Robert "Skip" Backus is the CEO Emeritus of Omega Institute, the United States' premier holistic learning center, offering innovative educational experiences that provide an integrated approach to personal and social change. For more than 18 years as CEO, he provided pivotal leadership to diversify and expand Omega's offerings — nearly doubling educational programming and staff.  He played a significant role in creating programs to support veterans, nonprofits, women leaders, and to bring yoga and mindfulness to underrepresented populations.  But perhaps his most visionary leadership is on behalf of the environment.  He is the founder of the award-winning Omega Center for Sustainable Living (OCSL) and has recently launched the Omega Climate Initiative to advance existing and emerging solutions both at Omega and through partnerships around the world.  He continues to support Omega's leadership including overseeing campus operations and the work of the OCSL.