VALUES & TEAM
Our Values
Compassion
We value strong interpersonal relationships on our team, and we prioritize making time to build those relationships. We emphasize respect, kindness, and generosity in individual and team interactions. We value giving and receiving feedback, including encouraging constructive critiques.
Progressive Workplace
We reflect our constituencies and the world we want to create by continuously striving to be an anti-racist, feminist, inclusive, and responsive workplace with policies and practices that are intentionally supportive of BIPOC staff and LGBTQIA+ staff so that everyone on our team can thrive. As a progressive workplace, we are also invested in ensuring that government is responsive to historically marginalized communities through social change, such as criminal justice reform, equitable educational opportunities, abortion access, and climate justice.
Collaborative
We value collaborative approaches within our team and with our partners. We center our partners as much as possible, sharing credit and sharing resources. We avoid scarcity mindsets and encourage distributed leadership.
Solutions-oriented
We are proactive and solutions-oriented in the face of challenges, and we face conflict directly. While we have rigorous standards for experimentation and expect excellence (but not perfection) from one another in our work, we do not focus on assigning blame in evaluating our processes and programs.
Sustainable
We prioritize financial sustainability for our work to ensure that our organization can grow and thrive long-term. We strive to develop movement leaders by offering transformative professional growth opportunities and pay/benefits that are competitive in the nonprofit sector.
Advancing
racial equity
We are committed to the continuous work of being and becoming an anti-racist organization and dismantling white supremacy.
We view our racial equity commitment through an intersectional lens that includes LGBTQIA+ equality, class, ability, and other frameworks that help us understand empowerment and dismantle oppression. Anti-racism is mission-critical for Accelerate Change because racial equity is core to who we are as an organization and our progressive values. Additionally, anti-racism is mission-critical for us because we believe our commitment to BIPOC power building must also be reflected internally in our organizational culture and programs.
How we Work
We deeply value having strong
interpersonal relationships on our team.
We are a national, fully remote team based across the US that gathers in person 2-3 times per year (with strict COVID safety protocols in place). We have been operating this way for a decade because we value the flexibility that remote work brings for managing work and life. We prioritize relationship-building through asynchronous remote tools and channels, regular synchronous connection time one-on-one with colleagues and as a full team, and through in-person team gatherings.
Meet the Team
Alina (Lina) Amkhavong
People Operations Manager
Alison Bautista
Product Experimentation Manager
Alondra (Alo) Ramos
Operations Associate
Amber Burnham
Head of Influencer Engagement and Experimentation
Ariel Robert
Finance Invoicing Associate
Bia Myanganbayar
Talent Associate
Bisrat Bayou
Sr. Operations Manager
Brooke Galberth
Development Manager
Cecilia M.
Director of Development
Celina M.
Project Manager, Executive Office
Chelsea Parkes
People and Culture Manager
Clyde Dean
Paralegal
Darrell Scott
Vice President of Media Investments & Acquisitions
Eboni Lee
Head of Data Analytics
Frank Morris Lopez
Director of the Executive Office
Habibah Haugstad
Partner Integration Manager
Jaya Todai
Director of Program Operations
Jeff Ohaju
Development Associate
Jenn Johnson
Vice President of Product and Technology
Jenny Velez
Development Manager
Kim Hohman
Chief Program Officer
Kristina Morgado
Talent Innovation Manager
LaTondria Carter
Director of People Operations
Lucien Auguar
Head of Technology
Maho Yamaguchi
Finance Manager
Maria Helena Oliveira
Director of Content Experimentation
Maribel (Mari) Zagal
Talent Acquisition Manager
Micah Evangelista
Content Design Manager
Mila Souffrant
Product Operations Associate
Richie Kamtchoum
Content Production Manager
Rowan Rosenthal
Chatbot Experimentation Manager
Ryan Patterson
Accounting Associate
Safwan Ibrahim
Finance Associate
Sahil Kotak
Vice President of Digital Strategy
Shirley Alfaro
Vice President of Finance and Operations
Sterling Faust
Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition
Taura V. Livingston
Director of Operations
Jeff Ohaju
He/Him/His
College Station, Texas
Development Associate
I am a child of Nigerian immigrants committed to creating a world where adequate healthcare is accessible to everyone and not just some.
I also come from a larger family, being the 5th child of 6 children. I love to hang out with family and friends when time allows. I also enjoy trying out new foods and exploring local restaurants whenever possible
As a Development Associate, Jeff will assist in the day to day operations of our fundraising processes and systems.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jeff worked as a development coordinator at a non-profit centered around providing financial assistance and emotional support to adults going through cancer.
