Presence Appoints Jess Wang as New CEO Amid Leadership Changes for Innovative Special Education Solutions

Leadership Change at Presence

New York, November 12, 2026 — Presence, a frontrunner in K–12 special education technology and teletherapy services, has made a significant announcement marking a pivotal leadership transition in the company. Jess Wang has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), succeeding Kate Eberle Walker, who will now serve as the Executive Chair of the Board of Directors. This change signifies a new chapter for Presence as it aims to expand its reach and better serve schools in need of trusted special education support.

Wang, previously the Chief Operating Officer since 2024, carries a wealth of experience and deep insights into the company's operations. Her long-standing relationships with clients, clinicians, and familiarity with the sector position her well to lead Presence into the future. "The need for reliable special education services has never been more critical, given the ongoing staffing shortages and administrative pressures facing schools today," Wang stated. "Presence is uniquely equipped to meet these challenges with our dedicated team, cutting-edge technology, and a clear commitment to enhancing educational outcomes for students with special needs."

Experienced Leadership for a Complex Landscape

Wang’s extensive background spans multiple aspects of education, technology, and workforce development. She began as a high school social studies teacher, later moving on to senior leadership roles at education technology company 2U, Inc., where she managed large teams and launched significant educational programs. Her expertise allows her to see the challenges faced by schools and educators, thus providing her with a unique perspective on how to best address the needs of students.

"With additional responsibilities and fewer resources, schools are facing immense pressure to provide quality education for every student," Wang explained. She emphasized the importance of having partners who understand these challenges and can provide comprehensive support through innovative technology solutions. Under her leadership, Presence will forge ahead with a focus on effectively integrated services that truly serve the needs of students and educators.

A Legacy of Growth and Innovation

Succession to the CEO position comes after eight remarkable years under Walker’s guidance, during which Presence evolved into a leading entity in the special education arena. Walker’s efforts included expanding the company's footprint across the nation, investing in key technologies, and acquiring firms that enhanced Presence’s capabilities. Currently, Presence collaborates with over 11,000 schools in 47 states and boasts a network of more than 2,000 licensed clinicians, having conducted over 8 million remote evaluations and teletherapy sessions.

Walker reflected on her tenure, stating, "Leading Presence through these years of growth has been a true honor. I am proud of what we accomplished together and excited about Jess taking the helm. She is the right leader to carry forward our mission of supporting students with special needs."

Focus on Innovation and Technology Integration

As CEO, Wang attends to overseeing the advancement of Presence's technology strategy while emphasizing customer service to schools and students. Innovations in technology are crucial, addressing administrative burdens while enhancing collaborative efforts between educators and clinicians. Recently, Presence announced the promotion of Felipe Murillo to Chief Technology Officer, signifying its commitment to developing secure and scalable technology solutions that align with the needs of its partners.

With continuing support from investors and an experienced leadership team, Presence appears poised to expand its growth trajectory and navigate the complex landscape of special education service delivery effectively. Wang’s vision delineates an encouraging path forward for both the organization and the students it serves.

About Presence: Since its inception in 2009, Presence has been instrumental in assisting schools with meeting the diverse special education and mental health needs of their students. By providing access to a vast network of licensed clinicians equipped with award-winning technology, Presence aims to ensure that educational support is accessible to all, regardless of location. Through innovative approaches and steadfast commitment, Presence continues to make lasting impacts on the lives of students and professionals in the field of special education.