Kim M. Pasculli-Festa, B.S., Ed.M
Kim M. Pasculli-Festa, B.S., Ed.M., is a Harvard-educated educator, published writer, and founding partner of Veritas Essay Coaching, where she helps students discover and amplify their authentic voices through storytelling. A first-generation college graduate, Kim has spent decades shaping students’ lives—from her early work in Paterson Public Schools to teaching middle school Language Arts in Oakland, New Jersey. Her own journey—from the “school of hard knocks” in Hoboken to studying at Boston University and earning her Ed.M. from Harvard—fuels her lifelong passion for writing, storytelling, and elevating student voices. Known for empathy, compassion, and attentive listening, Kim inspires trust, nurtures meaningful connections, and empowers others to thrive. As a published writer and certified AI educator, she emphasizes authentic storytelling, believing that a student’s lived experience is the key to transformational expression and success. At Veritas, Kim has guided countless students to find their voices, earning Veritas the recognition as the Top Essay Coaching Provider by Education Insider in 2026.
Beyond the classroom, Kim is an avid traveler, music lover, and lifelong learner, with Italy holding a special place in her heart. An entrepreneur at her core—from running a chocolate-chip cookie business to launching her essay consulting company—she brings energy, humor, and unwavering dedication to everything she does. At just five feet, Kim’s energy, confidence, and famous high heels send a clear message to her students: stand tall, own your voice, and step into your own light.
• Harvard University Graduate School of Education - Ed.M
• Boston University College of Communication-B.S.
• Top Essay Coaching Provider by Education Insider in 2026
• Essay chosen and featured by Maria Shriver for "The Shriver Report" in 2014
• Creative nonfiction and flash fiction selected for publication in the following anthologies: Nothing But the Truth So Help Me God: 73 Women on Life's Transitions; Door is a Jar literary magazine; Indigo Rising literary magazine
• Conference Keynote Speaker for New Jersey Educational Computing Cooperative, 2023
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to every single teacher and mentor who led me to understand the transformative power of an education, as well as the ability to trust my instincts in any given situation. Also, learning to surround myself with people who bring out the best in me has been critical in my success as well. Whether it is my husband, my three sons, friends or business partner, I am grateful for all those who have walked beside me and supported me in this journey.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
When I was navigating my professional career as a young mother, there was something an older mom told me that has forever been my guiding echo. She told me, "Never lose sight of who you are at your core. It is so easy to become lost in taking care of others, but remember to remind yourself of who you are and what you love to do. Do this, because when the nest becomes empty, you won't be unrecognizable to yourself." Those words have carried me through motherhood and my career, empowering me to understand that it is never too late to reinvent yourself or set your dreams in motion.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
The best career advice that I would give younger women is to always keep your heart at the center of all you do, and the rest will somehow fall into its rightful orbit.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is navigating a balance between the demands of professional life and who I am outside of that. Sometimes it's so hard to press the pause button and recharge, but it is essential in order to move forward.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
I am guided by a genuine passion for what I do, a strong work ethic rooted in courage, deep love and compassion for others, respect for myself, and an unwavering commitment to move through life with integrity, purpose, and intention.