GEM Announces New Executive Director

GEM Announces Sarah Morgenstern as its New Executive Director and Mary Lee as Board Chair

GEM is pleased to announce two significant leadership appointments that mark a pivotal moment in the organization’s journey. Sarah Morgenstern has been appointed as the new Executive Director, and current Board member Mary Lee will assume the role of Board Chair, succeeding GEM Founder Rochelle de Goias-Jackman, who will step into an advisory role.

These leadership changes signal a renewed focus on growth, innovation and impact, ensuring GEM continues to thrive in its mission of empowering girls to achieve their academic and career potential.

After an extensive and thoughtful search process, Sarah Morgenstern was selected to take over Executive Director responsibilities from Sherry Parsley, who has been serving in the role on an interim basis since June 2024. Sarah brings a wealth of experience as a management consultant, entrepreneur, strategic advisor and nonprofit leader. Sarah has extensive board and advisory experience and a proven track record of leading teams, forging partnerships and driving operational excellence. 

“I’d like to thank Sherry for her leadership over the past 5 months and welcome Sarah to the GEM family.  I believe Sarah is the leader and growth-driver the organization has been looking for.” said de Goias-Jackman.

Sarah’s first official day with GEM will be Jan 13, 2025.

“It’s an honor to step into this role at such an exciting moment for GEM,” said Sarah Morgenstern, “I’m looking forward to building upon GEMs incredible legacy, and elevating the collective impact we have on girls well into the future.”

In tandem with the Executive Director announcement, GEM also welcomes Mary Lee as its new Chair of the Board. Not only is Mary a seasoned leader with more than 30 years of diverse management experience, she is also a longstanding advocate of GEM having been a member of the board since 2016. Mary brings critical expertise to help guide this next chapter of growth for GEM.   “I am excited to work with Sarah and the board to explore expansion opportunities, empowering more young women to achieve their career dreams!” said Lee.

Rochelle de Goias-Jackman, who founded GEM and has served as Board Chair since its inception in 2012, will become Chair Emeritus and Board Advisor. This transition allows de Goias-Jackman to continue contributing her expertise and deep knowledge to the organization while empowering new leadership to drive new opportunities for growth.

“This is an exciting next step in GEM’s journey, and I’m confident in the new leadership’s ability to inspire us to create even greater impact.” said de Goias-Jackman. “As Founder, I will forever be GEM’s biggest champion. I couldn’t be prouder of how far we’ve come and I’m excited to see what’s next.”