Building trust for collective action and social change

Meet the Researcher

Hi! I'm Savanna Lyons. I wear many hats: nonprofit leader, organizer, coach, volunteer, neighbor, daughter, friend. One of those hats is as a researcher at Teachers College, Columbia University, where I study Adult Learning and Leadership. Specifically, I'm studying how people learn to build trust so that they can take action together.

I created this site to tell you more about myself and my research. Maybe you're here because I invited you to join a study. If so, I hope this website will help you decide whether to participate. Or, maybe you're here because you're interested in research on trust. Either way, I'd love to talk with you about trust and social change. Let's get to know each other!

Learn About Me

A group of people gather around and atop a large monument, holding signs with messages in support of nature and against economic inequality. The monument features statues of figures and a large lion. The atmosphere is one of activism and protest, with visible expressions of determination among the participants.

I'm a researcher and trainer focused on helping people build skills for democracy, collaboration and social change. I'm also a nonprofit leader, coach and community organizer. I've learned some hard lessons about trust and collaboration, and that's why I'm drawn to this work. Read my story.

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Learn about My Research

My latest research project is called "Building Trust for Collective Action: How Strong Trust-Builders Learn Their Craft." Learn more.

Check out some of the resources I've compiled on trust-building and collaboration for social change. Learn more.

Learn about Trust and Social Change

Get In Touch

Want to connect? Have a question about my research? Send me a message!