LaTondria Carter
She/Her/Hers
Atlanta, Georgia
Director of People Operations
I am an African-American woman and Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCU) graduate who is the descendant of two 1st generation HBCU graduates. As a result education is very important to me and I am a lifelong learner. I enjoy traveling, exploring new restaurants, and a good concert! One of my latest passion projects is completing a certificate program in floral design.
As Director of People Operations , LaTondria will lead the People Operations Department and create strategies to make People Operations more effective, efficient, and inclusive.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, LaTondria held a variety of progressively responsible HR roles over the past 16 years in several industries with mission driven work being the most meaningful to her. LaTondria holds a B.S. in Biology, Management, and a MBA in Human Resources Management. She holds a Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification and brings a wealth of knowledge to the People Operations team.
Eva Logan
She/They
New York, New York
Impact Campaigns Associate
I love baking, reading (all types of books), music, puzzles, strategy games, and cats!
As an Impact Campaigns Associate, Eva will help support our issues-based digital campaigns across our ecosystem of partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Eva worked in tech, and studied Mathematics & Black Studies at Swarthmore College. Her studies focused on Black feminism, and she also did research on the relationship between online spaces & identity formation.
Rida Ali
She/Her
DC Metropolitan Area
Impact Campaigns Associate
I’m an enthusiastic digital storyteller with a passion to learn more about history, culture, and global issues.
I love traveling, film photography, creating fun content, and meeting new people! In my spare time, you can probably find me reading, creating content, traveling to a new city, or drinking way too much matcha. I value new adventures and spontaneous plans.
I love Asian food, and some of my favorites are momos (nepali dumplings) and chinese hot pot.
As an Impact Campaigns Associate, Rida will help support our issues-based digital campaigns across our ecosystem of partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Rida received her undergraduate degree from NYU and lived in New York City for four years, then worked at Buzzfeed as a content strategist. After that, Rida pursued and finished her masters in Journalism and South Asian studies in London.
Safwan Ibrahim
He/Him/His
Southern California
Finance Associate
I am a Palestinian Muslim organizer with a passion for literature and cooking. In my spare time, I enjoy writing poetry and short stories, developing and perfecting recipes, and visiting local independent bookstores to add to my expanding personal library.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Safwan worked with marginalized and underrepresented communities seeking support in various forms, including mental health services, refugee youth services, and JDEI efforts in the workplace. In whatever capacity, Safwan strives for a world where all people achieve liberation.
Ryan Patterson
He/Him/His
Olympia, Washington
Accounting Associate
I am a queer person of color raised by a single mother. I have always put others first, and I work in nonprofit accounting to further my commitment to bettering the lives of others. I enjoy drawing, playing video games, watching cult classic movies, cooking, and baking in my free time. I love to cook and have a soft spot for family recipes, such as Filipino Adobo, which I often make.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Ryan worked with a variety of employers to learn and hone general accounting skills such as payroll, general journal entries, auditing, and budgeting and forecasting. His latest employer was Pizza Klatch, a local nonprofit in Thurston County, which was a tremendous place for professional and personal growth. Within Pizza Klatch, Ryan’s passion for working in the nonprofit sector blossomed. Ryan later graduated from Saint Martin’s University with a Master’s of Accountancy and then began looking for opportunities that share his vision for social impact.
Ariel Robert
she/her
Philadelphia, PA
Finance Invoicing Associate
I am a lover of community and connection. Beyond the needs to show accountability and to support equity across identities, I believe we are nothing without the mutual support of the village.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Ariel spent time in administrative, finance, and accounting roles for retail and manufacturing companies. She contributed through financial analysis, project management, and by implementing operations which focused on an inclusive experience for BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ employees.
Shirley Alfaro
she/her/ella
Chicago, IL
Vice President of Finance and Operations
I find passion in the arts, storytelling, movement building and unsung heroes.
As the Vice President of Finance & Operations, Shirley guides and supports the financial and operational efficiency across the organization and networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Shirley served as the Managing Director at Exposure Labs, a film and social impact company. In this role, she implemented administrative structures and fostered a culture centered around people and values.
A Chicago native, Shirley is rooted in movement building, art, media, and justice –prioritizing building community and transformational change at all levels. She believes art is a right, not a privilege, and envisions a future where BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, women, people with disabilities, immigrants, and other marginalized communities have the freedom to share their stories and pursue their dreams.
