Eric Dawson

Eric Dawson is the CEO of Peace First, an organization he helped launch at 18 which now works in over 130 countries preparing young people to lead positive social action through compassion and courage. Though a digital platform Peace First provides design tools, money and mentorship for youth to imagine and implement impactful social innovations. A globally recognized expert on youth culture and movement-building, Mr. Dawson received his degrees from Harvard University: a specialized B.A. in economics, sociology, philosophy, anthropology, and political science; M.Ed in human development psychology; and M.Div. in pastoral care and counseling. He is an Ashoka, Echoing Green, and Pop!Tech Fellow. Besides the odd jobs of bartending, electron microscopy, TV commercials, and serving as the driver for the author of Curious George, Eric got his professional start directing a summer camp in Boston’s public housing complexes. His book for young readers, Putting Peace First: Seven Commitments to Change the World was recently published by Viking.

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