Playworks Executive and Leadership Team

Elizabeth Cushing, the Chief Executive Officer at Playworks, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Cushing manages the expansion of play-based programs across North American school districts to improve student engagement and social-emotional development. By aligning internal resources with the mission of creating safe, inclusive play environments, the Chief Executive Officer ensures long-term sustainability for the non-profit. Elizabeth Cushing maintains active communication with the Board to secure funding and partnerships that support national growth. This leadership role involves evaluating program efficacy and scaling initiatives to reach diverse student populations. Through rigorous oversight of organizational health, the Chief Executive Officer drives the impact of play in education. Cushing prioritizes the development of scalable models that empower educators to facilitate positive student interactions. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer secures the future of the organization by championing the necessity of play in every child's daily learning experience.

Satoshi Steimetz, the Chief Financial Officer at Playworks, manages the fiscal health and budgetary planning for the organization. Steimetz oversees the allocation of resources to support the implementation of play-based programs across various regional markets. By monitoring revenue streams and operational expenditures, the Chief Financial Officer ensures the financial stability required to sustain non-profit activities. Satoshi Steimetz collaborates with the executive team to forecast funding needs and optimize cost-efficiency in program delivery. This leadership role involves managing audits, financial reporting, and compliance with regulatory standards. Through precise financial modeling, the Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of services into new territories. Steimetz directs the financial strategy to maximize the reach of the organization's mission. By maintaining transparent fiscal practices, the Chief Financial Officer builds trust with donors and stakeholders. Ultimately, Steimetz provides the economic foundation necessary for the organization to continue creating environments where children learn and grow.

Michelle Serrano, the President at Playworks, oversees the daily operational execution and program delivery across the organization. Serrano directs the implementation of play-based curricula to ensure high-quality outcomes for students in various regional markets. By coordinating between departments, the President maintains operational efficiency and alignment with the core mission of fostering healthy school environments. Michelle Serrano manages the professional development of staff members who facilitate play programs in schools. This leadership role involves optimizing internal processes to support the scaling of services nationwide. Through active management of program logistics, the President ensures that the organization meets its goals for student engagement and social-emotional growth. Serrano evaluates operational performance to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation. By driving excellence in service delivery, the President strengthens the organization's reputation as a leader in educational support. Ultimately, Serrano ensures that the mission of creating environments for children to learn and grow remains the central focus of all operations.

Mitchell Kershner, the Founder & Chief Marketing Officer at Playworks, architects the brand identity and public outreach strategy for the organization. Kershner drives awareness regarding the importance of play in educational settings to attract partners and supporters across the country. By crafting compelling narratives about the impact of social-emotional learning, the Founder & Chief Marketing Officer expands the reach of the organization's mission. Mitchell Kershner manages digital campaigns and media relations to highlight the success of play-based programs in diverse school environments. This leadership role involves coordinating with regional teams to ensure consistent messaging and brand alignment. Through strategic marketing initiatives, the Founder & Chief Marketing Officer increases visibility among educators and school administrators. Kershner analyzes market trends to refine communication strategies that resonate with key stakeholders. By promoting the value of play, the Founder & Chief Marketing Officer secures the support needed to sustain long-term growth and influence within the educational sector.