Dave Santulli (United Planet): 10 Key Things You Must Know
Overview
Dave Santulli, an inspiring figure in the realm of global community building, is the founder and president of United Planet, a renowned nonprofit organization. United Planet's mission is to create a global community, one relationship at a time, through cross-cultural understanding and service. Dave Santulli is also the creator of the concept of Relational Diplomacy, aimed at improving international relations through personal connections. His vision has touched the lives of many across the globe, fostering global citizenship and peacebuilding initiatives in over 40 countries.
1. Founding of United Planet
- United Planet was established by Dave Santulli in 2001 with the aim of fostering global connections through volunteerism and experiential learning. The organization operates by connecting volunteers with programs worldwide, focusing on creating an interconnected global community. Through United Planet, Santulli emphasizes the power of personal relationships in bridging cultural divides, an initiative that has impacted thousands of participants globally, contributing to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
2. Concept of Relational Diplomacy
- Dave Santulli introduced the concept of Relational Diplomacy, which emphasizes peace-building through the cultivation of interpersonal relationships and friendships across various cultural lines. This approach pivots away from traditional conflict-centered diplomacy, aiming instead to foster mutual understanding and collaboration by focusing on common human experiences and relationships.
3. Educational Background and Personal Achievements
- Santulli holds a Master’s degree in International Affairs from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He has also completed an Executive Non-Profit Management Certificate from Harvard Business School. His educational credentials support his endeavors in promoting cross-cultural understanding and global education through systemic, informed strategies.
4. Living and Working Abroad
- Dave Santulli's experiences living in different parts of the world, including a significant stint as a CEO in Tokyo, have deeply enriched his cultural awareness and influenced his work at United Planet. His global perspective is further underscored by his travels to over 100 countries and his proficiency in several languages including Japanese and Spanish.
5. Leadership in United Planet
- Under Santulli's leadership, United Planet has expanded to involve participants from diverse backgrounds in programs aimed at sustainable development. The organization has accumulated over two million hours of volunteer service worldwide, with projects aimed at enhancing health, education, and environmental sustainability.
6. Contribution to Global Citizenship
- Dave Santulli's efforts have been pivotal in fostering global citizenship, particularly among young people. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures through hands-on experience and personal connections, thus nurturing informed, empathetic leaders equipped to tackle global challenges.
7. Appointment of New Leadership
- In November 2024, United Planet announced the appointment of Jill Tracy as the new CEO, marking a new era for the organization. Santulli remains actively involved in special projects, ensuring the continuity and growth of United Planet's mission and values.
8. Publications and Thought Leadership
- Santulli is an accomplished author, having contributed significant works on relational diplomacy and global education. His publications include "Relational Diplomacy: Innovations in Peacebuilding," which reflects on using personal relationships as a foundation for sustainable peace efforts across communities.
9. Impact on Volunteerism
- United Planet, under Santulli’s guidance, has become a prominent player in global volunteerism. The organization’s programs provide transformative experiences that enhance volunteers’ cross-cultural understanding and have a lasting impact on the communities they serve.
10. Vision for the Future
- Santulli’s ongoing vision includes expanding United Planet’s reach through technological advancements like virtual exchanges and online internships, which broaden the access to international volunteerism by bridging geographical and economic barriers.
Conclusion
Dave Santulli's work with United Planet and his introduction of Relational Diplomacy underscore a lifetime commitment to fostering peace and understanding through personal relationships. His innovative approach to intercultural diplomacy and global education continues to resonate, as United Planet thrives in creating a more connected world. As the organization enters a new phase under Jill Tracy's leadership, Santulli’s foundational vision and dedication to empowering global citizens remain central to United Planet's enduring impact.