Maho Yamaguchi
she/her/hers
Boston, MA
Finance Manager
I am a first-generation American-born child of immigrants from Japan and the child of a business owner (restaurant). I learned at a young age the importance of hard work, persistence, and determination. I moved across the country with my two pups to take a risk with the support of my family. Best decision EVER! Then, I adopted a third pup, and I’m living my current best life.
As Finance Manager, Maho manages our finance processes and systems.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, all of my work history was in the hospitality industry. I’ve worked from dishwasher to server to line cook to GM and bookkeeper. This is my first non-profit-related work, and I am so excited to translate my hospitality experience into non-profit work and learn so many new things!
Alina (Lina) Amkhavong
she/her/hers
Oakland, CA
People Operations Manager
As a daughter of refugees with roots from Pakse, Laos, I’m committed to building equitable spaces that foster storytelling and community care.
I love exploring new coffee shops, curating themed R&B playlist, and learning about cultures through traveling. I’m also passionate about improving my data analytics skills, with the goal of using data as a tool to craft stories and inspire.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Lina worked in roles spanning across project management, people operations, and talent development in nonprofits and higher education. She has experience working with marginalized communities and BIPOC youth, actively building programs and advocating for equitable opportunities, access to resources, and capacity-building efforts in the Seattle Metropolitan area and Bay Area.
Lina is a first-generation college graduate with an interdisciplinary BA in Non-Governmental Organizations and Social Change (sponsored by the Sociology department) from the University of Southern California.
Eboni Lee
she/her/ella
Washington DC Metro Area
Head of Data Analytics
I love data, but I’m also acutely aware of how it has been used to harm BIPOC and under-resourced communities. With that in mind, I do this work to make data more accessible and transparent, and to make people feel seen. It’s not just about numbers, it’s about the stories behind them.
As Head of Data Analytics, Eboni leads our Data Analytics Department.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Eboni helped complete research and provided data analytics support to non-profits in different sectors, with her most recent role having her lead data equity work at one of the leading early childhood development non-profits in the nation. She was a Posse Scholar who attended Pepperdine University and received a BA in Psychology and a Certificate in Conflict Management. She then moved to London to pursue a Master’s of Science in Clinical, Social, and Cognitive Neuroscience from City, University of London. She has also successfully completed a Data Science certificate program.
Alondra (Alo) Ramos
she/her/hers
Houston Area, TX
Operations Associate
I love to stay active and participate in a lot of recreational sport clubs, mainly tennis and volleyball.
As an Operations Associate, Alo supports our finance and operations processes and projects.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Alondra held roles in business operations in publishing and biotechnology startups.
Rowan Rosenthal
they/them/theirs or he/him/his
Greater Boston Area, MA
Chatbot Experimentation Manager
I am motivated in my work by my experiences as a queer person and the solidarity I have experienced throughout my life from others who are a part of this work. In my spare time I flit about between a number of different hobbies, from music and art to gardening or learning to code.
As a Chatbot Experimentation Manager, Rowan builds and maintains Chatbots across digital media platforms in support of our network of partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Rowan worked for six years at a small law office specializing in criminal defense, estate planning, domestic relations, and a number of other areas.
Bisrat Bayou
He/Him
Washington, D.C.
Sr. Operations Manager
I am from two beautiful Ethiopian parents who, as refugees, sacrificed endless moments of their own just so their children could live a better life. They are my reason; I am because of them.
As Operations Manager, Bisrat manages our finance and operations processes and projects.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Bisrat worked as a Policy Aide for the Minneapolis City Council and as an Analyst for the City’s Health Department. He has served in local government at the state, county, and city levels. His passions include dismantling structural inequities among disenfranchised communities and making long-term positive impact.
Bisrat graduated from the University of St. Thomas in the Twin Cities with a B.S. in Neuroscience and Public Health.
Adna A.
she/her/hers
Minnesota
Manager, Executive Office
I love to travel, meet new people, and learn about different cultures.
As Manager of the Executive Office, Adna supports the work of Peter Murray and Lea Madry.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Adna provided administrative support to executives in the healthcare and fashion industries.
Adna graduated with a BS in Mass Communications, with an emphasis in Public Relations.
Sarah Rahman
she/her/no pref.
Portland, OR
Director of Impact Campaigns
I’m a devoted cat mom, a book lover (of the long, tedious nonfiction variety), and an aspiring powerlifter.
As Director of Impact Campaigns, Sarah oversees the development and implementation of issues-based digital campaigns across our ecosystem of partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Sarah was a community organizer and archivist working at the intersection of technology, global/domestic warfare, and punishment-based criminal and bordering systems.
