American Institutes for Research (AIR) Executive and Leadership Team

Pamela Keefe, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs the financial health and fiscal strategy of the organization. Keefe manages complex budgeting processes, financial reporting, and resource allocation to support the diverse research portfolio spanning education, health, and human development. By overseeing the financial infrastructure, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer ensures that the institution maintains the stability required to conduct rigorous, independent research. This role involves monitoring global economic trends and their impact on research funding, while also implementing fiscal controls that promote transparency and accountability. Pamela Keefe collaborates with the Board to align financial planning with the long-term vision of the organization. Through prudent management of assets and investments, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer secures the necessary capital to sustain the institution's commitment to enhancing the human experience through science.

Kelley Blanchie, the Chief of Staff at American Institutes for Research (AIR), coordinates executive operations to ensure alignment with the organization's mission of applying behavioral science to societal challenges. Blanchie manages internal workflows and facilitates communication between the leadership team and the broader research staff. By streamlining administrative processes, the Chief of Staff enables researchers to focus on high-impact projects in education and health. This role involves overseeing cross-departmental initiatives that support the long-term sustainability of the institution. Kelley Blanchie maintains a focus on operational efficiency, ensuring that resources reach critical research areas effectively. Through the management of strategic priorities, the Chief of Staff supports the organization's commitment to objectivity and non-partisanship. This leadership position requires constant collaboration with senior management to refine internal policies and drive the execution of organizational goals across all research divisions.

Lesley Sepanloo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), architects the talent management strategy for a workforce of over 1,800 experts. Sepanloo oversees recruitment, professional development, and performance management systems designed to attract and retain top-tier talent in fields like psychometrics, statistics, and public health. By fostering an inclusive and high-performing culture, the Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that the organization maintains its intellectual diversity and research excellence. This role involves implementing programs that support employee growth and well-being, which are essential for driving innovation in behavioral science. Lesley Sepanloo aligns human capital initiatives with the broader mission of the institution, ensuring that the workforce remains equipped to tackle complex societal issues. Through the development of robust talent pipelines, the Chief Human Resources Officer strengthens the organization's capacity to deliver effective, science-based solutions to global challenges.

Makini Nyanteh, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs the external messaging and brand strategy for the organization. Nyanteh oversees the dissemination of research findings to policymakers, practitioners, and the public, ensuring that the institution's work reaches those who can implement effective change. By managing media relations, digital presence, and stakeholder engagement, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer amplifies the impact of research in education, health, and workforce development. This role involves crafting narratives that highlight the organization's commitment to objectivity and non-partisanship. Makini Nyanteh collaborates with research teams to translate complex data into accessible insights, thereby increasing the visibility of the institution's contributions to the science of human behavior. Through strategic communication, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer builds trust with partners and ensures that the organization's mission remains at the forefront of public discourse.