Purpose Prize

Marc Freedman Portrait

The Latest from CoGenerate

Lasting Impact

Lasting Impact

CoGenerate Co-CEO Marc Freedman’s most recent book, How to Live Forever, was published by Hachette/Public Affairs in 2018, generating a lot of great attention. And it’s not over yet! Every week, the New York Times Sunday Opinion section includes a print-only feature...

Check Out Our Signature Event On Cogenerational Activism!

Check Out Our Signature Event On Cogenerational Activism!

On May 22, more than 1,100 people registered to learn more about the important cogenerational work our 2023 Innovation Fellows are doing. These 15 leaders are bringing generations together to solve problems and bridge divides. And each one has a unique and inspiring...

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Jannie Harriot

South Carolina African American Heritage Commission
Purpose Prize Fellow 2009

Seeing black children disconnected from their heritage, Harriot set out to recognize and preserve the cultural richness and contributions of African Americans in South Carolina.

Seeing black children disconnected from their heritage, Harriot set out to recognize and preserve the cultural richness and contributions of African Americans in South Carolina.To Harriot, the accomplishments of black ancestors can powerfully affect black children: “School children are able to identify with their heritage and the contributions of their ancestors and feel a sense of pride and self-esteem. This self-esteem transfers into more successful students on many levels.” Harriot has helped bring inspirational history to children through the South Carolina African American Heritage Commission, which identifies and promotes the preservation of historic sites, structures, buildings, and culture demonstrating the African American experience in South Carolina. When Harriot became the commission’s chairperson in 2001, she focused on enhancing programming, developing funding sources, and increasing visibility through collaborations with state and local historical organizations and an aggressive public relations plan. In 2009 at age 66, Harriot became executive director of the foundation that raises money to support the commission’s efforts. (She still serves with the commission as vice chairperson.) Soon Harriot will publish a book chronicling the history of African American education in Hartsville, South Carolina, and her efforts to save her former high school in that town from commercial development.