Our Story
The Higher Ground Project was created in response to witnessing disconnection and dysfunction in our workplaces and relationships.
We saw a need for work that addresses not only the ineffective systems in our workplaces but also addresses the relational capacity needed to work and live well with others. Even our best systems are only as healthy as the people who build them. It's clear that we need better systems and better culture.
Why are we so disconnected?
We believe at its root, the disconnection we see in our organizations and in our relationships reflects a broader lack of relational dignity, reinforced by cultures and systems that prioritize performance and profit over people.
Relational dignity is the practice of treating others with fundamental respect, care, and humanity. When relational dignity erodes, we become more disconnected from ourselves and from others and our capacity for care shrinks. This lack of dignity gets reflected in the systems we build and in how we relate to one another.
Higher Ground is our response. We help individuals, organizations, and communities build their capacity to create safer, healthier, and more connected ways of working together. Through applied behavioral science, organizational change strategies, trainings and community programming, we raise the bar for how organizations and communities operate.
Why should organizations care about connection?
Disconnection is shaping how we live, work, and relate to one another. It shows up as burnout, anxiety, inefficient, inhumane or simply ineffective work systems, breakdowns in trust, weaker communities, strained relationships, and institutions that struggle to operate at their highest potential. Connection isn’t a “nice to have,” it’s foundational to individual well-being, healthy organizations, healthy systems, productivity and thriving communities. It's a public health crisis.
Furthermore, as our workplaces and communities face increasing polarization and technological change, the relational skills that make us deeply human are becoming essential infrastructure for building ethical systems and culture. Not to mention, it's good for business.
Meet The Founder
Hello! I’m Dr. Crystal Clarke, I’m a social psychologist and organizational change strategist with over a decade of experience applying behavioral science to support leaders and teams in organization development. This work often looks like redesigning organizational systems, leadership support and shifting "toxic" or outdated work culture.
But at the heart of what I do, I help people and organizations see themselves more clearly, and move forward with greater integrity. I help guide people back to themselves and each other and build environments that are human-centered and better connected.
Whether I’m designing organizational change initiatives, advising executive leaders, or facilitating community programs, my approach is always grounded in social intelligence, deep listening, and the belief that sustainable change begins within. I’m here to make sure we don’t just talk about change, we become it.
PhD, Social Psychology, NYU
Ambassador, Foundation for Social Connection
Professional Advisory Council Member, Boys' Club of New York
Research Advisory Council Member, Constructive Dialogue Institute
Organizational Change Management (PROSCI Certification)
Crisis Communications (W.H.O Certification)