Joe Cavanaugh

Joe Cavanaugh is the Founder and CEO of Youth Frontiers, an organization dedicated to inspiring character, civility, and community among young people. He established Youth Frontiers in 1987 after a transformative encounter with a student who expressed the need for kindness and respect in schools. This pivotal moment motivated him to create programs that foster self-awareness, empathy, and connectedness among students, aiming to build school communities where everyone is treated with dignity.12

Under Cavanaugh's leadership, Youth Frontiers offers various retreats and programs designed to instill timeless values such as kindness, courage, and respect in students. The organization also provides resources for educators and community leaders to support youth development.12 Cavanaugh is recognized as a nationally-renowned speaker and advocate for character education, emphasizing the importance of personal character in shaping future leaders.34

In addition to his role at Youth Frontiers, Cavanaugh is involved in initiatives like Leadership Frontiers, further extending his influence in promoting character-driven leadership.35