Celina M.
she/her/ella
Texas
Project Manager, Executive Office
I am a first-generation Latina, originally from the Dominican Republic, committed to fostering cross-cultural understanding.
Fun for me means exploring new places, traveling, and getting to know different cultures—it truly gives me life! I’m also a total homebody, loving to binge-watch shows and documentaries, work from coffee shops, and try out new restaurants for exciting culinary experiences.
As Project Manager of the Executive Office, Celina supports the work of Peter Murray and Lea Madry.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Celina’s career primarily focused on digital marketing and project management, supporting a variety of digital agencies and organizations.
Celina holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, with a minor in Spanish Language from The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley as well as an MBA from the same university.
Brooke Galberth
she/her/hers
Philadelphia, PA
Development Manager
When not working, I enjoy the company of my beloved pets: three delightful cats named Henrietta, Poncho, and Petunia, along with an adorable dog, Mr. Pants. They bring immense joy to my life.
Nature, particularly the beach, holds a special place in my heart. Growing up surrounded by mountains and trees in Seattle, I developed a profound appreciation for the natural world. Although I now reside in Philadelphia, reconnecting with nature, be it at the beach or elsewhere, brings me a sense of peace and belonging.
Besides my love for nature, I’m passionate about traveling and exploring new places and cultures. Experiencing diverse communities expands my perspectives and embraces the interconnectedness of our global world.
As Development Manager, Brooke manages our fundraising processes and systems.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Brooke gained invaluable experience in the fundraising sector, working with non-profit organizations dedicated to conservation and environmental advocacy. Her career has been marked by a deep commitment to supporting causes she deeply cares about.
With a strong foundation in understanding the intersection of environmental issues and social change, Brooke holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies, specializing in Policy, Politics, and Justice from Seattle University. She further enhanced her skills with a Certificate in Fundraising Management from the University of Washington.
Amber Burnham
she/her/hers
Los Angeles, CA
Head of Influencer Engagement and Experimentation
I’m deeply passionate about advocating for and empowering others to embrace their true selves and share their stories. As a fellow Puerto Rican, I find inspiration in diverse communities, their traditions, and the narratives they hold. I love to travel, as traveling is a way for me to explore new identities and learn about different walks of life.
As Head of Influencer Engagement and Experimentation, Amber leads influencer experimentation and oversees relationships with our partner influencer networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Amber spent over 10 years in the fashion industry, aiming to break barriers of traditional beauty standards. During this time, she discovered her passion for Influencer Marketing while working with Savage X Fenty. Amber crafted partnerships with creators who challenged conventional norms and provided greater representation for marginalized communities. In her leadership roles, she successfully developed Influencer Marketing programs from scratch, with a clear mission of representing disabled, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and plus size communities.
As a Wisconsin native and a first-generation college student, she successfully graduated from the University of Minnesota. She is now happy to be residing in California, where she can be in closer proximity to her Puerto Rican side of the family and foster a stronger connection with her cultural roots.
Patty Busby
she/her
Washington, D.C. area
Vice President of People
As a child of immigrant parents from the Philippines, my dedication to uplifting diverse communities is at the heart of my daily work. I am a writer – hoping to publish at least one book in this lifetime – and a doula, passionate about advocating for people of color in their journey to parenthood.
As Vice President of People, Patty supports and guides the People area, which includes the following: the People Operations Department, the Talent Acquisition function, and the People Strategy and Innovation function.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Patty contributed for seven years to the operations and HR teams at Lesbians Who Tech, an organization devoted to supporting LGBTQ communities in tech and their allies. Most recently she served as the Head of Operations at MobilizeGreen, an organization placing diverse interns in National Parks to do STEM based conservation work, helping them to jumpstart their Green Careers.
Patty graduated with a B.A. in Communications from George Washington University and an M.F.A in Creative Writing from New York University.
Tracey Starkovich
she/her/hers
Chicago, IL
Event Manager
My passion – both professionally and personally – is creating equitable and accessible spaces where people gather, connect and create together, to bring about the change we need in this world. In my personal life, these spaces are focused on food access and justice, community health, liberation, and human and animal rights.
As Event Manager, Tracey plans and organizes events that build strong relationships and advance programmatic goals across our teams and networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, I spent nearly 20 years planning events, meetings, and conferences for various nonprofits, as well as managing organizational logistics and operations.
Frank Morris Lopez
he/him/his
Glendale, AZ
Director of the Executive Office
I love getting to know people and learning about the world around me. I spend a lot of time studying cultures, religion, history, and philosophy.
