Heart Forward Science

Bringing Imagination, Intuition, and Intellect Together in Science

Find greater fulfillment and impact through a more holistic approach

You want to have greater impact, but structures feel limiting or unclear

Too often, scientists, educators, and leaders feel trapped by rigid and/or changing academic norms that limit creativity, collaboration, and the ability to tackle complex challenges holistically. Traditional models focus on intellect alone—leaving out the power of imagination, intuition, and human connection.

What if science could be more expansive, inclusive, and impactful?

At Heart Forward Science, we help forward-thinking professionals integrate a holistic, values-driven approach to research, leadership, and education—without sacrificing academic rigor.

About Heart Forward Science

Let’s open our minds and our hearts to the possibilities

Science with Heart

Heart Forward Science is about doing science differently—more fully, more authentically, and more impactfully. It’s built on a simple but powerful idea: when we bring our imagination, intuition, and intellect into the work of science, we open up new possibilities—not just for better results, but for deeper meaning and connection.

Leading with Purpose

Founded by Valerie Luzadis, Heart Forward Science helps scientists, educators, and leaders move beyond rigid norms and into a more holistic, values-driven approach. It’s not about abandoning scientific rigor—it’s about expanding how we think, collaborate, and create solutions that truly serve both people and the planet.

About Dr. Valerie Luzadis

I am a scientist, educator, and advocate for transforming the way we approach research and leadership. With decades of experience in higher education, interdisciplinary research, and scientific policy, I’ve helped institutions and professionals break free from rigid academic norms to embrace a more values-driven, imaginative, and holistic approach to science.

A former president of the U.S. Society for Ecological Economics, I’ve led change at the intersection of science, leadership, and sustainability. I founded Heart Forward Science to help organizations and individuals integrate intuition, imagination, and intellect—ensuring that science is not just about knowledge, but about impact, connection, and meaningful progress.

Academic Leader

Tenured professor and former Interim Provost and Executive Vice President at SUNY ESF, with over a decade in high-level academic leadership roles.

Global Science Advocate

Board member and former Chair of the Global Council for Science and the Environment, advancing science-informed policy worldwide.

Community & Culture Leader

Board member of the Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation and the Syracuse Chorale, championing social justice and the arts.

How Valerie can help

Consulting

One-on-one guidance for your team or yourself

Through personalized consulting, Valerie guides individuals, institutions, and organizations in integrating imagination, intuition, and intellect into scientific and educational practices. Whether you’re seeking to enhance collaboration, navigate institutional challenges, or develop innovative approaches to research and leadership, Valerie provides the insight and support needed to make lasting change.

Topics covered

Public Speaking

Thought-provoking talks for your audience

Inspire your colleagues to think beyond the usual boundaries of science. Valerie Luzadis delivers engaging talks and workshops that challenge rigid norms and explore the power of imagination, intuition, and intellect in research and leadership. Whether speaking to scientists, educators, or changemakers, she sparks fresh ideas, fosters collaboration, and helps people see new possibilities in their work.

Topics covered

Schedule a free consultation

Testimonials

“I met Valerie years ago as a young PhD student navigating a challenging, masculine, and often hostile academic environment. She became a close mentor and friend, encouraging me to step into leadership, do things differently, see interconnections, and bring my whole self in service. Nearly twenty years later, we continue to collaborate, and I often draw on what I’ve learned from Valerie in my day-to-day work as an executive leader—using intuition to ‘read the room,’ make tough decisions, connect more deeply, and lead with compassion and clarity.”

Anna Stewart Ibarra

“Dr. Luzadis is the best coach and mentor for anyone who struggles with bringing together their imagination, experience and identity in their work. Her brilliance is boundless, and as a mentor she is as nurturing and caring as she is logical and assertive. Her approach promotes self-discovery and self-actualization, allowing me to engage as my full self while fostering self-accountability. She helped me experience my work with eagerness and joy rather than stress. Her hands-off, heart-and-mind-on approach and ability to connect complex ideas in real time is a highlight of my career. I wholeheartedly recommend her to anyone with bold ideas unsure where to start.”

Engaging with Heart: Environmental Research for a Better Future

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November 2, 2021

Gathering of the Energies Global Climate Meditation

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October 31, 2021

Gathering of the Energies Global Climate Meditation

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