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).

Katie Carmer - Program Director

Katie joined STEP in 2019, bringing six years of experience as a humanities teacher and school administrator. Katie graduated from the University of Notre Dame with degrees in Liberal Studies and Cello Performance. After moving to Phoenix and teaching for three years, she decided to return to school and completed her master’s in Education Policy, Organization, and Leadership Studies at Stanford University. In addition to her work with STEP, Katie is actively involved in several music education programs and continues to hone her skills as a cello teacher. She is passionate about educational equity and believes that all students should have access to opportunities to grow intellectually and creatively. She loves working with STEP students because of their inspiring determination and energy.

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!

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.