MindStand originally began as a hackathon idea at UMD’s “Bitcamp” competition in May 2018. Technical founders Eric Solender and Nikita Wootten submitted a “hate speech identifier” as an entry, placing second in the Bloomberg Award for Most Philanthropic Hack. CEO and cofounder, Michael Ogunsanya, joined shortly thereafter to provide his vision and corporate experience in order to scale MindStand Technologies.
With industry acclaim and an eagerness to innovate, MindStand began technical development in July 2018, scrapping our original hackathon code. Since then, we’ve partnered with over 13 HR firms to improve inclusion, joined the board of numerous DEI-focused nonprofits, and executed our company vision to become the gold standard in combating online harassment. From holding initial board meetings at UMBC’s dining hall to joining the Inaugural Techstars Equitech cohort, MindStand has created a family that’s dedicated to our vision.
Michael leads MindStand’s vision by ensuring that our philanthropic mission and business strategies are shared with organizations around the world.
Eric leads technical development at MindStand, in addition to head of programming on the backend. His main area of focus is backend data processing and storage, but also take hands on ML and User Interface Development.
Nikita leads the ML development at MindStand. Although his main area of focus is on machine learning and analysis, he also works on the backend and User Interface.
Anthony leads partnerships between MindStand and mission-aligned organizations building DEI services
Taylor develops and maintains MindStand's branding system. She leads design for document layouts, icons, marketing material, and UI displays.
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Chintan leads the UI and UX processes for the creation of MindStand AI products. He engages externally with clients and partners.
Micah leads the design and curation of content for all of MindStand's social media platforms.
Mark is responsible for the development of MindStand AI’s machine learning insights and product.
Steven is responsible for backend API development and API integration.
Kiesha has an extensive background of nearly 15 years of executive leadership support. She works in the capacity of C-Suite management and administration and establishing onboarding systems.
Steve develops MindStand’s machine learning insights and implements frontend features into the dashboard.