ESD Welcomes Joshua Coombes, Founder of "Do Something for Nothing," for Spring Dedman Lecture Series
April 23, 2026
Juniors gathered in the Bray Theater this week for the spring installment of the Dedman Lecture Series, welcoming London-based hairstylist and #DoSomethingForNothing founder Joshua Coombes.
The Robert H. Dedman Lecture Series, endowed in 2002 by the Dedman Foundation through the Communities Foundation of Texas, reflects ESD’s commitment to developing thoughtful, purpose-driven leaders. Robert Dedman—grandfather of alumni Jonathan Dietz ’03, Christina Dietz ’09, and Jeffrey Dietz ’14—served as the inaugural speaker, and the series continues to honor his legacy. Focused on leadership and service, the program brings speakers to campus twice each year, offering students firsthand insight into a range of experiences and perspectives while exploring how individuals find meaning and direction in their work and lives. Through these experiences, ESD students engage directly with changemakers, exploring the real-world application of courage, vision, and purpose.
Coombes’ message aligned seamlessly with that mission. He shared how a simple moment, offering a haircut to someone experiencing homelessness, shifted his perspective and led him to continue that work outside of his profession. What began as a personal practice grew into Do Something For Nothing, a movement encouraging people to use their own skills and time to connect with others in meaningful ways.
Speaking to the junior class, Coombes shared stories from his work on the streets of cities around the world—moments grounded not just in service, but in conversation, dignity, and human connection. Through each encounter, he emphasized the importance of seeing beyond appearances and recognizing the individuality and worth of every person.
At ESD, where students are consistently encouraged to lead lives of intellectual discovery, integrity, and purpose, Coombes’ perspective offered a tangible framework for action. His message resonated in its clarity: meaningful impact does not require grand gestures. Instead, it begins with awareness, empathy, and the willingness to engage.
As students left the theater, they carried forward a deeper understanding of what it means to lead: one shaped not only by ambition, but by empathy, awareness, and a willingness to act in ways both big and small.
