LEADERSHIP
Executive Director
Michele Weisman founded Meet the Writers, Inc. after 25 years engaged in product development with some of the most respected names in children’s publishing, including Sesame Workshop, Time For Kids, and Highlights for Children. Meet the Writers reflects Michele’s deep commitment to promoting education and literacy for all students. Michele also serves on Bank Street College Children’s Book Committee.
Programming Associate
Brittany Jarvis is the Children’s Book Specialist at Powerhouse Bookstores where she also runs a virtual middle grade Lit Camp that connects children with authors from around the world. Brittany is currently working toward her Masters in Education to further share her love of literacy.
Development Associate
Simone Messer has worked in grant writing and development for nonprofits across NYC, specializing in organizations that combat socioeconomic barriers to access around arts and literacy. Simone holds a BA in English from Bates College and appreciates getting to share the power and joys of literacy with young people all over the city.
Board of Directors
Andrew Gutelle is a writer, editor, and editorial consultant with extensive experience creating engaging, educational, award-winning content for children. Andrew received three Emmy nominations for his work on Reading Rainbow. He was Editorial Director at Sesame Workshop and then worked for Highlights for Children where eight book clubs he started reach millions of children.
Susan Silbermann is passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion with three decades of global healthcare leadership, from product development to operational governance to crisis management. She currently sits on an advisory board at the Harvard School of Public Health and two biotech boards. Susan received the Woman of Moral Courage Award from Auburn Seminary and was named a Financial Times OUTstanding Leader.
Jennifer Weiss has been in the field of public health for over 15 years. Currently she consults for New York-based nonprofits on public health policy, advocacy, and education relating to workplace wellness, chronic disease management, long term health care, and nutrition. In addition to her public health work, Jennifer is an entrepreneur and a writer.
Author & Illustrator Advisory Board
Peter Brown
Ruth Chan
Adam Gidwitz
Tiffany D. Jackson
Brendan Kiely
Betsy Lewin
Daniel José Older
Ibi Zoboi
“Kids ask questions, learn more about the author’s purpose and motivation for writing, and learn more about the writing experience. It’s made reading personal!”
— Kyle Brillante, Principal
