Operating Principles

Hazel Henderson Center

The Hazel Henderson Center operates at the intersection of intellectual leadership, ethical finance, and systems change. Grounded in Hazel Henderson’s legacy, the Center is committed to advancing independent, rigorous thinking in service of a just and regenerative global economy.

These principles establish how the Center governs, operates, and safeguards its mission.

These principles establish the framework through which all programs, partnerships, and collaborations are evaluated and selected.

Mission Integrity & Intellectual Leadership

We advance independent, systems-based thinking across economics, finance, climate, and equity.

  • Uphold intellectual rigor and interdisciplinary inquiry

  • Ensure programs contribute to real-world progress

  • Convene leading thinkers, practitioners, and emerging leaders

Governance & Accountability

We operate with strong governance and clear fiduciary oversight.

  • Board-led strategic direction and accountability

  • Adherence to nonprofit best practices (duty of care, loyalty, obedience)

  • Conflict-of-interest and independence safeguards

Financial Stewardship

We maintain transparency, independence, and sustainability in all funding.

  • Diversified funding sources; no undue influence from any single funder

  • Clear distinction between restricted and unrestricted funds

  • Audit-ready financial management and reporting

Operational Efficiency

We prioritize disciplined, high-impact operations.

  • Lean structure with clearly defined roles

  • Strategic use of partnerships and in-kind support

  • Ongoing evaluation of effectiveness and impact

Program Excellence & Selectivity

We curate programming that is rigorous, focused, and outcome-oriented.

  • Selective, expert-driven programs

  • Program Committee oversight and review

  • Integration of policy, finance, science, and education.

Investment & Advisory Integrity

We uphold clear boundaries and ethical standards in advisory work.

  • Alignment with principles of sustainable and ethical finance

  • Separation between education, advice, and endorsement

  • Avoidance of real or perceived conflicts of interest

Community & Place-Based Stewardship

We steward the Center as a living, immersive environment.

  • Support residents, collaborators, and participants

  • Integrate residential, educational, and convening functions

  • Maintain clear expectations for use of the space

Ecological Design Goals

We reflect regenerative principles in both form and practice.

  • Integrate permaculture and ecological design in the management of the Center

  • Use the site as a demonstration of sustainability in action

Partnerships & Networked Impact

We operate as part of a broader ecosystem while preserving independence.

  • Build mission-aligned partnerships

  • Clearly define roles: partners, funders, collaborators

  • Expand impact without compromising integrity

Brand Stewardship & Legacy

We protect and advance Hazel Henderson’s legacy.

  • Uphold high standards in all uses of the name and materials

  • Align all activities with the Center’s mission and values

  • Maintain clear guidelines for co-branded and external activities

In Practice

These principles ensure that the Center operates with rigor, transparency, and independence—while supporting a dynamic, collaborative platform for advancing the ethical and regenerative economy.

Governance Stewardship Reference

The Center’s governance, institutional structure, and participation framework are detailed in its Governance & Stewardship document, which operates in alignment with these Operating Principles.