Cat Summers, PhD

I am a social scientist studying business sustainability and leadership. My research reflects my passion for understanding others and helping individuals, leaders, and businesses that want to grow.

I am currently a post-doctoral research fellow at the Erb Institute for Global Sustainable Enterprise and the Leadership Initiative at the University of Michigan. My research examines business leaders for social and environmental sustainability. For example, in one line of work, I examine why and when these leaders emerge. In another, I examine how market values influence leaders' humanity. For example, I've found that environmental nonprofits becoming more business-like inadvertently distances people from nature. 

I completed my doctoral studies at the University of Virginia's Convergent Behavioral Science Initiative, jointly hosted by the School of Engineering and Darden Business School. Prior to completing my PhD, I worked for almost a decade in environmental non-profits, managing corporate donors and working with campaigners on award-winning community projects like #SaveTheBees. I am currently part of the Impact Scholar Community leadership team. In my spare time, you will find me outside with my dog.