Danielle Kristine Toussaint

Hello there! I’m founder of Purple Haus and our nonprofit partner venture, Dream Purple Foundation. I’m also author of the book, Dare to Think Purple, which shares leadership lessons from mission-driven executives and social entrepreneurs.

It’s my personal mission to improve the human condition one story at a time. Over my 20+ year career, I’ve partnered with leaders at global organizations, national philanthropies, and local nonprofits to help unlock over $250 million for social impact through narrative change and strategic communications.

I’m the author of Dare to Think Purple, which shares leadership insights and inspiring stories from mission-driven executives and entrepreneurs. My forthcoming book, Say What You Mean, explores how leaders build capacity, credibility, and trust through authentic communication.

Previously, I served as Chief External Affairs Officer at NewSchools Venture Fund and as Senior Advisor for Narrative Strategy and Executive Communications for Ascend at the Aspen Institute. I’m also an angel investor and advisor to women and new majority led startups focused on culture, sustainability, and technology. My writing and ghostwriting have appeared in Huffington Post, Forbes.com, Business Insider, and on the TEDx stage.

Through Dream Purple Foundation, I’m supporting first movers shaping a future of education, work, and technology where AI expands human potential and amplifies human creativity.

I hold a B.A. in Political Science and African American Studies from Yale University and an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education.