As Director of the Executive Office, Frank leads our Executive Office department.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Frank’s career primarily centered around news, nonprofits, community, and social advocacy work. He studied political science and international relations at Northern Arizona University and has a master’s in social justice and human rights from Arizona State. Frank has received state and national awards for his work in media.
Jenny Velez
she/her/ella
New York
Development Manager
I am a child of Puerto Rican parents, committed to making this world a more equitable, inclusive world.
In my spare time, I enjoy finding a balance between being a homebody, watching romcoms, Titanic, or documentaries, and going on adventures with my dog Sal in nature or traveling.
As Development Manager, Jenny manages our fundraising processes and systems.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jenny worked in the higher education and international education field. She implemented programs and structures for BIPOC communities, and advocated for equitable and accessible opportunities in higher education, college access programs, and increasing funds for BIPOC communities. She has experience working in grant writing, financial aid offices and with stakeholders during her time in the nonprofit and higher education sector.
Jenny is a proud first-generation college graduate with her BA in Urban Studies from Worcester State University and a Master’s Degree from Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. She is also an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and Women of Color in Fundraising and Philanthropy.
Alison Bautista
she/her
Oakland, CA
Product Experimentation Manager
You can often find me searching the garden section of a store for uprooted plants or cultivating life with my hands in the soil. To me, gardening is more than just a hobby – it regrounds me in my purpose, builds a community rooted in reciprocity, and acts as an expression of environmental justice.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Alison held various roles within the tech sector focused on environmental justice and data accessibility. Some notable projects include mapping pollinator corridors in Minneapolis and leading a site feasibility analysis for the City of Phoenix’s Cool Corridors program with NASA.
Alison earned her bachelor’s degree from Macalester College and is presently pursuing a master’s degree at Georgia Tech.
Maribel (Mari) Zagal
she/her
Chicago
Talent Acquisition Manager
I am a proud first-generation Latina from Chicago. I am deeply committed to working within the BIPOC community to create a more equitable world for all.
As Talent Acquisition Manager, Mari manages the full life cycle of recruiting and hiring across Accelerate Change.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Mari held several non-profit roles striving to create educational equity for students from under-resourced communities. She graduated from Carleton College and is a proud Posse Alum.
Rafa Veintimilla
he/him
Denver Metro Area
Director of Finance
I learned how to fight for causes in ways that fairly challenge the status quo from my father. I learned how to show up for humanity and build an intentional community from my mother. I learned the power of taking a step back and joyfully living life from my brother. I bring them with me in everything I do.
As Director of Finance, Rafa leads our Finance Department, which houses our finance and accounting functions.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Rafa worked for the Conservation Colorado family of organizations where his days were spent solving financial headaches for good and modernizing accounting technology for people. Bringing systems thinking and an intersectional lens to radical changemaking is second nature to Rafa as a sociology graduate from Barrett, the Honors College at Arizona State University. His mission is to humanize financial life for the world.
Bia Myanganbayar
she/her
Irvine, California
Talent Associate
I am a proud American-Mongolian immigrant committed to fighting for a more equitable and empathetic world. I deeply love storytelling in all forms and believe it is one of the most powerful forms of learning.
As Talent Associate, Bia supports the full life cycle of recruiting and hiring across Accelerate Change.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Bia was an Organizational Development and Recruiting Trainee at HM.Clause. Bia graduated from UC Davis with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Psychology.
Mila Souffrant
she/her
Pembroke Pines, Florida
Product Operations Associate
In my spare time, I do a lot of creative writing and host a podcast about culture clashes with one of my best friends. I think it’s important to highlight both the differences and similarities in cultures that make us unique while also uniting us and for me, writing and having discussions on those topics help me to contextualize them.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Mila held various roles in tech support and customer service.
Kristina Morgado
she/her
New York City, NY
Talent Innovation Manager
In my free time, I enjoy listening to live music, traveling, and making jewelry.
As a Talent Innovation Manager, Kristina manages innovation initiatives and special projects within the Talent Department.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Kristina acquired 10 years of experience in operations and executive assistance. Among her professional accomplishments, she assisted a start-up wellness spa by developing their operations through the creation of protocols and defining the customer experience so that they could remain consistent as they expand. She enjoys using her creative outlook to find solutions to make daily processes more simple, while maintaining their efficiency. Kristina deeply cares about all people feeling a sense of belonging, which has drawn her to transition from working in hospitality to social justice.
Lucien Auguar
he/him
California
Head of Technology
I am motivated by the inequalities that are deeply rooted in the tech industry. I want to see more diversity in all tech sectors.
