Leadership & Team — Good Samaritan Institute

Founder & Executive Director

[Photo Placeholder: Douglas Liles Portrait]

Douglas Liles

Founder & Executive Director

Douglas Liles founded Good Samaritan Institute in 2002 with a mission to prove that technology, applied with intention and accountability, could address real-world challenges at scale. His founding insight emerged from translational cancer research: artificial intelligence could bridge critical communication gaps between laboratory scientists and clinical practitioners, enabling faster adoption of breakthrough discoveries.

Over two decades, Douglas has guided the evolution of this foundational vision into a comprehensive AI hub serving three core domains: environmental monitoring through EcoGuardian AI, civic governance via TownOracle, and workforce development through the AI VoTech Pathway program in partnership with Northwest Florida State College. His leadership is grounded in place-based accountability—GSI remains deeply rooted in Santa Rosa Beach and Walton County, ensuring long-term commitment to community relationships and tangible local impact.

Douglas is a passionate advocate for ethical AI frameworks in nonprofit contexts. He demonstrates that mission-driven technology organizations can achieve measurable social outcomes while maintaining rigorous scientific standards and open-source accessibility. He regularly shares insights on AI governance, community technology, and ethical innovation through multiple channels, including the AI for Good: Transforming Communities GoodSam Podcast, available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Audacy.

Background & Credentials

Founder, Good Samaritan Institute (2002–Present)
Author and thought leader on nonprofit AI and community development
Patent holder: GOBsoft Think-Fast technology (asynchronous research-to-clinic communication)
Developer of EcoGuardian AI (environmental monitoring platform)
Creator of TownOracle (civic governance AI solution)
Partner in AI VoTech Pathway program with Northwest Florida State College
Host, AI for Good: Transforming Communities GoodSam Podcast
Advisor on open-source AI initiatives with HuggingFace

Get in Touch:
doug@goodsamaritaninstitute.org

Strategic Leadership

Advisory Board

Good Samaritan Institute's advisory board brings together expertise in artificial intelligence, nonprofit governance, environmental science, civic technology, and community development. Board members provide strategic guidance on organizational direction, partnerships, and mission alignment.

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Board Members

To be announced. GSI is currently identifying advisory board members with deep expertise in AI governance, environmental technology, and community impact.

Research & Innovation

Research Fellows

Good Samaritan Institute collaborates with research fellows who contribute to advancing applied AI solutions in environmental monitoring, civic governance, and workforce development. Fellows bring specialized expertise from academia, industry, and nonprofit sectors.

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Research Fellowship

Current and recent fellows focused on EcoGuardian AI, TownOracle development, and AI VoTech Pathway curriculum design. To be updated with fellow profiles.

Careers & Opportunities

Join Our Team

Good Samaritan Institute seeks talented professionals, researchers, and innovators committed to advancing applied AI for social good. We offer opportunities in software development, AI/ML engineering, environmental science, civic technology, education, and nonprofit operations.

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Open Positions

Current job openings and fellowship opportunities. Visit our careers page or contact us to learn about ways to contribute to GSI's mission.

Get in Touch About Opportunities

Organizational Leadership

Our Approach to Leadership

Good Samaritan Institute operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit with a commitment to transparent, accountable, and mission-driven governance. Our leadership model emphasizes place-based accountability, evidence-driven decision-making, and collaborative partnership across sectors.

Mission-Driven Leadership

Every strategic decision is evaluated against our core mission: advancing applied AI solutions for environmental monitoring, civic governance, and workforce training. We prioritize long-term impact over short-term growth.

Transparent Governance

GSI maintains clear governance structures, financial accountability, and stakeholder communication. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are committed to public transparency and evidence-based reporting on organizational outcomes.

Place-Based Accountability

Rooted in Santa Rosa Beach and Walton County, our leadership remains deeply invested in long-term community relationships and local accountability. Geographic commitment ensures authentic, sustained partnership with our neighbors.

Collaborative Partnership

We lead through the Good Samaritan Partner Network, bringing together specialized expertise in construction, science, technology, business, and government. Cross-sector collaboration strengthens our capacity and impact.

Equity & Inclusion

Our team and leadership reflect commitment to diverse perspectives, equitable opportunity, and inclusive decision-making. We believe diverse teams produce more innovative and resilient AI solutions.

Continuous Learning

GSI leadership maintains commitment to ongoing education in emerging AI technologies, governance best practices, and community development strategies. We model the learning culture we promote.

Leadership and Team at
Good Samaritan Institute