On behalf of Leonardo/ISAST, I am thrilled to announce that three outstanding new members have joined our Governing Board of Directors: Dr. Amir Banifatemi, Dr. Nonny de laPeńa, and Dr. Sian Proctor. Their exceptional leadership across diverse fields stands to enhance and advance the visibility, capacity and impact of Leonardo’s work. We are grateful for their collaborative engagement, dedication and shared commitment to bring the power of creativity to shape a better world.

• Amir Banifatemi, a leading technology executive, investor, and thought leader, brings over 25 years experience creating technology-based ventures and new markets. He is focused on advancing AI and human empowerment while prioritizing ethics and safety, demonstrating responsible innovation at scale. Read full bio.

• Nonny de la Peña, the founding director of ASU’s Narrative and Emerging Media program, brings more than 20 years of experience as an award-winning writer, director and producer in virtual, augmented and extended reality, film, print and television. De la Peña has been featured as the Wall Street Journal “Technology Innovator of the Year” and has been called “The Godmother of Virtual Reality” by Engadget, The Guardian and others. Read full bio.

• Sian Proctor is a celebrated Artist, Futurist, and Explorer whose work bridges science, space exploration, humanity, and creative expression. Born on Guam to a father who worked at NASA's tracking station during the Apollo missions, Proctor's artistic vision has been shaped by a lifelong connection to space and Earth sciences, and her advanced degrees in Environmental Science, Geology, and Science Education. Read full bio. 

Thank you Sian, Nonny & Amir. We are honored to welcome you to Leonardo and can’t wait to work together!

Diana Ayton-Shenker, CEO