
Caryl Harris
Executive Director
Caryl Harris co-founded Avery’s Hope with her husband Eric. Named for their beautiful, and beautifully rare, grandson.
Caryl holds an M.A. in English Literature from Rutgers University and has an A.B.A. from the Department of Education.
Caryl is a member of the National Organization for Rare Disorders and is a representative for Avery’s Hope with the EveryLife Foundation for Rare Diseases, and the Global Genes Rare Patient Alliance. She serves on the Patient Senate for Patients Rising Now. Caryl is also a Founding Member of WRAP – Worldwide Rare Advocacy Partnership.
Caryl is an avid cyclist, an artist, a wife, a mom to three amazing young men, and “Ya Ya” to 4 grandsons.

Carie Chester
Carie Chester was born and raised in NJ, where she lives today with her beloved husband, Pete, and dog, Bubba. They are the light of her life.
Carie holds a B.A. in Elementary Education from Clemson University (Go Tigers!).
Carie worked for the Association of Certified Professional Accountants from 2005 – 2023 as the operational lead for ADA accommodations for CPA Exam candidates. She joined the National Board of Medical Examiners (NBME) in 2023 as the Manager of Disability to help ensure NBME fulfills examinee accommodations under the ADA. Creating a fair and equitable experience for those requiring accommodations and advocating for those who need a voice are her passions.
In her free time, Carie enjoys exploring her two river towns, traveling, working out, and spending as much time with friends and family as possible.

Eric Harris
Eric Harris received his BS in Business Administration at SUNY Albany in 1979 and his MSW from Rutgers School of Social Work in 1981. He is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.
Eric has been employed with Family and Community Services of Somerset County in various capacities since 1981. His titles included mental health and family clinician, Clinical Supervisor, Clinical Director and in 1994 he became Executive Director.
Eric has also spent the last 25 years coaching youth sports. He and his wife Caryl have been married for 33 years and have 3 adult sons and Avery is their first grandson.