The Search for Stability
For Yesi Sevilla, stability was always an elusive promise—one that countless professionals have chased in an era of layoffs and corporate restructuring. Despite years of dedication to major companies, she came to realize that success in the traditional sense didn’t always equate to security, nor did it guarantee fulfillment. But what did? Guiding others. She found her true calling not in climbing the corporate ladder, but in steadying it for those who came after her.
A Passion for Mentorship
Her passion for mentorship led her to higher education, where she began shaping the next generation of entrepreneurs. At the University of Florida, she played a pivotal role in developing their innovation curriculum, equipping students with the skills and confidence to bring their ideas to life. Later, at Vanderbilt’s Wond’ry Center, she expanded her impact even further, designing a program specifically for budding entrepreneurs taking their first steps. For years, she has devoted herself to helping others build something lasting—not just businesses, but resilience, vision, and the courage to navigate uncertainty.
Stepping Into New Territory: Joining Chalk
But after decades of guiding others, Yesi knew it was time to take her own leap. At 53, she is stepping into uncharted territory—not as a mentor, but as a leader in a new venture. With extensive research backing her vision, she is now the CEO of Chalk, a groundbreaking company redefining early childhood education.
Revolutionizing Early Childhood Education
Yesi’s new venture tackles an issue long overlooked: the way preschool teachers design and deliver their programs. Traditional models of curriculum development for ages 0-6 often rely on outdated structures, failing to evolve with the latest insights in child development and engagement. Through Chalk, she aims to revolutionize how teachers craft their lessons, equipping them with innovative tools and strategies to foster creativity, curiosity, and holistic learning in young children.
Courage to Embrace a New Role
Stepping into a leadership role at Chalk after years of working within structured institutions requires a different level of courage. At 53, Yesi is navigating a new chapter, one that builds on her extensive background in mentorship and innovation. She is ready to lead the charge in rethinking early childhood education, with the research and the need clearly in place. Her wealth of experience has prepared her to make a lasting impact through Chalk’s work, and she is eager to contribute to its mission.
Story authored by Brooke Mayer, a senior at Vanderbilt University double majoring in Human & Organizational Development and English, with a strong interest in entrepreneurship, consulting, and a passion for sharing people’s stories.
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