Common Sense Media Receives $1 Million Gift to Establish Fellowship Honoring the Legacy of Board Member Harvey J. Anderson II

SAN FRANCISCO, Oct. 15, 2025—Common Sense Media today received a $1 million gift from Denelle Dixon, wife of beloved board member Harvey J. Anderson II, and Denelle and Harvey's sons, Luke, Dylan, Trevor, Cole, and Jax, to establish a fellowship honoring the late Harvey J. Anderson II. The Harvey Anderson Fellowship will provide professional opportunities at Common Sense Media specifically for first-generation college graduates.

Reflecting on Anderson's own journey, the Harvey Anderson Fellowship will initially fund a cohort of fellows on Common Sense Media's advanced technology programs team, which works at the forefront to develop AI literacy programs, create responsible technology and AI policies, and address emerging digital pain points, including privacy and equity, for families and educators. The fellowship embodies Anderson's dedication to empowering underrepresented communities through mentorship and equitable access to technology and education.

"Harvey was my husband, best friend, co-parent, and the most extraordinary person I've ever known," Dixon said. "He had this incredible ability to bring out the best in everyone around him. This fellowship is our family's way of ensuring that Harvey's legacy lives on—empowering first-generation students to pursue the opportunities he believed everyone deserves. We're honored to create this in his name so he can continue to be a guiding light for our family and for all the lives he'll touch through these students."

Anderson earned his bachelor's degree in engineering from Marquette University through the university's support program for first-generation and lower-income students. He gave back to his alma mater throughout his life and eventually joined its board of trustees. After graduating from Marquette, he earned his law degree from the University of San Francisco and went on to have a distinguished career in Silicon Valley, where he served as a trusted legal counsel for companies including AVG, Mozilla, and Hewlett-Packard.

A father of five, Anderson was devoted to helping kids thrive in the digital world. That passion led him to join Common Sense Media's board of directors, where he served for more than a decade. As a board member, he helped guide Common Sense Media through significant strategic growth and utilized his experience and professional connections to strengthen the organization's influence in Silicon Valley.

"Harvey was one of the most insightful and generous people I've ever worked with, and I was fortunate to call him a friend," said Common Sense Media Founder and CEO James P. Steyer. "He had an unshakable faith in people—especially those just starting their careers. Denelle's gift ensures that Harvey's spirit of generosity will continue to open doors for first-generation graduates, giving them the same opportunities in tech that he championed throughout his life."

First-generation college graduates bring fresh perspectives and an unmatched drive to create meaningful change, yet they frequently face barriers to career-defining opportunities. The Harvey Anderson Fellowship eliminates these barriers, connecting exceptional talent with the transformative career pathways that Common Sense Media provides.

About Common Sense Media

Common Sense Media is dedicated to improving the lives of kids and families by providing the trustworthy information, education, and independent voice they need to thrive. Our ratings, research, and resources reach more than 150 million users worldwide, over 1.4 million educators, and more than 100,000 schools worldwide every year. Learn more at commonsense.org.