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Changing realities one step at a time...
The Franklin Foundation's directors and council members are working to impact the futures of many through our progressive programs that put science, technology, and advanced mathematics first.
The Franklin Foundation's Executive Board of Directors represent America's fundamental interest in improving national focus on the Sciences, Mathematics, and Technology in our schools and in our society. The Executive Board is responsible for the management and direction of the organization's philanthropic operations. The Executive Board is also responsible for the promotion of the organization's message, and execution of the Foundation's mission statement.
Endre Jarraux Walls
Chairman, Executive Board of Directors
Chief Executive Officer - The Franklin Foundation
A young technologist himself, Mr. Walls founded the Franklin Foundation with the intent of creating a source of real opportunity for America's young people.
Deana Zelenka
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Chief Executive Officer - Oppelle
An innovator, executive, entreprenuer, scientist, and mother of 3, Mrs. Zelenka's experience, knowledge, and talent are what make her an excellent director for the foundation.
Dr. Peter Jesson, Ph.D.
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Retired Laboratory Director & Expert in Physical Chemistry
Dr. Jesson is a distinguished scientist, researcher, scholar, and civiic leader who's subject-matter expertise in the sciences and strong support of the sciences, advanced mathematics, and technology make him an excellent director for the foundation.
Dr. Masha Petrova, Ph.D.
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Chief Executive Officer - MVP Modeling Solutions, LLC
Dr. Petrova is a distinguished scientist and engineer skilled in the development of technologies related to chemical modeling and combustion studies. Her energy, expertise, and knowledge make her an effective director for the foundation.
Dr. Shawn Hales, Psy.D.
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Program Evaluator - Baltimore City Schools
Adjunct Professor - Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Dr. Hales currently serves as an educational psychologist and evaluator to one of our nation's most troubled school districts in Balmore, MD. His work closely relates to that of the Foundation making him a passionate and skilled director.
Michele Eidam
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Engineering Start-Up Manager - Procter & Gamble
Ms. Eidam is a young, innovative, energetic, and skilled executive and engineer with international exposure and a chemical engineering background. Her energy, talent, and passion for advocacy make her an excellent director for the foundation.
Robert O'Brien
1st Vice Chairman, Executive Board of Directors
Executive Vice President - Sequentus International
A 40 year veteran of the information technology industry, Mr. O'Brien is a skilled presenter, and technologist with experience in philanthropic advocacy. His passion for innovation and belief in the power of knowledge makes him an excellent director.
Dr. Henry Wolfe, Ph.D.
Member, Executive Board of Directors
Principal - Specified Consulting, Inc.
Dr. Wolfe possess over 26 years of experience in education and the sciences and has served as a Chief Scientific Officer in biotechnology. His support of education and belief in our mission makes him an excellent director.
Mr. Dale Polekoff
2nd Vice Chairman, Executive Board of Directors
Chief Information Officer - Jacob Stern & Sons, Inc.
Mr. Polekoff is an executive in Information Technology, an avid fan of the sciences and technology, and a champion of innovation both in business and in education. His support of the organization's mision and passion for education make him an excellent director.
Mr. George Jones
Treasurer, Executive Board of Directors
Investments Executive - Watts Investments
Mr. Jones is an experienced investments advisor with over 20 years of financials experience. He served as a member of the board of directors for other non-profit organizations in the human services and advocacy sectors. His breadth of experience in financials and investments help The Franklin Foundation make efficient use of donor funds.
Mr. Ray Krauss
Member, Executive Board of Directors
CEO - VitalFusion Corp.
Mr. Krauss is an experienced business leader, entrepreneur, and American innovator. With over 30 years of experience in the life sciences field, Mr. Krauss brings a business-side approach to innovation in the sciences. His love for the sciences, passion for education, and experience in innovation are what makes him an excellent director for the foundation.