November 2009

Breakthrough Community,

It is with great enthusiasm that I join Breakthrough Cambridge as Executive Director.  I am honored to serve an exemplary organization undertaking the vitally important work of inspiring a love of learning, making college a reality for Cambridge youth, and developing the next generation of teachers.  This past year I have had the pleasure of serving as Interim Executive Director and Board Member at Breakthrough Cambridge.  In those capacities I developed a deep respect for this organization and its impact.

My entire career has been in the field of education, reflecting my passion for ensuring that all young people have access to high quality education.  I received my B.A. in education at Boston College and my M.A. at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.  Dual certified in elementary and special education, I taught at Neighborhood House Charter School in Dorchester, BELL (Building Educated Leaders for Life), and in various other settings.  Since leaving the classroom, I have continued working with children as a volunteer at Asian Task Force Against Domestic Violence and in the Boston Public Schools.

My most recent professional role was as Director of the Wellington Management Foundation and Wellington Management Company’s Philanthropy and Community Engagement Office.  The Foundation’s sole area of funding was academic programs for low-income youth, with particular focus on college access and out-of-school-time programming.  I was responsible for all aspects of the Foundation’s work, but certainly one of the most enjoyable elements of the job was visiting and getting to know dozens of top quality education programs across the country (including Breakthrough Atlanta and Philadelphia!).

I am excited to take an expanded role in the exceptionally strong Breakthrough community of talented staff, dedicated board, generous supporters, and fabulous students, teachers, and families.  I look forward to connecting with many of you individually in the near future.  Please don’t hesitate to contact me at espelman@cpsd.us or 617-349-6647 with any questions.

Best,

Elissa G. Spelman

Executive Director