SAVE THE DATE! eSTEAMed Day 2025 Oct 18th, 11am-5pm at Robinswood Middle School

  • Home
  • What Is STEAM?
  • Our Team
  • eSTEAMed Event Calendar
  • eSTEAMed Day
  • Seasonal Programs
  • The Historic Thomas House
  • eSTEAMed Services
  • 1887 Community Fridge
  • 1887 Juneteenth
  • STEAM Careers
  • STEAM Resources
  • Donate
  • Contact Us
  • More
    • Home
    • What Is STEAM?
    • Our Team
    • eSTEAMed Event Calendar
    • eSTEAMed Day
    • Seasonal Programs
    • The Historic Thomas House
    • eSTEAMed Services
    • 1887 Community Fridge
    • 1887 Juneteenth
    • STEAM Careers
    • STEAM Resources
    • Donate
    • Contact Us

  • Home
  • What Is STEAM?
  • Our Team
  • eSTEAMed Event Calendar
  • eSTEAMed Day
  • Seasonal Programs
  • The Historic Thomas House
  • eSTEAMed Services
  • 1887 Community Fridge
  • 1887 Juneteenth
  • STEAM Careers
  • STEAM Resources
  • Donate
  • Contact Us

Meet The Team

Dr. Candace Finley, Founder and Executive Director

Dr. Candace Finley was born in the vibrant city of Orlando, Florida, and raised in the serene city of Ocala, Florida. Her academic journey began at Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology. Driven by a passion for scientific exploration, she pursued a Master’s degree in Biotechnology from the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Her dedication to education culminated in a Doctorate in STEM Education K-8 from Nova Southeastern University.

Initially, Dr. Finley embarked on a career in the pharmaceutical industry. However, her keen insights into the industry's profit-driven motives led her to a profound career shift. She transitioned to academia, where she found her true calling in teaching. At Bethune Cookman University, she shared her knowledge and enthusiasm for Anatomy and Biology with her students. While teaching at Bethune Cookman, she also became the lab manager and safety officer that allowed her to train students to prepare for careers in clinical lab sciences and chemical compliance.

Since 2011, Dr. Finley has been on a mission to bridge the gap in STEAM education among minority groups. Her dedication to inclusivity and diversity in STEAM propelled her to teach in the public school system. She also took on a leadership role in STEM instruction and program development for The Association to Preserve the Eatonville Community, Inc.'s Zora! STEM program.

In 2017, Dr. Finley founded eSTEAMed Learning, Inc, an organization dedicated to increasing STEAM identity and diversity within the industry. Through her visionary leadership, she has empowered over 3,000 students across the United States, Jamaica, Africa, and Trinidad and Tobago, providing them with the tools and opportunities to succeed in STEAM fields.
Currently, Dr. Finley is pursuing her dream of working full-time in eSTEAMed Learning, Inc while continuing to expand her businesses. Her tireless efforts and unwavering commitment to STEAM education make her a true pioneer and an inspirational leader in the field.

Board of Directors

Tiffany Simmons, Director of Operations

Tiffany Simmons is a powerhouse of planning and a master of making things happen! A 4th-generation Eatonvillian and proud U.S. Air Force veteran, Tiffany discovered her passion for logistics while serving in military operations. With over 18 years of experience in global operations management, she’s the go to for turning big visions into smooth, successful realities.

Tiffany has lived in 6 countries, worked on international projects, and visited over 30 destinations, making her a true global citizen with a talent for curating unforgettable experiences. As a world schooling mom, she blends learning with adventure, inspiring others to embrace curiosity, culture, and connection.

When she’s not juggling timelines and travel plans, Tiffany is all about self-care and joy—whether she's striking a yoga pose, diving into a pool, dancing to Soca rhythms, or spending quality time with her family. From hometown events to worldwide adventures, Tiffany leads with heart, hustle, and a whole lot of fun!

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. 

Ruthi Critton, Treasurer

Members

Shana Mount

Copyright © 2025 Esteamed Learning, Inc - All Rights Reserved.

Powered by

SAVE THE DATE! 10/18/25

Get Ready For Some #esteamedfun!

Learn more