Braven Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Braven has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and partnerships.

Driven by a commitment to student success, Braven empowers underrepresented college students with essential career readiness skills, bridging the gap between academia and meaningful employment through targeted education and professional networking.

Leadership Roles at Braven

  • Chief Executive Officer - Edu Prezzi
  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Aimée Davis
  • Co President - Samara Lakhan
  • Chief of Staff - Catherine Deutsch
  • Edu Prezzi - Chief Executive Officer

    Edu Prezzi, the Chief Executive Officer at Braven, directs the organization's overarching strategy and operational execution. Prezzi focuses on expanding Braven's reach and impact, ensuring the non-profit effectively serves low-income, underrepresented college students. This leadership involves cultivating key partnerships with educational institutions and industry leaders to enhance the Braven Accelerator course and Post Course Experience Program. Prezzi drives initiatives that strengthen the organization's financial sustainability and programmatic effectiveness, aligning all efforts with Braven's core mission of facilitating successful transitions from college to post-graduate employment. The Chief Executive Officer's role is central to scaling the organization's proven model across new markets and deepening engagement with existing university partners. Edu Prezzi ensures that Braven's educational offerings remain relevant and impactful in preparing students for the demands of the professional world.

    Aimée Davis - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Aimée Davis, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Braven, established the organization's foundational mission to equip underrepresented students with critical career skills. Davis guides the strategic vision, focusing on the development and implementation of programs like the Braven Accelerator course. This involves fostering strong relationships with universities such as San Jose State, Rutgers-Newark, and National Louis University to integrate Braven's curriculum effectively. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer oversees the organization's growth and impact, ensuring that students gain essential soft skills and networking opportunities vital for post-graduate success. Davis's leadership emphasizes innovation in educational delivery and the cultivation of a supportive community for Braven Fellows. Aimée Davis is dedicated to advancing the organization's capacity to serve a growing number of students and to continuously refine the pathways to meaningful employment.
    Aimée Davis

    Samara Lakhan - Co President

    Samara Lakhan, the Co President at Braven, drives key aspects of the organization's operational strategy and program delivery. Lakhan focuses on enhancing the student experience within the Braven Accelerator course, ensuring participants acquire essential soft and networking skills. This leadership involves collaborating with university partners to maximize student engagement and program impact. The Co President oversees initiatives aimed at strengthening the Post Course Experience Program, supporting fellows as they transition into post-graduate employment. Samara Lakhan works to foster robust relationships with industry professionals who serve as team leaders, enriching the learning environment. This role is crucial for expanding Braven's reach and ensuring the quality of educational services provided to underrepresented, low-income college students.

    Catherine Deutsch - Chief of Staff

    Catherine Deutsch, the Chief of Staff at Braven, provides critical operational support and strategic alignment across the organization. Deutsch manages key initiatives that enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of Braven's programs, including the Braven Accelerator course and the Post Course Experience Program. This role involves close collaboration with the Chief Executive Officer and other leadership to translate strategic objectives into actionable plans. Catherine Deutsch oversees cross-functional projects, ensuring seamless execution and resource optimization. The Chief of Staff plays a vital part in strengthening internal processes and facilitating communication between departments. Deutsch's focus is on driving operational excellence and supporting the scaling of Braven's educational model to reach more low-income, underrepresented college students nationwide.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Braven Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Braven?
    Braven is led by Edu Prezzi (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Aimée Davis (Founder & Chief Executive Officer) and Samara Lakhan (Co President).
    Who is part of Braven’s executive team?
    The executive team of Braven includes leaders such as Edu Prezzi (Chief Executive Officer), Aimée Davis (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Samara Lakhan (Co President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Braven have?
    Braven has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Braven’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Braven includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Co President, Chief of Staff.