Leadership Team

At the heart of Hilltop Communities is Dr. Roseanne Esposito, a leader whose dedication to education and personal growth is rooted in empathy and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Dr. Esposito’s approach is about genuinely understanding and connecting with the individuals and communities she serves, beyond just expertise and qualifications.

With over three decades in education, Dr. Esposito has been driven by a desire to help others realize their potential. Her career began with a deep belief in education’s transformative power, guiding her from her early days as a Special Education Teacher to her role as the visionary founder of Hilltop Communities. Her personal experience as an educator and a mother of four, coupled with her expertise in social-emotional learning and trauma-informed practices, means she provides both knowledge and the care essential for true transformation.

Dr. Esposito’s commitment extends internationally, particularly through her impactful work in Honduras, where she has worked alongside local educators, teaching and supporting students. Her time there has strengthened her connection to the community and deepened her understanding of the unique challenges and aspirations of the people there. Whether in the U.S. or Honduras, she believes that trust is built through genuine connection and takes the time to listen, understand, and tailor programs that meet the unique needs of each individual and community.

At Hilltop Communities, her goal is to create a supportive environment where everyone feels valued, understood, and empowered to grow. Whether working with children, educators, or entire communities, Dr. Esposito’s mission remains the same: to foster transformation through connection, trust, and shared purpose.

Rick is a skilled landscape architect and architectural designer who brings a distinctive combination of engineering design expertise, technical precision, and cultural awareness to Hilltop Communities. His work is dedicated to creating eco-friendly, nature-integrated spaces that inspire and uplift communities in both Honduras and the United States.

Rick’s approach extends beyond traditional design, integrating indigenous practices to promote harmony with the land and foster deeper connections to nature. His engineering design background ensures that every project is both innovative and sustainable, meeting the practical needs of the community while respecting the environment.

Through his leadership in outdoor nature programs, Rick advances sustainable growth and environmental education, offering participants an opportunity to engage meaningfully with their surroundings. His dedication to building resilient, nature-centered spaces continues to leave a transformative impact on the individuals and communities Hilltop serves.Through outdoor nature Globally, Rick has a deep-rooted connection to Honduras, built over years of dedicated service and trusted relationships within the community. Known for his respect and understanding of local culture, Rick has become a valued and respected figure among the people he serves. His work reflects a genuine commitment to the well-being and growth of the community, making him not only a partner but also a trusted friend to many in Honduras."

Charles Romano is an educational psychologist with a specialization in school psychology and serves as our lead Educational Researcher and data collection expert. His role is pivotal in ensuring our programs are evidence-based, data-driven, and implemented with fidelity to achieve meaningful outcomes.

With extensive experience working with students diagnosed with Autism and other developmental disabilities, Charles combines practical expertise with a commitment to innovation. He is currently enhancing his skill set through training in applied behavior analysis, further strengthening his ability to support students and families effectively.

Charles’s research focuses on bullying intervention and prevention, developing systems to support at-risk students, and designing strategies for learners with Autism and other developmental challenges. His dedication to rigorous data collection drives the continuous improvement of our programs and ensures they remain impactful and results-oriented.

In addition to his research, Charles provides parent trainings and consultations, equipping families with the tools and strategies needed to foster their children's success. His expertise and passion make him an essential contributor to our mission of creating transformative educational experiences.

Join Us in Transforming Lives

When you choose Hilltop Communities, you're not just enrolling in a program—you’re becoming part of a compassionate community led by dedicated and experienced leaders who are committed to your growth and success. Our vision is to inspire and empower you to achieve your fullest potential, no matter where you start. Come meet our team and discover how Hilltop Communities can help you or your loved ones thrive.