Makala Conner is a Government Innovation Fellow with the Criminal Justice Team. She is supporting the launch of alternative 9-1-1 emergency response programs in local jurisdictions to divert calls to professionals trained in unarmed response that provide resources according to community needs. Makala has a variety of experience increasing the accessibility of progressive initiatives for marginalized populations. Prior to joining the GPL, she assisted the development of the Department of Public Health in Dearborn, MI and managed both quantitative and qualitative data at a food bank providing meals to underprivileged youth. Makala also served as an AmeriCorps volunteer working with local communities to advance environmental justice efforts. 

Makala recently earned a Masters of Public Health with a certificate in Social Epidemiology from the University of Michigan. She also holds a B.S. in Health and Human Sciences from Loyola Marymount University. In her spare time, Makala enjoys nature walks, exploring vegan recipes and playing tennis.