Creating space to navigate change with clarity and intention.
Space to pause. Courage to move.
Mission
The mission of True North Rising is to support individuals, organizations, and communities navigating meaningful transition with clarity, steadiness, and purpose.
Through leadership advising, experiential learning, and retreat-based experiences, we help people realign their work and lives in ways that are sustainable, values-driven, and deeply human.
Vision
We envision a world where:
leaders are supported through change rather than isolated by it
learning honors the whole person, not just performance
young people grow with confidence, agency, and a sense of direction
transitions are treated as opportunities for reflection and renewal—not just pressure to move faster
True North Rising is grounded in the belief that lasting change begins with alignment—internally and collectively.
Values
Clarity over urgency
We value thoughtful discernment over reactive decision-making.
Grounded leadership
Leadership is most effective when it is steady, reflective, and humane.
Whole-person learning
Growth happens when intellect, experience, and reflection are held together.
Integrity and trust
We prioritize honest conversation, clear boundaries, and mutual respect.
Connection to place and purpose
Nature, context, and lived experience matter—and are essential teachers.
Leadership for Times of Transition - About the Founder
True North Rising was founded by Krista Gauthier, an education and nonprofit leader with decades of experience guiding organizations, programs, and people through growth and change.
Krista’s work sits at the intersection of leadership, learning, and lived experience. She has led national initiatives, built and scaled mission-driven programs, partnered across sectors, and supported leaders navigating complexity, burnout, and realignment.
Her approach blends strategic insight with deep listening—helping individuals and organizations clarify direction while staying grounded in their values. Increasingly, her work incorporates experiential and nature-based practices, including mindfulness hiking and retreat facilitation, alongside learning design and leadership advising.
Krista is especially drawn to work that supports:
leaders in transition or reinvention
organizations aligning strategy with mission and culture
youth and emerging leaders building confidence and direction
communities seeking learning experiences that honor the whole person