Maria Madison has served as the Interim Dean of the Heller School at Brandeis University since 2022. Previously, she was Associate Dean for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity and Director of the Institute for Economic and Racial Equity (IERE). Madison holds an ScD in Population and International Health from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health and has led impactful initiatives addressing racial disparities. She is the founder of The Robbins House, a nonprofit preserving Black history in Concord, Massachusetts, and a trustee of Tufts University.

Bertha Akua Asare is a Senior Privacy and Information Security Analysts. Asare is a distinguished leader at Brandeis University with expertise in higher education, program development, and strategic leadership. She has a strong commitment to fostering diversity, academic excellence, and innovation within the university environment.

Professor Joseph K. Assan is a faculty member in the Sustainable International Development Program at Brandeis University’s Heller School. He holds a PhD from the University of Liverpool and serves as Associate Director for International Political Economy and Sustainable Development. With expertise in migration, climate change, and social protection, Professor Assan is the editor of CASTE: A Global Journal on Social Exclusion and has published widely in peer-reviewed journals.

Ezra Tefera is an accomplished leader with expertise in higher education administration, strategic planning, and academic leadership. He plays a key role in advancing Brandeis University’s mission through collaboration, innovation, and institutional development.

Ms. Levia Y.Davis, M.Sc – Information Management Officer at the U.S. Embassy. With extensive expertise in information management, she plays a key role in ensuring effective communication, data management, and operational excellence in diplomatic engagements.

Francisca Afua Opoku-Boateng, PhD, Senior Cyber Consultant at Ernst & Young, specializing in cyber-threat management and operational technology. She holds a PhD in Cyber Defense and previously served as an Assistant Professor of Digital Forensics and Cybersecurity Principles. Dr. Opoku-Boateng’s research focuses on OSINT, dark web investigations, cyber-threat intelligence, and promoting diversity in STEM. She is an active mentor, speaker, and board member dedicated to fostering inclusivity and ethical OSINT practices.