We envision a world where people are prepared to handle challenges with resilience and empathy.

Our work is published in partnership with Kendall Hunt Publishing

Authors

Founder of Pathways to Empower Dr. Donna Volpitta

Always an educator, Dr. Volpitta loves finding ways to translate neuroscience so that people can apply it to their own lives. Her work is grounded in the latest research in neurology, psychology, and education. She is the co-author of The Resilience Formula, author of Neuroworld, co-creator of the Nametags Education Program, and is a sought-after speaker. A former classroom teacher (and mother of 4 adolescents!) with experience in both general and special education, Donna holds a doctoral degree in Learning Dis/Abilities from Teachers College, Columbia University.

Co-Founder/CEO Jason Schofield

With a strong background in coaching, management, entrepreneurial consulting, and developing products and services in the technology space, Jason brings his creative spirit and forward-thinking mindset to the Pathways products. Jason feels incredibly fortunate to have the opportunity to unite his three main passions, education, health, and entrepreneurship, through Pathways to Empower.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Why do you use cartoon characters to explain the brain?

    Some people think cartoons are "just for kids," but we disagree. So do the creators of Pixar & Disney Movies, The Simpsons, South Park, Rick & Morty, etc. Most importantly, cartoons are memorable, relatable, and offer wide-ranging appeal.

  • Why does your professional learning program focus on educators first?

    Have you ever been on an airplane and seen the directions to put your oxygen mask on before assisting others? That's how resilience and mental wellness work too. Educators give, give, give, and often forget about themselves. Providing educators with real-world applications for the material is also incredibly important, so we include that along with many age-appropriate brain breaks and activities.

  • We use an SEL (social emotional learning) curriculum, do we really need to add mental health?

    That question is similar to asking, "We already have a math program; do we really need science?" Like math and science, SEL and mental health programming are different things that have some overlap. Mental health literacy includes four core components: Understanding how to foster and maintain positive mental health, understanding mental health disorders and their treatments, reducing stigma, and understanding how to seek help effectively.

  • Our organization is overwhelmed, should we really add more to everyone's plate?

    We provide personal and professional strategies that can be helpful with that issue, but ultimately, this is up to you to decide.