Dorka Keehn
Founder & Principal, Keehn On Art
📍SF, CA
Pledge 1% is celebrating its 10th Anniversary this year. What can companies do (or do more of) to have a positive social impact in the next 10 years?
Over the next decade, companies have a tremendous opportunity—and responsibility—to deepen their commitment to social impact. Beyond financial contributions, they can embed equity, sustainability, and community engagement into their core business strategies. This means creating inclusive workplaces, supporting diverse talent pipelines, investing in local economies, and ensuring that their products and services contribute to the greater good. Companies should also think beyond philanthropy and consider structural changes—such as ethical sourcing, responsible AI development, and regenerative business models—that align long-term success with positive social outcomes.
What’s the legacy you hope to leave for future generations?
I hope my legacy is one of empowerment—whether through my work in the arts, cultural policy, or political leadership. Co-founding Emerge America to train Democratic women to run for office and Ignite National to inspire young women’s civic engagement was about building long-term pathways for women to lead at every level of government. I want future generations to inherit a world where women’s leadership is not the exception but the norm, where the creative economy is fully valued, and where civic engagement is seen as essential to shaping a more just and vibrant society.
If you could choose one word to define your leadership style, what would it be and why?
Strategic. I believe in seeing the big picture while executing on the details. My leadership is about connecting dots—between people, policies, and possibilities—to create sustainable impact. Whether it’s developing a cultural strategy for a city, shaping arts policy, or mentoring emerging leaders, I focus on long-term solutions that create systemic change rather than one-off interventions.
If you could give one piece of advice to the next generation of women leaders, what would it be?
Own your power. Women often wait until they feel 100% ready before stepping up, but the truth is, no one has all the answers. Take risks, speak with confidence, and surround yourself with people who you can learn from and who share your vision. And don’t just aim to sit at the table—redesign the table to be more inclusive for those who come after you.
Take risks, speak with confidence, and surround yourself with people who you can learn from and who share your vision.
Looking ahead, what are you most excited about—whether in your professional journey or personal life?
Professionally, I’m excited about shaping San Francisco’s first comprehensive cultural strategy and ensuring that the creative economy is a cornerstone of the city’s recovery and future growth. Personally, I’m always energized by working with artists who are stepping into the public realm for the first time, helping them translate their vision into lasting works that shape our shared spaces. Seeing their impact—and knowing that art can transform communities and people—is what keeps me inspired.