I’m currently researching ways to utilize blockchain tech for an uncensored blog that communicates through a trustless wireless network.
I love spending time with my family, taking nature walks, and exploring the world through my daughter’s eyes. I also like to explore new local restaurants and enjoy the challenge of recreating my favorite dishes.
As the Head of Technology, Lucien leads our Technology Department.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Lucien was an IT Consultant and helped develop and execute companies’ business strategies and integrate new and advanced technologies. Lucien was also the Director of IT for an international cannabis startup.
Kim Hohman
she/her/hers
Colorado
Chief Program Officer
Cooking is both my love language and my stress-reliever. I recharge by tackling complicated recipes, planning menus, and making food for people I love.
As Chief Program Officer, Kim oversees our programs and directly oversees relationships with partners in the Accelerate Media Network.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Kim spent two decades in digital media, including 11 years at Nickelodeon, where she focused on digital programming and social media. Kim also has a deep start-up background, having developed digital content in the earliest stages of companies like Upworthy, WebLab, and About.com.
Kim made the transition from corporate to nonprofit work in 2017, after the state of racial justice in the U.S. ignited her desire for more purpose-driven work. She spent 2 years as a digital strategy consultant for nonprofits just prior to coming to Accelerate Change.
Darrell Scott
he/him
Little Rock, Arkansas
Vice President of Media Investments & Acquisitions
I love to find local Black-owned restaurants and build themed music playlists.
As Vice President of Media Investments & Acquisitions, Darrell oversees our investments in and acquisitions of cultural media properties, accounts, and networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Darrell was co-founder and CEO of PushBlack, the largest non-profit media platform for Black Americans. Earlier in his career, he ran racial equity trainings and served as a fellow with the Z. Smith Reynolds Foundation.
Mike Thao
he/him/his
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Product Operations Associate
I love reading comic books and fantasy novels, attending local punk rock shows, and listening to too many podcasts.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Mike studied UX design at Prime Digital Academy with a focus on inclusive and human-centered design thinking. Mike earned his bachelor’s degree in Strategic Communication from the University of Minnesota.
Chelsea Parkes
she/her/hers
Brooklyn, NY
People and Culture Manager
As a Black lesbian whose voice is often silenced or forgotten, I have a deep commitment for building a community that not only hears but acts on the voices of marginalized communities.
As People and Culture Manager, Chelsea oversees performance management processes, guides staff on professional development, and works with staff and managers to ensure that we have a workplace where our team can thrive.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Chelsea worked as the People and Culture Associate at The Trevor Project, where she designed and executed inclusive strategies, internal culture communications, and spearheaded DEI initiatives. In addition, Chelsea worked numerous years within Talent Acquisition for The Trevor Project and TEKsystems, where she was responsible for managing full-cycle sourcing, hiring, and onboarding a diverse set of the world’s top talent. Chelsea is a New York native and a college graduate with a BBA from Bryant University.
Micah Evangelista
she/her/hers
Northwest Indiana Region
Content Design Manager
As an immigrant and child of immigrants, I am committed to advocating for de-stigmatizing mental health in my culture and community.
For fun, I love to lift as a powerlifter, hike and go on weekend road trips with my partner!
As Content Design Manager, Micah supports the Content Department and oversees content design projects.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Micah was a UX Researcher / Experience Designer, designing technology to be more inclusive and human-centered. On the side, Micah was also a Creative Healing Coach for children of immigrants, advocating for mental health through healing arts.
Jay Banks
they/them
Olympia, Washington
Director of Equity Programs and People Projects
Being a Queer & Trans Afro Latine from the South, I am passionate about making spaces for marginalized people to feel hopeful and empowered in their own advocacy.
In my spare time, I love to dive into creative projects, whether that is oil painting, pixel art, dancing, or baking.
As Director of Civic Engagement, Jay leads our civic engagement programs and advises on civic engagement across our networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jay was the Executive Director of a non-profit called Pizza Klatch, focusing on providing community resources and support groups for LGBTQ+ youth in Thurston County. They have received an Ivy League certificate from the University of Pennsylvania School of Social Policy & Practice in Non-profit leadership.
Taura V. Livingston
She/Her
Albuquerque, New Mexico
Director of Operations
As a woman of color, I am determined to elevate the dignity and respect marginalized people experience in their day-to-day lives. We all deserve to be seen in our uniqueness and respected for our individuality.
As Director of Network Operations, Taura leads the Network Operations Department, which houses the operational infrastructure we use to collaborate with and support our networks of partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Taura enjoyed a long career working in nonprofit organizations providing leadership for mission-related programs and overall operations. Taura recently started providing consulting services to small and medium nonprofit organizations focused on humanitarian initiatives to help streamline operational systems and make service delivery more efficient.
