Erin Stark
NewSchools Venture Fund
New York, NY USA
"Innovating for a population that’s been underrepresented and underserved means that you’re paving a way forward and a future that has never been imagined."
Career Roadmap
Erin's work combines: Education, Non-Profit Organizations, and Helping People
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Day In The Life
Skills &
Education
Advice for getting started
When I was looking to make a career shift, I doubted whether I could transition to a philanthropic role, feeling unqualified without a research background. I had complicated feelings about philanthropy. But I trusted my intuition and embraced the opportunity because the organization's mission really felt right to me. I also realized my unique experiences as a teacher and advocate made me a great fit.
Here's the path I took:
High School
Bachelor's Degree
Psychology, General
State University of New York Oswego
Graduate Degree
Special Education and Teaching
LIU Brooklyn
Life & Career Milestones
I've taken a lot of twists and turns
1.
My life’s purpose was shaped early on by my younger sister, who overcame significant disabilities with the unwavering support of our family.
2.
I earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from SUNY Oswego.
3.
After college, I worked as an event planner—I learned important fundraising skills but ultimately felt called to work in education instead.
4.
Joining the New York City Teaching Fellows program in my late twenties, I discovered my calling in teaching special education in high schools.
5.
My perspective on accessibility, shaped by my sister’s journey, helped me see solutions where others saw barriers in education.
6.
After a decade in leadership, I transitioned to philanthropy and joined NewSchools Venture Fund.
Defining Moments
How I responded to discouragement
THE NOISE
Messages from Myself:
Philanthropy? I don't think that's for me. I don't belong in that field. It's too different from teaching.
How I responded:
When I was looking to make a career shift, I doubted whether I could transition to a philanthropic role, feeling unqualified without a research background. I had complicated feelings about philanthropy. But I trusted my intuition and embraced the opportunity because the organization's mission really felt right to me. I also realized my unique experiences as a teacher and advocate made me a great fit.