Tiffani Bell

Tiffani Ashley Bell is the Founder and Executive Director of The Human Utility, an organization dedicated to increasing water affordability for families in the United States through crowdfunding and community support. Since its inception in July 2014, The Human Utility has assisted over 3,000 individuals, particularly in cities like Baltimore and Detroit, by helping them pay their water bills and avoid the consequences of water shutoffs and tax sales.12

Background and Education

Tiffani holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Systems and Computer Science from Howard University. She is also a graduate of the Stanford Graduate School of Business, where she completed a Master of Science in Management as a Sloan Fellow in 2021.24 Her early career included roles as a programmer and entrepreneur, notably founding Pencil You In, a service that enabled local businesses to manage appointments online.12

Achievements and Recognition

Bell has received numerous accolades for her work, including being named one of The Root's 100 Most Influential African Americans in 2015 and a Grist 50 awardee for her innovative contributions towards sustainability.12 She was also a Technology & Democracy Fellow at the Harvard Kennedy School, where she focused on water affordability.13 Her efforts have garnered significant media attention, with coverage from major outlets such as The New York Times, NPR, and CNN.23

Impact of The Human Utility

Under her leadership, The Human Utility has raised substantial funds, including $100,000 from Y Combinator, and has played a crucial role in turning water services back on for many families.23 Tiffani emphasizes the importance of community involvement and transparency in addressing systemic issues related to water access, advocating for the belief that access to basic resources like water is a fundamental human right.3