Our Team

  • Monica Ahearn, Parent Advocate

    Monica has spent her entire career advocating for children in private and public school settings. As a Teacher, LDT/C, Principal, and Director of Special Services, she has fought tirelessly for her students to receive the best education possible in the most appropriate settings.

    Monica also volunteers as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) to be the voice of children in the Foster Care System who need an advocate.

    Monica earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Felician University, a Master’s Degree in Special Education from Fairleigh Dickinson University and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership through the NJ Excel Program. Monica is a member of the Council for Exceptional Children, as well as the Council for Parent Attorneys and Advocates (COPAA).

  • Maureen Kerne, Parent Consultant

    Maureen Kerne is a true advocate for all children. She has sought out inclusivity from a young age, seeing the positive effects that an inclusive environment provided for her own sister. Maureen went on to pursue her vocation in education, building her career on the core belief that all children and young adults deserve an educational environment that preserves their human dignity. From teacher to administrator, Maureen created and implemented multiple programs that provided children and their families with access to the newest and most innovative ideas in education in both New York and New Jersey. Every decision she makes is child-centered and focused on providing opportunities for the learner to develop and grow in independence. When not advocating for the rights of children, Maureen enjoys spending time reading, swimming, and traveling to any place she can find a beach.

  • Katherine Kelly, Executive Director

    As an Executive Director, Katherine brings over a decade of expertise in Marketing and Communications, specializing in amplifying the impact of organizations dedicated to social good. Her proficiency spans web and print content development, public speaking, and project management. A tech-savvy strategist, Katherine is renowned for her exceptional writing and editing skills, seamlessly integrating various communication solutions and technologies to drive organizational objectives. With a steadfast dedication to excellence, she excels in multitasking, prioritization, and project completion, consistently delivering on ambitious goals. Katherine's independence and self-motivation shine through in her ability to foster positive relationships with clients and colleagues across all levels of the organization, making her an invaluable asset to any team striving for meaningful impact.

Board of Directors


Christina Fam Faragalla


Denise Verzella


Heather Kumor, Secretary


Jon Pessah


Judith Gran


Julie Kennedy


Katherine Kelly, Executive Director


Mandeep Kwatra


Vera Piasecki, Board Chair


Dr. Priya Lalvani


Rose Cali