Leadership Team

Dr. Soumitra Das is a visionary leader blending expertise from leadership roles in Fortune 500 companies, the US Government, and global telecommunications standards groups. Trained as a Climate Reality Leader by former US Vice President Al Gore, he spearheads impactful initiatives like glacier preservation, large-scale rewilding, and the Climate Awareness for National Cooling Strategy. Dr. Das drives bold, innovative solutions to mitigate climate impacts and secure a sustainable future. He holds degrees from George Mason University and The Wharton School.

Dr. Brian von Herzen, Executive Director of The Climate Foundation, is a visionary leader and Hertz and Edmund Hillary Fellow. With expertise spanning planetary science, computer science, and ecosystem restoration, he pioneers scalable, nature-based solutions to combat climate change, restore ocean health, and bolster biodiversity. A leader in Marine Permaculture, he has regenerated vast kelp forests and marine ecosystems. Dr. von Herzen holds degrees from Princeton and Caltech, driving his mission to advance food security, carbon sequestration, and a sustainable global future.

Dr. Arunima Ghosh, a board-certified Pathologist with a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from Cleveland State University, brings over 15 years of expertise in translational and oncology research. Renowned for her strategic vision, she has led key initiatives in biobanking, molecular medicine, and digital pathology, driving innovation and forging impactful partnerships. Skilled in cost-effective project management and regulatory compliance, Dr. Ghosh has led diverse teams across the U.S., advancing oncology marker discovery, enhancing performance, and transforming operations with impactful solutions.

Ms. Carolina Carvalho, a dedicated network ecologist, bridges ecological research and technology to foster harmony between humanity and nature. As Lead Ecologist and Data Scientist at African Data Technologies, she uses data science and Digital-MRV to drive regenerative projects, accelerating the shift toward sustainability. A certified permaculture designer and educator with Kumano Shindo GIA, she empowers communities through impactful programs. Active in the Global Regeneration CoLab, her expertise enriches HCI, advancing its mission for a safer climate.

Mr. Neil Ghosh is a seasoned executive with a lifelong mission to champion the rights of marginalized communities, particularly children. Currently the president of MGR Professional Services, Inc. and senior advisor to the Ousri Foundation, Neil has led impactful organizations, including SOS Children’s Villages USA and SNV USA. A pioneer in public-private partnerships, he helped establish the Clean Cook Stove Initiative, transforming lives globally. Featured in outlets like CNN and HuffPost, Neil is also a thought leader and author, inspiring action for a just and sustainable future.

Mr. Mark Nadel, a retired Attorney Advisor, brings over four decades of expertise in public service and policy. During his 35 years at the Federal Communications Commission, he shaped pivotal regulatory frameworks in the communications sector. Earlier, as a Policy Analyst at the United States Congress Office of Technology Assessment, he advanced forward-thinking policies bridging technology and legislation. A dedicated advocate for equity, he serves on the boards of Challenging Racism and New Story Leadership. Mr. Nadel holds a B.Sc. from Amherst College and a J.D. from Harvard University.

Mr. Karunakar Reddy Mardi, known as the "Green Man of India" and "Water Hero," is a visionary social entrepreneur with over two decades of impact in environmental conservation. As the founder of Smaat India, Walk for Water, and Igniting Minds, he has pioneered eco-friendly water treatment solutions, restored over 14,000 borewells, and spearheaded India’s largest tree-planting initiative with 192.5 million trees. Globally recognized for innovative water technologies and disaster response, his work continues to inspire action toward sustainability and climate.

Rituraj Phukan, an environmental writer, TEDx speaker, and climate change mentor from Assam, India, is the National Coordinator for Biodiversity at The Climate Reality Project India and the Founder and President of the Indigenous People’s Climate Justice Forum. Trained as a Climate Reality Leader by Al Gore, he was featured in Gore’s 2017 book, An Inconvenient Sequel: Truth to Power. With firsthand experience from Arctic and Antarctic expeditions, he has received honors like the Sanctuary Wildlife Service Award and the Mahabahu Award for his impactful climate advocacy.