Our Diverse Team
Learn More About Us
We are a diverse team with diverse backgrounds. In total, we speak over fifteen languages! But, we have one thing in common: a commitment to equity and justice. Most of us received advanced graduate degrees from Michigan State University in East Lansing, Michigan.
Our Core Team
Peter Penar, Ph.D. Founder & Executive Director
Peter is passionate about educational outreach and communication. He is in the Department of Political Science at Davidson College.
Violet Acumo, M.P.P. Associate Executive Director
Violet is passionate about technology for development and gender inclusion. She is at University of Massachusetts - Boston.
Jelili Adebiyi, Ph.D. Associate Director, Institute
Jelili is passionate about food systems and agriculture. He is in the Department of Community Sustainability at Michigan State University.
Gloria Nzeka, M.A. Director of Communications
Gloria is passionate about public communications. She is in the Department of Information Studies at the University of Maryland.
Eva Penar, M.P.P. Director of Research
Eva is passionate about data and analysis for development. She is a private data management and publications consultant.
Abel Gbala, M.A. Director of Monitoring & Evaluation
Abel is passionate about project evaluation and communication. He is a private monitoring and evaluation expert.
Hakeem Onapajo, Ph.D. Policy Analyst
Hakeem is passionate about the politics of security. He is in the Department of Political Science and International Relations at Nile University.
