Our vision is a world where technology is built that works for all by ensuring a focus not on what we build but on who we are building for.

Our mission is to redefine computer science education, research, and technology to center the needs, problems, and aspirations of people, communities, and society.

• Cross-disciplinary: we invite expertise from diverse fields to shape a more comprehensive approach
• Engaged: we actively collaborate with communities, policymakers, and individuals
• Grounded: we strive for tangible, implementable solutions
• Holistic: we recognize technology not as isolated code, but as socio-technical systems
• Inclusive: we intentionally bring underrepresented voices, needs, and aspirations to the forefront
• People-centric: we focus on research and tools that prioritize human well-being, equity, and safety

1. Change perspectives on building technology by training socially aware computer scientists who can anticipate the impacts of technology on people once deployed
2. Develop methods for technology design that goes beyond speed and scale, that actively seeks to promote human well-being and flourishment, while protecting our rights, opportunities for advancement, and access to vital services
3. Connect with stakeholders in the community and in civil society at large to amplify their concerns and identify solutions

• Responsibility: shift the foundations of computer science (CS) education to incorporate a focus on impacts to people and society
• Re-imagine: computing research to be based on society’s needs
• Redesign: by engaging with the people most impacted by technology policies, software, and applications

Funding Support for the CNTR

The CNTR is supported by funds from Brown University's Data Science Institute, the MacArthur Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and several anonymous donors.

Learn how to get in touch with us on our Contact page.