VIA Institute on Character: Comprehensive Company Profile
Background
The VIA Institute on Character, headquartered in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a global non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the science and practice of character strengths. Established in 1999, VIA's mission is to empower individuals worldwide by helping them discover and apply their unique character strengths to enhance well-being, relationships, and performance. The organization is renowned for its VIA Survey, a psychometrically validated assessment available in 46 languages, which has been taken by nearly 35 million individuals across 195 countries. This survey is recognized as the most frequently taken and popular peer-reviewed scientific test of personality or strengths globally.
Key Strategic Focus
VIA's strategic focus centers on promoting the understanding and application of character strengths to foster personal and organizational growth. The organization specializes in developing and disseminating character strength assessments and resources, supporting researchers, and creating practical tools for professionals such as therapists, educators, and organizational leaders. A significant initiative is the "Workplaces at Their Best" (WATB) program, launched in November 2024, designed to enhance employee engagement and cultivate strengths-based organizational cultures. This program leverages the latest research in positive psychology to empower organizations in building cultures of mutual support and meaning.
Financials and Funding
As a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, VIA Institute on Character generates revenue through program services, grants, and contributions. In the fiscal year ending December 2023, the organization reported total revenues of $1,878,345 and total expenses of $2,239,407. Program services accounted for $1,580,357 of the revenue, with additional income from grants, contributions, and investment returns. Notably, VIA received a $75,000 grant from the Kessler Foundation to support its scientific initiatives.
Technological Platform and Innovation
VIA's cornerstone is the VIA Survey, a scientifically validated tool that assesses individual character strengths. This survey is available in 46 languages and has been taken by nearly 35 million people worldwide. The organization collaborates with partners like Asset Health to integrate character strengths into comprehensive wellness programs, pioneering a strengths-based approach to employee well-being. This collaboration focuses on leveraging individuals' innate strengths to promote health and wellness behaviors.
Leadership Team
- Dr. Jeffrey Levy: Chief Executive Officer, overseeing the organization's strategic direction and operations.
- Dr. Ryan Niemiec: Chief Science & Education Officer, leading scientific research and educational initiatives.
- Dr. Jillian Coppley: President and Chief Programs and Services Officer, responsible for program development and service delivery.
- Dr. Neal Mayerson: Chairman and Founder, providing visionary leadership and guidance.
These leaders bring extensive experience in psychology, education, and organizational development, contributing significantly to VIA's mission and growth.
Leadership Changes
In July 2023, VIA Institute on Character merged with Mayerson Academy, a Cincinnati-based non-profit organization. Post-merger, Dr. Neal Mayerson continued as Chairman of the Board of Directors, and Dr. Jeffrey Levy remained in his role as CEO, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategic direction.
Competitor Profile
Market Insights and Dynamics
The character strengths and positive psychology sector has experienced significant growth, with increasing recognition of the importance of personal development and well-being in various settings, including workplaces and educational institutions. The demand for scientifically validated assessments and interventions that promote individual strengths and resilience continues to rise.
Competitor Analysis
Key competitors in this space include organizations like Hogan Assessments, Korn Ferry, Cappfinity, and Thomas International. These companies offer various personality and strengths assessments, leadership development programs, and talent management solutions. While they provide similar services, VIA's focus on character strengths and its non-profit status distinguish it within the industry.
Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships
VIA has established significant partnerships to advance its mission:
- Asset Health: Collaborated to integrate character strengths into comprehensive wellness programs, promoting a strengths-based approach to employee well-being.
- Happify: Teamed up to provide interactive, science-based pathways for individuals to learn about and apply their character strengths for greater happiness.
- SMCOV: Partnered to create transformative workshops and reports designed to improve employee engagement and satisfaction through character strengths.
Operational Insights
VIA's strategic initiatives, such as the WATB program and collaborations with organizations like Asset Health, position it as a leader in applying character strengths to enhance individual and organizational well-being. Its non-profit status and commitment to providing free, scientifically validated assessments contribute to its unique standing in the market.
Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions
Looking ahead, VIA aims to expand its reach by developing new assessments and resources, translating existing tools into additional languages, and forging new partnerships to promote the application of character strengths globally. The organization is committed to advancing research in positive psychology and character strengths, ensuring its offerings remain at the forefront of scientific and practical developments.
Contact Information
- Website: www.viacharacter.org
- Social Media:
- Facebook: VIA Institute on Character Facebook
- Twitter: VIA Institute on Character Twitter
- YouTube: VIA Institute on Character YouTube
- Pinterest: VIA Institute on Character Pinterest
This comprehensive profile provides an in-depth look at the VIA Institute on Character, highlighting its mission, strategic focus, financials, leadership, competitive landscape, partnerships, and future directions.
