About the Impact Communications Institute (ICI)

The Impact Communications Institute (ICI) is a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit advancing impact communications — a rigorous, ethical approach to public relations and communications that connects narrative to action, accountability, and measurable outcomes.

Our origin and leadership

The Impact Communications Institute (ICI) was founded by a small group of passionate communicators who saw a widening gap between purpose-led storytelling and real-world impact. Our founding board members came together from organizations including Ben & Jerry’s, KIND Snacks, Yulu Public Relations, Sustainable Brands, and Porter Novelli, united by a shared belief: communications should help drive meaningful change, not simply shape perception.

Today, ICI is stewarded by a dedicated Executive Board, supported by committee chairs and volunteer leaders from The Climate Group, Black Rock, and other mission-driven organizations, who guide our strategy, programming, and educational direction. Melissa Orozco is a founding board member and serves as Acting President of the Board.

Our Mission

To educate and equip emerging communicators with the knowledge, frameworks, and judgment needed to use the tools of communications to help organizations act and communicate responsibly — while making high‑quality learning accessible, affordable, and grounded in real‑world practice.

How we support emerging communicators

ICI is intentionally designed to reduce barriers for early‑career professionals. We do this by:

  • Offering free public programming, including Impact Councils and open community conversations

  • Providing community membership with scholarships to ensure access regardless of financial means

  • Designing learning experiences that prioritize applied judgment over prestige or credentialism

Beginning in Q3 2026, ICI will launch its first Impact Communications (IC) Certificate — an applied, ethics‑first credential built specifically for emerging communicators seeking practical skills, credibility, and confidence early in their careers.

Who we are

ICI is a global network of over 1,200 communicators, with a primary focus on students, early‑career practitioners, career‑switchers, and emerging creators, and a secondary community of senior practitioners who serve as mentors, champions, and advisors.

What we mean by impact communications

Impact communications connects what organizations say, what they do, and what outcomes result — reducing purpose theater and strengthening credibility.

How we work

Education‑first. Practitioner‑centered. No spin. No greenwashing.