Dr. Ross is an experienced data science executive and academic leader who specializes in leveraging business, engineering, and data to optimize decision-making. His various roles have ranged from architecting and designing production ML/AI systems, to hiring, growing, and leading engineering and data science teams.

Previously, Dr. Ross led the data science and backend engineering efforts at The Meta, an esports training platform used by millions of competitive gamers. Before joining The Meta, Dr. Ross was a Professor of Data Science at the University of San Francisco, where his research focused on how to effectively use data and data science techniques to answer business questions. During this time, he was also the Assistant Director of the University of San Francisco’s Data Institute, where he led and developed academic-industry partnerships to create a world-class masters of data science program. Under his leadership, the Data Institute placed hundreds of students into top data science positions in both the private and public sectors, with a job placement rate of over 90% within 3 months of graduation. As a consultant, he spearheaded data efforts at leading tech companies in the video and online game industry, from early-stage startups to multinational companies.

Dr. Ross received his PhD from UCLA, his Masters from UC Davis, and his Bachelor of Science from UC Berkeley. He has published papers in a variety of journals as well as given talks in both academic and industry settings.

Tim Hannifan is Assistant Clinic Director for the Data Science Institute at the University of Chicago. He is responsible for managing the execution of an experiential learning program for University students, recruiting and retaining data science partner organizations, and mentoring student teams to implement data science solutions for government, industry, and social impact organizations. Prior to joining the DSI, Tim worked on data science initiatives at Mathematica Policy Research and The World Bank. He holds a MS in Computational Analysis and Public Policy and a BA in Economics from the University of Chicago.

Anne brings a history of successful corporate engagement, strategic partnerships, and nonprofit leadership to her role as Director of Corporate Partnerships at the Data Science Institute. Anne previously served as a national program manager at the American Red Cross. There, she led several high-impact initiatives, including the Annual Disaster Giving Program, where she successfully partnered with over 150 top corporations to advance the organization’s disaster relief efforts.

Anne’s experience extends beyond national borders, having served as an international strategic advisor, where she worked closely with sister Red Cross Societies to craft and implement comprehensive resource mobilization strategies. Before her work at the Red Cross, she served on the Development team at Equal Justice Works, a nonprofit dedicated to creating a sustainable pathway for recent law graduates to enter public interest law.

Anne also holds a master’s degree in public policy from the Harris School at the University of Chicago.