History

Strozzi Institute was founded by Richard Strozzi-Heckler, Ph.D. and his wife, Ariana Strozzi-Heckler. The inspiration for this innovative place of learning began in the mid-1960s. When Richard was earning his Ph.D. in psychology in Washington state, he became intrigued by the psychology of winning – a subject already part of his own experience. In 1967, Richard took first place in the 100-meter dash and 1600-meter relay in the Pre-Olympic Meet and Central American Games in Mexico City.

As his curiosity – and his skills – evolved, Richard began to work with individuals, inner-city gangs, and professional athletes on personal development and team-building. During this period, Richard was also developing his own proficiency in the martial art of Aikido. It wasn't long before he began to evolve the concept of somatics – the unity of language, action, and meaning. Somatics is based on the idea that the mind and the body are inextricably linked: to develop one, you must cultivate the other.

Today, Strozzi Institute is a year-round destination for individuals and business leaders from throughout the United States who come to hone their leadership skills.

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