Who We Are

Our People

Jesse Friedman

Associate Consultant
Jesse Friedman

Jesse is an Associate Consultant on the Outstanding Educators team where he leads research and manages projects related to educator diversity, support and development, and school leadership. He is a dedicated advocate for education equity and believes a talented and diverse teacher workforce is part of the foundation for student achievement. 

Prior to joining Education First, Jesse was a Philanthropy Fellow at the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation in Detroit where he supported grantmaking and strategic initiatives for its Youth Sports and Recreation, Afterschool and Early Childhood focus areas. He also spent time as an educator and youth development professional leading academic, literacy and leadership programs for middle school students at an out-of-school time nonprofit. 

Jesse earned his BA in Political Science and a secondary teaching certificate from the University of Michigan (Go blue!). He also holds a Master’s in Library and Information Science from Wayne State University. Outside of work, Jesse enjoys going on a daily walk, rooting for Detroit sports and the Michigan Wolverines, and attending concerts.

Jesse's Expertise

Grantmaking Strategy and Effectiveness

Research, Program Analysis & Program Strategy

Educator Preparation

Funders Collaboratives

Implementation Support

Jesse's Favorite Card Games

Euchre

Rummy

Cribbage

Jesse likes


Tigers game with my mom.

Finn, my family’s German Shorthaired Pointer!