American Institutes for Research (AIR) Executive and Leadership Team

Jessica Heppen, the President & Chief Executive Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Heppen guides AIR's mission to apply rigorous behavioral and social science research to improve everyday life, ensuring the effective deployment of innovative ideas. This leadership role involves setting the strategic vision for AIR's diverse research portfolio, which spans education, health, human development, and performance improvement. Heppen collaborates with senior leaders to foster a culture of intellectual diversity and scientific independence, critical for tackling complex societal issues. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that AIR's work consistently uphns the highest standards of objectivity and non-partisanship. By championing research excellence, Jessica Heppen drives the organization's impact and its commitment to making the world a better place through evidence-based solutions.

Pamela Keefe, the Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), manages the organization's financial health and fiscal strategy. Keefe oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, accounting, and treasury functions, ensuring robust financial stewardship. This critical role involves safeguarding AIR's assets and optimizing financial resources to support its extensive research initiatives across education, health, and human development. The Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer works closely with the President & Chief Executive Officer and other senior leaders to align financial planning with strategic objectives, enabling the organization to pursue its mission of applying science to improve everyday life. Pamela Keefe's oversight extends to financial compliance and risk management, ensuring operational integrity and supporting AIR's commitment to non-partisanship and objectivity in its research endeavors. Through meticulous financial management, Keefe underpins the sustainability and growth of AIR's impactful work.

Lesley Sepanloo, the Chief Human Resources Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), leads the strategic direction and operational management of all human capital initiatives. Sepanloo is responsible for cultivating a high-performing organizational culture that supports AIR's mission of applying behavioral and social science research to enhance everyday life. This encompasses talent acquisition, development, compensation, benefits, and employee relations for AIR's diverse workforce of over 1,800 professionals. The Chief Human Resources Officer ensures that HR policies and practices align with AIR's core values of independence, objectivity, and non-partisanship, fostering an environment where intellectual diversity thrives. Lesley Sepanloo plays a pivotal role in attracting and retaining top talent, including experts in fields such as education, psychology, and public health, thereby strengthening AIR's capacity to address complex societal challenges. By prioritizing employee well-being and professional growth, Sepanloo directly contributes to the organization's sustained success and its commitment to making the world a better place.

Catherine Livingston, the Chief Legal Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs for the organization. Livingston ensures that AIR's operations and research activities adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards, upholding the organization's commitment to independence and objectivity. This role involves managing contracts, intellectual property, corporate governance, and litigation, safeguarding AIR's interests across its broad spectrum of work in education, health, and human development. The Chief Legal Officer collaborates closely with executive leadership to navigate complex legal landscapes and mitigate risks, thereby supporting the effective execution of AIR's mission to apply science for societal benefit. Catherine Livingston's expertise is crucial in maintaining AIR's reputation as a trusted, non-partisan research institution. By providing strategic legal guidance, Livingston enables AIR to pursue innovative solutions and make a tangible positive impact on everyday life.

Makini Nyanteh, the Senior Vice President, Chief Communications Officer at American Institutes for Research (AIR), directs the organization's comprehensive communication strategies and public relations efforts. Nyanteh is responsible for articulating AIR's mission and impact to diverse audiences, ensuring clear and consistent messaging about its behavioral and social science research. This leadership position involves overseeing internal and external communications, media relations, brand management, and digital engagement, all designed to amplify AIR's work in areas like education, health, and performance improvement. The Chief Communications Officer plays a vital role in translating complex research findings into accessible narratives that highlight AIR's commitment to enhancing everyday life. Makini Nyanteh collaborates with executive leadership to promote AIR's non-partisan stance and its dedication to objectivity. By strategically managing communications, Nyanteh strengthens AIR's visibility and influence, reinforcing its position as a leading research organization dedicated to societal betterment.