Cindy was born in Boston and grew up in the Greater Boston Area. She earned her B.A. in Political Science and Chinese Language and Culture from Beloit College in 2022. Though she thinks the Midwest is underrated, she has since returned to Massachusetts and she joined Steppingstone as an Admission Assistant in 2023. Being a first-generation college graduate herself, she appreciates being able to both work with Scholars and help them reach their academic goals.

Elena Jay joined the Steppingstone Admission team in 2016, and before her full-time role here, she was an intern at Steppingstone’s affiliate, Hartford Youth Scholars. Prior to joining Steppingstone, she worked in her hometown of Hartford, CT at Family Life Education—a nonprofit dedicated to empowering first-generation, immigrant families. Elena received her B.A. in Sociology and Spanish from Bates College and is a graduate of Tufts University’s Institute for Nonprofit Practice. Outside of work, she enjoys being outdoors in any capacity, meeting all the dogs she comes across, and cooking/trying new restaurants.

A member of the Admission team since September 2021, Lillian collaborates with a vast, indomitable community of Scholars, families, and educators. She never turns down an opportunity to tackle problems creatively or to learn in symbiosis with her peers. Complimenting her work with Steppingstone, Lillian also facilitates events for Skip the Small Talk, helping strangers connect and practice vulnerability. Her many hobbies include creating ambience vibes, cooking, board games, and pilates. She is supported by her loving partner, stellar madre, and feisty feline, Creamsicle.