LBB strengthens the emotional and relational capacities people need to belong across difference, take responsibility for one another, and act together for the common good. We envision communities where no one has to disappear to belong, where difference can deepen rather than divide and relationships foster compassion, courage, understanding, and repair.
LBB is designed to carry this body of work forward through shared leadership, responsible governance, documented programs, and accountable partnerships
Rev. Dr. Thandeka
Founder and president, theologian, author, and public interpreter, Rev. Dr. Thandeka originated the theological and relational framework that grounds LBB’s work. Her scholarship, writing, teaching, and facilitation bring together insights from affective neuroscience, affective theological and philosophical traditions, identity formation, belonging, and democratic responsibility.
Jennifer Jennings
Vice President of Finance and Operations | Program Development and Continuity
Jennifer Jennings, CPA, works closely with Rev. Dr. Thandeka to translate vision into practice and build the organizational foundation needed to sustain it. Together, Rev. Dr. Thandeka and Jennifer Jennings have designed and delivered Universal Connections and developed The Untrolling Project. They are also advancing the new Building the Emotional Infrastructure of Democracy initiative.
Jennifer Jennings brings financial, organizational, programmatic, and participant-centered perspectives to LBB’s work, helping ensure that programs are thoughtfully designed, documented, and supported, with appropriate evaluation developed as the work progresses.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors provides fiduciary oversight, protects the mission, and helps ensure that LBB’s programs, assets, and public commitments are managed responsibly.
Board of Directors
• Thandeka, President
• Marlin Lavanhar, Vice President of Congregational Life
• Constance L. Grant, Vice President of Program Development
• Jennifer Jennings, Vice President of Finance & Operations
• Dmitri Sobol, Vice President of Communications
Commitments
LBB’s governance will support:
Financial accountability and transparent reporting
Clear ownership and stewardship of curriculum and intellectual property
Ethical participant-care and confidentiality standards
Appropriate boundaries among education, facilitation, pastoral care, and compassionate understanding
Fair compensation and role clarity
Responsible evaluation and public claims
Continuity beyond the founders’ active involvement
