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Full Breakdown

Caroline Ellison Hired by Manifund to Guide Philanthropic Platform

By Drooid · · How we work

Core Event

Ellison began a work-trial on July 13 and converted to a full-time role on August 10.

Background and Prior Conviction

Ellison, 31, pleaded guilty in December 2022 to seven counts of fraud and conspiracy for misusing FTX customer funds to cover Alameda’s losses. She testified against FTX founder Sam Bankman-Fried, received a two-year prison sentence, and was released from federal custody in January 2023. Since her release, she kept a low profile until the Manifund hiring was disclosed.

Official Statements & Responses

He added that the nonprofit will judge her by current performance rather than past actions. In a follow-up post, Chen apologized for using the pseudonym “Carol” while Ellison published work anonymously, acknowledging a lapse in transparency but asserting that pseudonymous work is “relatively common” for well-known individuals.

Criticism & Opposition

Public reaction was mixed. One commenter praised the move as a step toward forgiveness, while another warned that the decision could damage the reputation of Manifund and the broader effective-altruism community.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “I love a world where we normalize forgiveness and deep understanding of each other beyond hot takes and headlines. Hope the collaboration works out well!” — Another