September 2, 2025

Local Educator Recognized as School Hero for Impactful Leadership

News Summary

Maura Spignesi, an educator at Fontbonne, The Early College of Boston, has been named a local school hero for her remarkable contributions in leadership and fundraising efforts. Under her guidance, the school raised nearly $2.1 million, promoting financial assistance for students. Spignesi has expanded the school’s offerings and founded the Patricia Cerasuolo Girls’ Leadership Institute, showcasing her commitment to inclusivity and female empowerment. Additionally, she has engaged in community service initiatives, reflecting her dedication to nurturing the next generation and supporting families in need.

Boston – Maura Spignesi, a dedicated educator at Fontbonne, The Early College of Boston, has been honored as a local school hero in recognition of her significant contributions and leadership at the institution.

During the past year, under Spignesi’s stewardship, Fontbonne successfully raised nearly $2.1 million, with a portion of the funds specifically allocated for financial assistance to students. This initiative is aimed at fostering an equitable educational environment, enhancing access to resources for a diverse student body.

Currently, Fontbonne boasts a diverse student population, with 49% of the students identified as BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color), reflecting the school’s commitment to inclusivity and representation.

In 2021, Spignesi played a crucial role in expanding the school’s offerings by incorporating 7th and 8th grades. What began as a program with only seven students has now blossomed into a thriving initiative with 60 students enrolled, showcasing Spignesi’s capacity for growth and development in educational leadership.

Further cementing her legacy, Spignesi founded the Patricia Cerasuolo Girls’ Leadership Institute, which launched in 2024. This program aims to empower young girls to pursue their aspirations, emphasizing the importance of leadership and self-confidence in the next generation of female leaders.

Maura Spignesi is recognized not just for her commitment to Fontbonne and its students but also for her passion for the mission of all-girls education. With over 20 years of experience at Fontbonne, she has consistently demonstrated her dedication to instilling the school’s values and fostering a nurturing environment for learning.

Beyond her academic role, Spignesi founded a nonprofit organization after experiencing the loss of her son. This organization provides vital resources and support to families navigating the heart-wrenching grief of losing a child during pregnancy or early infancy. An annual candlelight ceremony is held to honor these lost children, where Fontbonne students contribute by creating hand-painted votives. This event has transcended local boundaries, gaining international recognition through social media platforms, helping to spread awareness and provide solace to families in similar situations.

In addition to her nonprofit work, Maura Spignesi volunteers for an organization called A Simple Gesture and actively coaches a youth girls’ basketball team, further extending her influence in the community and promoting positive youth development.

Each year, she organizes service projects in memory of a young boy from her community who passed away from brain cancer. These projects are designed to contribute to his lasting legacy through various charitable initiatives, showing her commitment to both her students and her community.

Described with words such as resilient, selfless, and dedicated, Maura Spignesi exemplifies the ideal qualities of an educator and community leader. Her multi-faceted contributions to Fontbonne and beyond reflect a profound commitment to nurturing the next generation and empowering those around her.

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Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER

BOSTON STAFF WRITER The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.