Jenn Johnson
she/her
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Vice President of Product and Technology
My passion is people, process, strategy, a culture of empowerment, and meaningful change. In my spare time, you can find me wandering local beaches collecting trash and treasure.
As Vice President of Product and Technology, Jenn supports and guides the Departments that fall under the Product and Technology area: Growth, Tech, Program Operations, and Civic Engagement.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jenn was a technology leader at several mission-driven organizations supporting a range of causes from free school supplies for underprivileged children to research and education for people affected by kidney disease. Most recently, Jenn was providing strategic governance technology consulting to nonprofit executives.
Jaya Todai
she/they
Taos, New Mexico
Director of Program Operations
I feel lucky to work alongside teammates who carry their own unflinching approach into the unknown. The complexity of our work doesn’t feel impossible when it’s shared.
As Director of Program Operations, Jaya leads our tech and chatbot team and advises on tech-enabled experimentation across our networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jaya provided marketing and advertising services to small businesses across the Southeast. She has a degree in English: Creative Writing at the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga. During their time at university, they launched a social justice program that connected university students with community activists to deepen the relationships between the campus and the city of Chattanooga.
Jasmin Stuckey
she/her
Alexandria, Virginia
Network Operations Associate
I love to take nature walks, try new restaurants on doordash, and enjoy learning about the latest strategies in digital marketing and filmmaking.
As a Network Operations Associate, Jasmin supports a variety of projects and initiatives across Accelerate Change.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jasmin was a Digital Advertising Specialist at Accelerate Change in 2020 for the voter’s registration campaign. She continued her work in digital marketing at other organizations, which led her back to AC.
Sahil Kotak
he/him
New York, New York
Vice President of Digital Strategy
I am a child of immigrants who hopes to help inspire and empower young people by sharing my passion for science and nature. I spent several years as a digital nomad, traveling to learn more about other cultures, explore the world and enjoy local foods.
As the Vice Preside of Digital Strategy, Sahil supports the Accelerate Change ecosystem partners in building engaged audience relationships and reaching revenue self-sustainability. The Digital Strategy area includes the following departments: Content and Experimentation Support, Growth and Influencer Engagement.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Sahil worked on strategy and creative at various early-stage startups at the intersection of education, technology and media. Earlier in his career, Sahil was a high school special education teacher and consultant for an education nonprofit. A California native, Sahil holds a BS from the University of California, Berkeley and MS from the City University of New York, Hunter College
Maria Helena Oliveira
she/her
Austin, Texas
Director of Content Experimentation
I am committed to working on causes that help in building a more equitable world.
As Director of Content Experimentation, Maria manages content experimentation with the Central Team and in collaboration with our network.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Maria was an entrepreneur and owner of an Austin-based vintage clothing store, Passport Vintage. Since 2016 Maria has volunteered and worked with nonprofits that focus on civic engagement and Latino-focused issues. She has worked as a digital media consultant for Jolt Texas and a Texas Federal Senatorial campaign. Maria is a Texas A&M University-Commerce alumn.
Richie Kamtchoum
he/him/his
Brooklyn, New York
Content Production Manager
In my spare time, I am the creator of a workplace comedy called MONDAZE that I’ve developed from podcast to web series. The series is an intersection of my passions and what I hope to do going forward — create engaging stories about underrepresented groups that, hopefully, are entertaining and intertwine social commentary.
As Content Production Manager, Richie runs content experiments and contributes his video production and scriptwriting skills to our Content Studio.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Richie had roles in marketing and events with Truth, a non-profit aiming to end Big Tobacco and teen smoking. Richie also worked freelance on various short film and episodic film sets in the D.C. area as a producer, production assistant, and camera grip. After college, Richie worked at credit unions in the mortgage lending field, before transitioning to his current role with Accelerate Change.
Christine Rushing
she/her
Savannah, Georgia
Network Operations Manager
I am an avid feminist, raising 4 feminist kids, striving to build a world that is safer, better, and more empathetic for all children and the people who raise them. Our family is full of avid animal lovers as well, and we foster dogs for a local rescue.
As Network Operations Manager, Christine manages operational support with our partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Christine founded and led a digital-native nonprofit organization and related online support community for 8 years, which serves families striving to feed their babies human milk, managing a team of volunteers, and spearheading several training and scholarship programs.
