Galen Hines-Pierce is an independent researcher, catalyzer, and convener focused on democratic modernization and innovation to enhance state capacity. He has a particular interest in the intersections of democratic pluralism, participation, and human-machine intelligence. He spent the first quarter of his career in the U.S. civil service and earned his Master of Public Policy from the Harris School at the University of Chicago, where he serves on the advisory council with the Center for Effective Government. He resides in Texas with his wife and children.