Frances Messano

Frances Messano is CEO of NewSchools Venture Fund, a venture philanthropy that builds a better education system by connecting people, resources, and ideas. As CEO, Frances brings her longstanding commitment to excellence and equity in education to life. Throughout her nine-year tenure, Frances has served as President, created the Diverse Leaders investment strategy, and led the Innovative Schools team. Before joining NewSchools, Frances was a Vice President at Teach for America and an Associate Partner at Monitor Institute, a social impact consulting group.

Frances, a first-generation college graduate, earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and A.B. from Harvard College. Her journey was profoundly influenced by nonprofits such as Prep for Prep, Management Leadership for Tomorrow, and Sponsors for Educational Opportunity that provided her with access to opportunity. Frances serves on the boards of Unidos US, Stand for Children, Pahara Institute and MLT, as well as the Tipping Point community leadership council. She is also a Pahara-Aspen Education Fellow.

Frances lives in San Francisco with her husband and their three children, who attend a NewSchools portfolio school. She loves singing and will always say yes to a karaoke night out.