Emily McCann is a Social Entrepreneur and former CEO of Citizen Schools, a national nonprofit devoted to education equity. Prior to her role as CEO, Emily served as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, and President during her 13-year tenure with Citizen Schools. She played an instrumental role in launching new regions, building the organization’s infrastructure and overseeing growth strategy, business planning, and financial management. Under Emily’s leadership, Citizen Schools has served over 45,000 students and engaged 10,000 volunteers in its expanded day programs and has supported teachers and communities in offering Citizen Schools’ signature blend of mentorship and hands-on, real world learning to nearly 200,000 high-need students across 22 communities. Emily represents Citizen Schools on several Commissions and Advisory Boards, including the Aspen Institute’s National Commission on Social, Emotional, and Academic Development Partners’ Collaborative.

Prior to joining Citizen Schools, Emily worked as an Associate in Business Planning and Development for the Walt Disney Corporation, supporting the design and development of new cruise ships, resorts, and attractions for Disney’s leading theme park, Walt Disney World. Emily also served as an Associate in J.P. Morgan’s North American Chemicals Mergers & Acquisitions Department, where she supported the analysis and closure of multiple deals. Currently, Emily serves on several National Advisory Boards including Fiduciary Trust’s Charitable Foundation, Teach Plus, and Good Sports. She also serves as a member of Harvard Business School’s Social Impact Steering Committee and as a dedicated coach and volunteer in the Needham Public Schools.

Emily graduated cum laude with a degree in English Language and Literature from Harvard University in 1994 and earned an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School in 1999.

She lives in Needham, MA with her husband Sean, a secondary school history teacher, coach and admissions officer, and their four children.