Washington, DC (July 1, 2026)­­­­—David Trulio has been named president of the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream (MCAAD) and executive vice president of the Milken Institute.

In this role, Trulio will oversee MCAAD’s vision, strategy, and operations as the Center builds on its momentum and broadens its impact. Located steps from the White House in Washington, DC, MCAAD uses interactive exhibits, research, in-person programs, and convenings, as well as digital content, to illuminate pathways to opportunity and upward mobility for all.

“MCAAD is a symbol of hope that demonstrates everyone, regardless of background or circumstances, should have a chance to pursue a life of meaning and purpose,” said Michael Milken, chairman of the Milken Institute and MCAAD. “David shares these beliefs and is uniquely suited to lead the Center as it promotes freedom and opportunity in its next phase of growth.”

“Since its opening in September 2025, the Center has been enthusiastically received by visitors from across the country and around the world, and I am delighted that David is joining us as we evolve the important work of advancing opportunity and upward mobility for all,” said Richard Ditizio, CEO of the Milken Institute. “David’s cross-sector experience and drive will amplify the tremendous efforts already in place and ensure excellence for both in-person and online audiences in the years to come.”

Trulio joins the Milken Institute with extensive leadership experience and accomplishments across the nonprofit, for-profit, and public sectors. Most recently, he was president and CEO of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, a globally recognized nonpartisan, nonprofit organization based in Simi Valley, CA, with a leading policy institute in Washington, DC. 

“The American Dream is a remarkably powerful inspiration across the United States and the world. Especially as the son of a naturalized citizen, I could not be more enthusiastic to lead a team dedicated to ensuring freedom, opportunity, and hope for all, regardless of background,” said Trulio. “It’s an absolute honor to join the world-class Milken Institute, and to lead the Center in its next chapter of reach and impact.” 

Prior to the Reagan Foundation, Trulio held leadership roles in the public sector at the Export-Import Bank of the United States, the Pentagon, and served as a Special Assistant to President George W. Bush at the White House. In the private sector he held leadership roles at Fox News Digital, Lockheed Martin International, and Raytheon Company.

About the Milken Institute and the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream  

The Milken Institute is a global nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life, with a focus on finance, health and philanthropy.

The Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, part of the Milken Institute, illuminates pathways to opportunity so that all may pursue a life of meaning and fulfillment. It is located in a restored historic building complex in Washington, DC, on Pennsylvania Avenue steps from the White House and across from the US Treasury.  

For more information, visit milkeninstitute.org and mcaad.org.