About

For more than three decades, Gary L. Polk has served as both a collegiate educator and a trusted business consultant, guiding countless CEO’s, students and social entrepreneurs toward success. Over those 34 years, the landscape has shifted dramatically—student debt has soared past $1.5 trillion, and systemic inequities have continued to impact Black and Brown communities across the nation.
Recognizing the urgent need for change, Gary saw an opportunity during the COVID-19 pandemic. With the rise of virtual platforms like Zoom, he launched the Polk Institute Foundation (Pi)—a bold initiative designed to empower purpose-driven founders from all backgrounds.
At the Polk Institute, social entrepreneurship isn’t just a business model—it’s a movement. Every venture is rooted in the passion of its founder and committed to the Triple Bottom Line: People, Planet, and Profit. Gary champions the belief that ethical leadership and profitability are not at odds—they’re essential partners in building sustainable, inclusive success.