Peter Murray
he/him/his
Washington, DC
President
I grew up in Maine where I return as often as possible with my partner and two kids so that we can explore the woods and lakes and get lots of grandparent time.
As President, Peter co-leads Accelerate Change with our Chief of Staff, Lea Madry. In their shared leadership model, Peter leads our network of media partners and Lea leads our digital media lab.
Peter has spent over 20 years at the intersection of entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and progressive impact. He created one of the first digital fundraising platforms, led a progressive training institute, was part of the founding team of CrowdTangle, a leading social media monitoring platform, was a Tides Foundation Fellow researching large-scale citizen organizations, ran a community-based construction company, and was previously selected for Fast Company Magazine’s “Fast 50,” which honors 50 leaders from around the world who are reshaping their sectors.
Lea Madry
she/her
Chicago metro, Illinois
Executive Director
As a queer Black woman committed to being in service to others, I do this work because nobody’s free until everybody’s free.
As Executive Director, Lea co-leads Accelerate Change with our President, Peter Murray. In their shared leadership model, Lea leads our digital media lab and partners with Peter in his leadership of our network of media partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Lea held leadership roles overseeing the business, people, fundraising, and strategy functions at nonprofits focused on food systems, education access, power building, and anti-racism. Most recently, Lea served as Chief of Staff at the Trevor Project. Earlier in her career, Lea was a transactional attorney at a large national law firm before leaving the legal profession to pursue her commitment to social impact.
An Ohio native, Lea is a proud first-generation college graduate with a BA from the Ohio State University and JD from the University of Chicago Law School.
Habibah Haugstad
she/her/hers
Houston, TX
Partner Integration Manager
I am a child of the diaspora, and creating a space where everyone feels like they belong and are comfortable to truly be themselves is something that is dear to me.
As Partner Integration Manager, Habibah manages operational support with our partners.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Habibah worked as the Quality and Innovations Manager for Memorial Assistance Ministries (MAM), a non-profit whose mission is to partner with local communities in Houston Texas to build stable families, a dynamic workforce, and vibrant communities.
Habibah graduated from Prairie View A&M University with a B.S. in Electrical Engineering and worked in the Oil and Gas industry in a number of different roles before transitioning to the nonprofit field in 2021 for more purpose-driven work.
Cecilia M.
she/her/ella
Austin, Texas
Development Manager
I am the child of two Salvadoran immigrants and love to find different ways to continue learning about my culture. I understand how important it is to connect with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds and strive to learn about different cultures to help break barriers.
As Development Manager, Ceci manages our fundraising processes and systems.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Cecilia worked as an advocate for immigrant & worker rights in communities across Texas.
Cecilia is a proud first-generation college student who earned her BA from St. Edward’s University and a Master’s degree from Tarleton State University.
Jarrel Armster
he/him/his
Tenessee
Director of Growth
As a gay, black, first-generation college graduate, I understand the importance of equity and access — and I’m determined to create opportunity and space at the table for other folks from marginalized backgrounds.
As Director of Growth, Jarrel leads our growth experimentation team and advises on growth-oriented experimentation across our networks.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Jarrel held leadership roles at progressive nonprofits overseeing areas such as marketing, paid media, and fundraising. Additionally, from 2018 – 2021, Jarrel served as a Human Relations Commissioner for the City of Riverside California.
Sterling Faust
he/him
Nashville, TN
Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition
I have a love for the arts, and in my spare time, I serve as a dance instructor for dancers and figure skaters and lead community initiatives centered around the arts and inclusion.
As Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition, Sterling oversees the Talent Acquisition team and manages the full life cycle of recruiting and hiring across Accelerate Change.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Sterling worked in project management for nonprofits, real estate acquisitions, business operations, and the legal field. Sterling earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Cincinnati.
Clyde Dean
He/Him/His
Lousiville,KY
Paralegal
I am a lifetime learner. I love giving back and giving knowledge to people around me as well as learning from others. In my spare time, I give myself to my family and friends.
Prior to joining Accelerate Change, Clyde worked for a city government as an Assistant Contract Director. In addition, Clyde works as an adjunct professor for a University in Kentucky as it helps with the civic duty of giving back. Clyde is a first-generation college student with a BA and MS from the University of Kentucky and received his JD from Northern Kentucky University. Clyde looks to use his JD to uplift others.
Venture Staff
Accelerate Change incubates startup nonprofit media ventures. Our team also includes dozens of venture staff from Pulso, Noticias Para Inmigrantes, Localyst, ProgressPop, and an influencer network. Additionally, our team includes the following entrepreneur(s) in residence: Sahil Kotak.