Fundraising is ultimately about helping people believe in and invest in a meaningful future. This session explores the science of hope and how Hope-Centered Leadership can support that work. Participants will learn how hope helps individuals and organizations clarify goals, find pathways through challenges, and strengthen the agency needed to move from aspiration to action.

Dr. Christopher Freeze currently serves as an Assistant Professor for Cybersecurity at the University of Oklahoma’s Polytechnic Institute (OUPI). Before being appointed to OUPI’s faculty, Dr. Freeze served as a Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation where he rose to the Senior Executive Service ranks as a Special Agent in Charge. During his time with the FBI, he investigated and led operations dealing with criminal, cyber, and national security issues. His Ph.D. is in the field of Leadership. His work at OUPI focuses on the intersection of human behavior, cybersecurity, and leadership.