Taylor Evans, PhD, is a senior associate at the Milken Institute Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC). Her expertise lies in biomedical research, molecular genetics, rare diseases, and computational biology tools. At the Institute, she analyzes the biomedical research landscape to develop and support philanthropically funded projects across science and health disciplines

Gretchen Burton is an experienced executive assistant at the Milken Institute. She brings a wealth of administrative expertise cultivated during her years in Los Angeles. Her journey includes diverse roles at esteemed companies like Fair and Just Prosecution, 20th Century Fox, and Walt Disney Studios. Proudly hailing from Arizona, she holds dual degrees in Journalism and Film Studies from ASU's Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Elizabeth Burke, PhD, is an associate director on the Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC) team at Milken Institute Philanthropy. Her expertise lies in rare disease research, including neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, strategic planning, project management, and promoting collaboration between clinical and scientific teams.

Tanisha London is a senior associate with the Milken Institute Philanthropy’s Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC) team. Her expertise in neuroscience research, grant management, and venture capital gives her a unique perspective on strategic funding that ensures innovative projects are both financially viable and empirically validated.

Sara ElShafie, PhD, is a senior associate in the philanthropic pillar of the Milken Institute. Serving its Social Innovation portfolio as a global climate specialist, ElShafie helps to build climate and environmental philanthropic initiatives.

Emily Musil, PhD, is a managing director at the Milken Institute, where she leads the Institute's Environment and Social Equity Philanthropy portfolio. She also leads innovation competitions for the Milken Institute.

Cara Altimus, PhD is a managing director on the Science Philanthropy Accelerator for Research and Collaboration (SPARC) team at the Milken Institute, leading the science and health innovation portfolio. A PhD neuroscientist, Altimus advises individual philanthropists and foundations on the state of research for various areas including neurodegenerative disease and mental health, identifying opportunities where their capital can make the biggest impact.

Mala Persaud is the director of communications for Milken Institute Philanthropy. A former journalist, Persaud is a mission-driven communications leader with expertise in science and health communications.

Melissa Stevens is the executive vice president of Milken Institute Philanthropy, leading its work with individual and family philanthropists and foundations seeking to make a transformative, sustainable impact. Since co-founding Milken Institute Philanthropy in 2015, she has overseen the creation and execution of philanthropic strategies that have influenced more than $3 billion in capital and built an unmatched network for donors to collaborate and amplify their impact.

Glorimar Aragon is an associate director with Milken Institute Philanthropy. In her role, she focuses on social impact philanthropy, designing and operating innovation competitions, and advising on philanthropic strategies. Working on a range of issue areas from green energy technology to economic mobility, Aragon uses an equity lens to inform her work.