Meet Our Team

  • Founding President & Chief Executive Officer


    Samar S. Ali is an international conflict resolution expert and civic leader with a background in law, diplomacy, and national security. As Founding President and CEO of Millions of Conversations, she focuses on building belonging and bridging divides through dialogue and policy. Her leadership is grounded in human rights, global cooperation, and a commitment to unity in diversity.

  • Chief Strategic Officer

    Jason Dempsey is a retired Army officer, author, and civil-military relations expert. With deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan and senior roles in the Pentagon and White House, he brings deep experience in public service, civic responsibility, and veteran advocacy. He advances inclusive citizenship and strengthens the connection between Americans and their military.

  • Chief of Staff

    Mungi Ngomane is a seasoned operations and program management professional with expertise in strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and program development across diverse sectors. Her focus on peacebuilding, women's empowerment, and the philosophy of 'Ubuntu' brings a globally informed, human-centered approach to leadership. As an author and advocate for cross-cultural communication, she champions collective action and the recognition of shared humanity in all initiatives.

  • Managing Director

    Elise Burns is an entrepreneurial strategic operations leader with expertise in finance management, nonprofit governance, and organizational development. She applies a systems-thinking approach to optimize administrative functions and drive mission-aligned growth. With a background in anthropology, peacebuilding, and women's empowerment, she brings a culturally informed, research-driven perspective to organizational strategy, stakeholder engagement, and impact-driven initiatives.

  • Program Coordinator

    Evelyn Angarica is a passionate advocate for health equity with a focus on the intersection of healthcare and community outreach. With a background in public health, youth mentorship, and clinical care, she brings a people-centered approach to dismantling disinformation and promoting wellness. As Program Coordinator at Millions of Conversations, she empowers communities through education, engagement, and access to equitable care.

  • Board of Directors, Chair

    Sabeen Malik is a global public policy leader with expertise in law, innovation economies, and tech policy. She brings experience from government, private sector, and civil society, and is passionate about inclusive economic development and democratic engagement. Her leadership is shaped by a global perspective and a commitment to equity.

  • Board of Directors, Treasurer

    Jessica Johnson is a financial strategist and nonprofit leader with a strong commitment to equity and social impact. She brings expertise in organizational finance, strategic planning, and community investment. Her work centers on empowering underserved communities through sustainable and mission-driven growth.

  • Board of Directors, Secretary

    Ken Robbins is a civic educator, entrepreneur, and retired Army officer with a focus on leadership development and public service. He brings a strong foundation in American political systems and veteran engagement, using a community-first approach to bridge divides and foster collective action.

  • Advisory Council Chair

    Lori Sostowski is a retired attorney and dedicated advocate for education and social equity. Through volunteer work and nonprofit leadership, she champions literacy, family support, and community empowerment. Her work is grounded in service, compassion, and a belief in the power of everyday action.

Internship program

In addition to our full-time staff, the work we do is made possible by members of our intern program.

Each school year students from around the country join us to become MOC interns, working toward our mission of building a healthier democracy.

Interested in MOC internship opportunities? Fill out this form here to add your resume to our database - if and when you’re a match for an open role we’ll reach out!