Team Members
Dr. Leila Golestaneh Austin
Executive Director
Dr. Austin provides operational direction and strategy. She oversees programs and activities that promote the role of Iranian Americans in the social, cultural, and economic tapestry of the United States and leads all facets of the organization.
Morad Ghorban
Director of Gov’t Affairs & Policy
Mr. Ghorban is responsible for advancing PAAIA’s advocacy agenda. He is in charge of directing PAAIA’s policy initiatives, planning and executing PAAIA’s government relations strategy, and orchestrating PAAIA’s electioneering activities.
Shannon Kuehn
Director of Communications
Ms. Kuehn leads the creation of content & design for PAAIA’s social media, website, newsletters, & updates. Her goal is to create a cohesive brand that represents PAAIA’s objectives and conveys an accurate image of the Iranian American community.
Emily Porter
Public Policy Research Associate & Civic Engagement Coordinator
Ms. Porter is in charge of researching policy relevant to the Iranian American community, writing briefs, reports, articles, & letters to officials about such policy, and leading PAAIA’s Civic Engagement Forum.
Aman Ardalan
Digital Communications and Policy Associate
Mr. Ardalan works on communications and digital campaigns for PAAIA as well as assisting with policy research.
Ali Rahnama
Legislative Counsel
Mr. Rahnama serves as a key legal, policy and strategic advisor to PAAIA. He provides essential legal & legislative advice to promote the interests of the Iranian American community by maintaining productive relationships with local and national policymakers.
Kathy Heverin
Accountant
Ms. Heverin is responsible for maintaining all accounting records and preparing financial analysis and reports. She also provides financial support, data, information, & analysis connected with payroll, workers compensation, taxes, & licensing requirements.