Tracy founded STEP in 2002.  She brings over 30 years of teaching and expedition leadership experience to the organization.  Tracy obtained her doctorate of Oceanography from Scripps Institution of Oceanography in 1993.  Prior to STEP, she taught and led expedition-based programs with Sea Education Association, Columbia University, Long Island University, Semester at Sea, Outward Bound, and NOLS.  In 2002, Tracy turned her full attention to establishing STEP and remains deeply committed to providing low-income Arizona students and families with the knowledge, guidance, and advocacy skills to successfully navigate the pathway to a college degree. Tracy couldn't be prouder of STEP's 750+ pioneering alumni, who are emerging leaders in education, medicine, law, business, and the nonprofit sector, as well as within their communities and families.

Eileen McLeod - Senior Program Director

Eileen joined the STEP team in 2011 and brought years of experience in the experiential education world as well as with the public education system in Arizona. She also brought a passion for working with youth and helping them to reach their full potential. Prior to working for STEP, Eileen led wilderness expeditions throughout the southwest for Outward Bound. She also served as a full time substitute teacher for various high schools throughout southern Arizona. Eileen graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Kenyon College in Ohio and currently spends every moment that she isn’t working with her two amazing kids (and her husband and dogs).

Biridiana Rodriguez - Program Director

Biridiana (“Birdie”) Rodriguez joined STEP as a Program Manager in 2026. As a first-generation college graduate and daughter of immigrants, Birdie understands firsthand the challenges many students face while navigating the path to higher education. After graduating from Duke University, Birdie began her career as a classroom teacher, working with diverse student populations including multilingual learners and students from historically underserved communities. She later earned a master’s degree in Education Policy from the University of Pennsylvania and went on to work across school systems and nonprofit organizations focused on program evaluation, charter school authorizing, and expanding access to high-quality educational opportunities. Outside of work, she enjoys ballet, puzzles, and road trips with her partner and rescue pup.

Erica Work - Program Manager

Erica joined STEP in 2023 after relocating with her family to Arizona. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Intercultural Studies from BIOLA University and a master’s in Business Administration from Western Governors University. Throughout her diverse career, she spent time as an ESL teacher and community development coordinator. These experiences are what sparked her passion for working with cross-cultural students in helping them develop goals and dream BIG. She believes everyone has a right to education and should have equal opportunities to achieve their version of success. She is excited to support the future generation of history makers through STEP!

Gilma De Leon - Program Manager

Gilma joined STEP in 2026 after gaining experience in education as a graduate teaching assistant at Arizona State University and a private tutor serving Phoenix-area students. These experiences reinforced her commitment to education and highlighted, for her, the importance of personalized guidance in helping students succeed.  A proud STEP alum from the Class of 2019, Gilma brings a unique perspective to her role, having personally benefited from the guidance, mentorship, and opportunities STEP provides.  Gilma graduated with a bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences from Arizona State University.  In addition to her passion for education, Gilma is deeply interested in science and educating the public about ecology and conservation. She is dedicated to helping others better understand the natural world and inspiring future generations of learners and leaders.

Kristopher Seydel - Data Manager

Kris came to STEP in 2024 after holding roles with Phoenix Union High School District and College Depot at Phoenix Public Library, where he served as the researcher-architect of their college bound mentoring program for seniors. He has earned multiple degrees at Arizona State University, including a bachelor's in Spanish Language and Culture, a master's in Public Administration, and is near completing his doctorate in Education. While at College Depot, he revamped the data collection and analysis processes to free up other staff members to focus their time and energy on their students. He also served as an advisor, guiding students from all backgrounds to university pathways across the nation. In his free time, Kris enjoys traveling the globe, jogging, and hiking anywhere he can capture a beautiful sunset.