Responsible AI Venture Council

L. Butterfield Ventures Announces Appointment of Lenai Butterfield, MBA, to the Responsible AI Venture Council at Santa Clara University

L. Butterfield Ventures is honored to announce that its Chairman and Executive Vice President for Human Capital Management and AI, Lenai Butterfield, MBA, has been appointed to the Responsible AI Venture Council (RAIVC) at Santa Clara University.

The Responsible AI Venture Council is an initiative of the Lucas Institute for Venture Ethics, in collaboration with the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics at Santa Clara University in Santa Clara, California. The council brings together a distinguished group of researchers, product developers, industry partners, founders, venture capitalists, and limited partners to develop a concise framework of ethical principles and practices guiding investment decisions in responsible artificial intelligence.

This framework will build upon the established foundation and expertise of the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics and will contribute to advancing responsible innovation within the global AI ecosystem.

“This appointment holds deep personal meaning for me,” said Lenai Butterfield. “My core values, along with more than two decades of experience as a global Fortune 50 executive within leading technology organizations, have been centered on ethics, governance, and the responsible application of technology at scale. To be recognized in this area is both meaningful and humbling and reflects a continued commitment to leading with integrity.”

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, the need for responsible development becomes increasingly critical. Innovation must be guided not only by capability, but by accountability, transparency, and thoughtful oversight.

“I look forward to contributing to conversations that shape how AI is developed and applied in ways that are responsible, sustainable, and aligned with the broader good,” Butterfield added. “It is a privilege to be part of a collective committed to ensuring that the future of technology reflects both progress and principle.”

A global technology executive, Lenai Butterfield’s work operates at the intersection of policy, digital transformation, workforce strategy, and regulatory governance. She has led high-performing teams and implemented enterprise-wide systems designed to drive scalability, innovation, and responsible growth across complex, multi-jurisdictional environments. Her experience includes contributions to early-stage artificial intelligence initiatives, including EY’s EYQ platform and IBM Watson.

Lenai Butterfield holds an MBA, a certification in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning from the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business, and a certification in international diplomacy and human rights through the United Nations (U.S. Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights). Her perspective continues to shape her commitment to advancing ethical frameworks that support both organizational performance and societal trust.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Lenai Butterfield, MBA
lenai@lenaibutterfield.com

www.lenaibutterfield.com