Gersh Autism Academy Bronx is opening September! Learn More Here! 
At Gersh Autism Academy, leadership is more than just titles—it’s a commitment to excellence, compassion, and lifelong impact. Our executive team brings together decades of experience in education, operations, clinical care, and community building. Each member of our leadership team plays a vital role in shaping our programs, supporting our staff, and most importantly—creating opportunities for students on the autism spectrum to thrive. Together, we’re proud to lead a community where students are seen, supported, and empowered every day.
meet the team
kevin gersh
Founder
Founder of Gersh Autism Academy, Kevin has dedicated his life to creating environments where individuals on the autism spectrum can thrive. With a mission rooted in empowerment, compassion, and excellence, Kevin’s vision has shaped Gersh into a leader in autism education and services across the U.S. and beyond.
amy malmquist
Chief Executive Officer
Amy brings over 20 years of leadership experience in operations, business development, professional services, and international consulting. Her background spans wholesale distribution, SaaS sales, and training across the U.S. and Asia. As CEO, Amy leads the strategic vision for Gersh Autism Academy, focused on innovation, growth, and impact.
shiela fridman
Co-Founder of Gersh Autism Academy Puerto Rico
As Managing Partner of Gersh Academy Puerto Rico, Sheila Fridman has led the growth of the first bilingual autism school in the Caribbean into two thriving campuses serving over 200 students. With a master’s degree in education and a career dedicated to inclusion, she has spent more than a decade developing programs that empower students, families, and communities.
Jennifer Clement
Chief Education Officer
Dr. Jennifer Clement serves as Chief Education Officer for Gersh Autism, providing strategic leadership for the organization’s educational programs, school operations, and instructional excellence across its network of schools. With more than 25 years of experience in educational leadership, she has served as a CEO, executive leader, principal, and special educator, leading transformational growth across public and private education. Dr. Clement is passionate about developing exceptional leaders, strengthening school communities, and ensuring every student receives an individualized, high-quality educational experience. She holds a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University.
katherine gavritsas
Chief Human Resources Officer
Katherine brings over two decades of HR leadership experience, primarily in fintech and financial services. She holds a degree in Sociology from Hofstra University and has studied International Employment Law at Cornell. At Gersh, she leads people operations with a focus on culture, compliance, and team development.
Jeff Hooper
Chief Operating Officer
Jeff Hooper is a seasoned senior executive with deep expertise in operational refinement, sales effectiveness, C-suite coaching, and M&A. Jeff brings extensive experience in both PE-backed enterprises and Fortune 500 companies. During his tenure at Trident Care, he successfully navigated the company through three private equity ownership transitions. Prior to that, he served as Director of Operations for a $7 billion division of Cardinal Health. Prior to joining Gersh Autism Academy, Jeff founded Concilium Group, LTD a boutique consulting firm that catered to PE interests both inside and outside of the healthcare industry.
celeste gagliardi
Chief of Student Services
With a master’s degree in educational leadership and over 25 years in school administration, Celeste has been a driving force behind Gersh’s growth since joining in 2012. She led the expansion of the New York program from 59 to over 200 students and played a key role in opening campuses in Puerto Rico and Washington State. Celeste now works closely with families and their advocates to ensure each student’s program aligns with their unique needs