Our Team

Each person at ESP Boston brings a unique set of skills and experience to their work. Every member of our founding team is a Boston Public Schools parent.

Emily Pierce

Founder & Executive Director

Emily is a community connector and a passionate advocate for public education. Guided by her experiences as a history teacher, youth mentor, and program manager, Emily helps school leaders build and sustain meaningful partnerships on behalf of their students and families.

Frances Blair

Program Director

Frances is a Boston native and BPS graduate who is passionate about equity in public education and brings a personal connection to her work. She supports coordination between schools and program partners, drawing on her background in client operations to bring a collaborative, detail-oriented approach to ESP’s mission.

Jane Farrington

Operations Director

Jane is team oriented and a strong supporter of public education. Her experience in health care with special needs children, as well as in the educational nonprofit sector, has shaped her commitment to collaboration, organization, and behind-the-scenes support at ESP.

Sarah Wharton

Development Director

Sarah believes deeply in community support of public education and is committed to ensuring all students have access to meaningful enrichment opportunities. Drawing on her prior experiences in the private sector and volunteer fundraising, she advances ESP’s mission through development, marketing and internal support.

Alicia Erickson

Special Projects

Alicia has seen firsthand the impact of a strong BPS education and is committed to ensuring all students have access to the opportunities they deserve. Drawing on her background in marketing and volunteer leadership in educational nonprofits and public schools, she supports the ESP team through special projects.

Jamie Gemelli

Finance Director

Jamie is a lifelong Boston resident and founder of an accounting firm serving local nonprofits and small businesses. With a passion for community engagement and relationship building, she is dedicated to helping organizations grow, operate efficiently, and maximize their impact. Jamie takes pride in supporting the people and programs that make Boston a stronger, more vibrant city.