Meet The Team

Dr. Candace Finley, Founder and Executive Director

Candace was born in Orlando, FL and raised in Ocala, FL. She received a Bachelor of Biology from Stillman College, a Master of Biotechnology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Doctor of Education in STEM Education K-8 from Nova Southeastern University. Shortly after understanding how the pharmaceutical industry profits off of consumers, she left the field and began teaching Anatomy and Biology at Bethune Cookman University. Since 2011, her passion for closing the gap in education among minorities geared her towards teaching in the public school system as well leading STEM instruction and program development for The Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community, Inc. ZORA! STEM program. Currently she is pursuing her dream career of being in eSTEAMed Learning, Inc fulltime while building her businesses.

Board of Directors

Tiffany Simmons, Director of Logistics and Operations

Tiffany is 4th generation Eatonvillian and Air Force veteran who initially learned logistics while in the Air Force. With over 18 years in logistics, organizing comes naturally for her as she works with confidence and agility to ensure a wonderful experience for all. Tiffany has visited over 30 countries and lived in 6 of them. Her friendly, reassuring nature and in-depth knowledge of diverse travel destinations make her an invaluable asset for travelers. In addition to organizing trips to various world destinations, Tiffany is a world-schooling mom who enjoys yoga, swimming, Soca music and family time.

Lavar Akins, Director of Finance

David Thomas, Director of Human Resources

Maria Martinelli, Grant Writer

Maria has been a member of the Orlando community for the last five years, originally hailing from Michigan. She received a Bachelors of Biology from University of Detroit Mercy and a Masters of Medical Sciences from the University of Florida. Since, she has worked in academic laboratories, with an emphasis in molecular biology. Throughout her time in the lab, she developed a passion for science writing. She is excited to combine her love for writing and community. Maria spends her free time exploring the Orlando food scene with her wife and spending time with her two dogs, cat and snake.