Turning Business Resources Into Social Impact

Pam Hacker shares how companies can use their brands, expertise and employees for good at a Center for Social Value Creation Lunch and Learn on October 19.

The Center for Social Value Creation at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business welcomed social impact leader Pam Hacker for a Lunch and Learn session titled “Using Your Company’s Resources for Good.” The discussion explored how businesses can use their brands, expertise, employees and resources to create social impact beyond traditional corporate giving.

Drawing on her experience leading social impact initiatives at Sesame Street, HBO, Warner Bros. Discovery and Kyndryl, Hacker shared insights into how organizations can integrate social responsibility into their business strategies. She emphasized that social impact should be embedded in a company’s culture, operations and long-term goals rather than treated as a separate initiative.

Throughout the session, Hacker highlighted the importance of using a company’s existing assets to drive positive change. Beyond financial contributions, businesses can use their brand recognition, trusted platforms, storytelling capabilities and employee expertise to support communities and address societal challenges. She explained how these resources can create meaningful connections with stakeholders while strengthening a company’s reputation and relationships.

Hacker also discussed the business value of social impact, emphasizing how purpose-driven initiatives can improve employee engagement, strengthen customer relationships and support long-term growth. By aligning social responsibility with business objectives, organizations can create shared value for their stakeholders and the communities they serve, she said.

For students interested in pursuing careers in social impact, Hacker encouraged gaining hands-on experience through volunteering, campus leadership and internships in corporate social responsibility or community engagement. She also emphasized the importance of developing transferable skills in storytelling, data analysis and project management, encouraging students to “practice your why for any job.”

The session reflected the Center for Social Value Creation’s commitment to preparing future business leaders to create positive social and environmental impact. By connecting students with experienced professionals such as Hacker, the center demonstrates how businesses can use their resources, influence and expertise to support communities.