complex challenges — psychology, neuroscience, education, business, contemplative studies, communications, media, the arts.
We hold the long view. This work matters — not only today but for generations to come.
We’re told what makes us stand out isn’t just what we do, but how we do it. We cultivate a culture of belonging, care, and — above all — belief in young people and each other.
We are grounded in compassion, in everything we do. It’s how we’ll chart the path to lifelong mental health and wellness for young people, families, and educators.
“There is no ‘us’ (the reseachers) and ‘them’ (the subjects). Those old distinctions are dissolved. There is only a ‘we.’”
Sona Dimidjian, PhD
Institute Director, Professor,
Department of Psychology and Neuroscience,
University of Colorado Boulder
Sharon Salzberg brought mindfulness and loving-kindness meditation to mainstream American culture fifty years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers.
Anahi Collado, a clinical psychologist and researcher, builds mental health models that draw on the connection and compassion already thriving in communities often overlooked by traditional systems.
Thupten Jinpa, a scholar, former monk, and longtime interpreter for the Dalai Lama, works to translate ancient insights into practical tools for inner wellness and collective flourishing.
Joanna Arch, PhD, collaborates with community practitioners and students to alleviate social anxiety in young people — a condition that affects nearly one in four U.S. adults.
Michele Simpson, JD, is a sought-after professor who weaves together mindfulness, philosophy, storytelling, law, and — above all — community across her courses and programs.
According to the kids she works with, Julie’s job is to help them with their emotions, make sure they are safe, listen to them when they are sad or mad, and let them be themselves.
Explore this website, and our social media, to learn more about how science and love come together — and see how we bring the combination to life every day at our CU Boulder institute.
From students to scholars, families to philanthropic partners, parents to policymakers, researchers to artists, and many more — all are welcome in the Crown Institute community.
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