Joy is the method
We are the movement
Dr. Lynnette Adams
A generation doesn’t just need more achievement. They need belonging, purpose, and the belief that who they are matters.
We believe joy is not just a feeling; it's a practice, a science, and a radical act of resistance and renewal.
Our Mission.
The Joy Lab Inc. develops the next generation of joy-informed leaders by equipping young people with the tools to build confidence, resilience, connection, and purpose so they can lead themselves, their communities, and the world around them.
Our Vision.
A world where the next generation leads with joy, creating more compassionate, connected, and resilient communities.
Who We Serve.
We serve emerging leaders ages 14–30 through transformative programs and experiences that cultivate identity, belonging, resilience, purpose, and joy-informed leadership.
A Soul Profit Organization
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Dr. Lynnette Adams
Founder & Executive Director
About
Dr. Lynnette Adams, PhD, is a behavioral and leadership scientist, founder and executive director of The Joy Lab Inc., and creator of The Formula for Joy™, a research-informed leadership framework that demonstrates how joy can strengthen leadership, resilience, and belonging. With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership, higher education, philanthropy, and community engagement, she designs innovative programs that help individuals and organizations lead with purpose while creating environments where people feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
A graduate of Pepperdine University with a doctorate in Global Leadership and Change, Dr. Adams' research explores how joy-informed practices can transform leadership, foster resilience, and cultivate belonging in individuals, organizations, and communities. She believes every young person has the capacity to lead and that storytelling is one of the most powerful tools for developing confidence, connection, and the next generation of community leaders. Known as The Joy Architect™, she bridges research and practice through speaking, teaching, consulting, and program design, helping leaders build cultures where people can flourish and meaningful change can take root.
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Gary Jones
Chief Financial Officer
About
MSG Gary Vincent Jones is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at The Joy Lab Inc., where he leads day-to-day operations, builds systems, and ensures programs are delivered with excellence, care, and equity. He is currently serving in the United States Army as a Master Sergeant and brings more than 20 years of experience in logistics, operations, and people-centered leadership into the organization.
Gary has completed advanced Army training, including the Master Leader Course, Battle Staff, and Training Management, and holds certifications in contracting, sexual assault response, suicide prevention, resilience, and budget/finance—reflecting his commitment to safety and human-first leadership.
At The Joy Lab Inc., he oversees operations, finance and HR, and makes sure youth, leadership, and community experiences are resourced, organized, and joy-informed. He chose to serve with The Joy Lab because he believes in its vision to create healing, joyful, and equitable spaces.
His mission is simple: build an organization where joy and operational excellence work together so people can thrive.
Our Board.
Where Joy Leads. Where Leaders Rise. Where Everyone Belongs.
“Before young people can lead the world, they must believe they belong in it.”
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