Ali Benson (she/her) brings over a decade of cross-sector experience in cultivating communities of practice, instructional design, and organizational development. 

Ali joined the Beeck Center in 2021 and co-founded Data Labs, a program that helps states launch data-sharing projects that improve government services and the lives of residents. Under her leadership, Data Labs grew into an award-winning initiative, receiving recognition from DigiDay and Fast Company for its impact and promise to define the future of government.

In 2025, Ali assumed leadership of the State CDO Network, guiding efforts to elevate the role of state CDOs, foster cross-state collaboration, and strengthen data-informed decision-making across the public sector. She also serves on the Beeck Center’s leadership team. 

Prior to her time at Beeck, Ali developed capacity building programs for grantmakers, nonprofit leaders, and Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs) in both domestic and international contexts. She is passionate about empowering emerging leaders and championing non-traditional career paths.

Outside of work, Ali enjoys cinema club and dabbling in creative pursuits ranging from blues guitar to gouache. She holds a BA in Art History from UC Santa Barbara, and is a proud graduate of Santa Ana Community College.