Mimi Kothari is the Founder and Executive Director of the Co-AI Founder Foundation, a mission-driven organization focused on expanding access to structured innovation support and modern tools that help individuals turn ideas into practical solutions with real-world impact.
Her work centers on enabling individuals across life stages and backgrounds, particularly those historically underrepresented from traditional education and entrepreneurship, to develop the skills, confidence, and technical fluency needed to move from ideas to action. Under her leadership, the Foundation delivers guided innovation programs and problem-solving experiences that help individuals identify real problems, evaluate opportunities, and mobilize the right tools and resources to build and test solutions. This includes hands-on engagement with modern tools used in service of innovation and solution development rather than abstract learning.
Mimi brings a background in federal public service, having previously served as a Health Scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where she worked on applied research and data readiness initiatives supporting emergency preparedness and response. Working across the full lifecycle, from research to funded implementation, reinforced the importance of clear decision-making, responsible technology use, and execution within complex systems. That perspective informs the Foundation’s emphasis on structured innovation pathways that build agency, accountability, and impact. Through the Foundation, Mimi is committed to closing the gap between potential and opportunity by equipping individuals with the skills, tools and frameworks needed to design, build, and lead from wherever they are starting.
Jessie Madden is a seasoned school psychologist with nearly two decades of experience supporting children from preschool through 12th grade. Her work spans academic achievement, social-emotional development, and functional growth, with a career rooted in close collaboration with educators, families, and community stakeholders.
Jessie brings a systems-level perspective shaped by extensive experience serving diverse learners and school communities. Her work is grounded in a deep commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and equitable outcomes for all children. As a Board Member of the Co-AI Founder Foundation, Jessie contributes her professional expertise, strategic insight, and advocacy for equitable access to resources that expand opportunity and strengthen outcomes for individuals and communities.
Ali Alderfer is an educator, writer, and editor who specializes in informal learning through media. She holds a master of education from Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education and is passionate about harnessing the power of media and technology to inspire, educate, and empower kids to use creativity, problem-solving, and innovation to thrive in today’s tech-driven world.
Ali brings a background in creative writing, strategic problem-solving and experience in both classroom and non-traditional teaching and learning. Her work is guided by a vision for equity in education and creating opportunities for children from marginalized communities to have equal access to resources and technology to help them pursue ideas and goals without limitations. She is dedicated to public service, and is currently the Writer/Editor for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the largest pediatric not-for-profit healthcare system in the Southeast. In addition, Ali has been a volunteer Wish Granter for the Make-A-Wish Foundation for more than 20 years, as well as a member of the alumni endowment board for Voices United, a nonprofit youth arts organization. As a Board Member of the Co-AI Founder Foundation, Ali supports the organization’s mission to expand access to innovation as a tool for change, empowerment, and social impact.