Rev. Dr. Mae Elise Cannon is the executive director of Churches for Middle East Peace and an ordained pastor in the Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC). Cannon holds an MDiv from North Park Theological Seminary, an MBA from North Park University’s School of Business and Nonprofit Management, and an MA in bioethics from Trinity International University. She received her first doctorate in American History with a minor in Middle Eastern studies at the University of California (Davis) focusing on the history of the American Protestant church in Israel and Palestine and her second doctorate in Ministry in Spiritual Formation from Northern Theological Seminary. She is the author of several books including the award-winning Social Justice Handbook: Small Steps for a Better World and editor of A Land Full of God: Christian Perspectives on the Holy Land. Her work has been highlighted in The New York Times, The Washington Post, CNN, Chicago Tribune, Christianity Today, Leadership Magazine, The Christian Post, Jerusalem Post, EU Parliament Magazine, Huffington Post, and other international media outlets.

Jennifer is a Ph.D. candidate in Bible and Cultures at Drew University, where she also earned her M.A. Her research focuses on how biblical interpretation and archeology have shaped the contemporary land of Palestine-Israel and its geopolitics. She is a member of the UCC Church and is committed to fostering interfaith and intercultural community education and dialogue around sacred texts, the earth, and politics. Jennifer is grateful to have the opportunity to utilize and grow these passions, previously as a fellow and now as a staff member with CMEP.

Harold Cromartie holds a Bachelor's in Business Administration degree with a major in Accounting from Southeastern University. He has worked in the nonprofit sector for 37 years, working for organizations that focus on social justice issues, such as homelessness, effective treatment of severe mental illness, substance abuse treatment, rental assistance, food distribution, HIV/AIDS prevention and education, and transportation safety (eliminating fatalities and severe injuries to travelers). Some of the organizations that he has worked with or volunteered at over the years have been; Ark of Refuge, San Francisco, Ca; Metro Teen AIDS, WDC, National Association for Environmental Education, WDC; National Association for City and County Health Officials, WDC; Community Action Group, WDC, Washington Area Bicycle Association, WDC; Hostage US, WDC, Treatment Advocacy Center, Arlington, VA; and Arlington Thrive, Arlington, VA.

Adysen holds a bachelors in Global Studies from Georgia State University. She has spent extended time in the Middle East, including Jordan, Palestine, and Egypt, studying Arabic as well as the Arab-Israeli conflict. Adysen began as an advocacy intern at CMEP and transitioned to Trip Coordinator. She is delighted to be a part of people experiencing the Middle East for themselves. 

Christine previously worked in different industries such as philanthropic and development organizations, fundraising and grant management roles, and a venture capital firm. She worked with NGOs, Religious Ministries, and 500 Global. She is actively involved in civic engagement activities in Egypt and globally. Her driving force is to shape a better future for those struggling and in need.