Kathleen Schofield, Executive Director
Kathleen Schofield works to ensure equitable access to STEM2 learning across the Northeast Florida region. As a liaison between the corporate community and local school systems, she bridges education and industry—bringing insight into the needs of a 21st-century workforce while collaborating with school districts and universities.
She successfully executed the 21st Century Northeast Florida Workforce Development Program, a state appropriation that provided hands-on experiences with cutting-edge technologies—including robotics, coding, drones, and augmented reality—to more than 75,000 students.
Working with district leadership teams, Kathleen has helped develop and integrate innovative, standards-aligned STEM instruction directly into the school day. She has also expanded access to high-quality STEM learning in after-school programs, ensuring opportunities reach students in every setting.
Celeste Sciandra, Program Director
The Program Director for the Northeast Florida STEM2 Hub. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Education from Johns Hopkins University, Maryland, with an emphasis in math. During her 26 year career in education she has served as a classroom teacher and as a district math specialist in the 4th largest district in the nation.
Celeste is a facilitator for Code.org and a nationally certified INTEL Math trainer. As an INTEL Trainer she has facilitated professional development leading to extraordinary student learning gains. She has first hand experience with the implementation and impact of this program being proposed.
Melissa Wright, Director of Community Relations and partnerships at North-East Florida
Melissa Wright is the Director of Community Relations and Partnerships at the Northeast Florida Regional STEM2 Hub, where she connects schools, organizations, and community partners to expand STEM opportunities for students across the region.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment, bringing more than 24 years of experience in education and a lifelong passion for creating engaging learning environments where students can thrive. Known for her ability to connect people and ideas, Melissa turns collaboration into meaningful opportunities for students and educators alike.
Before joining STEM2 Hub, Melissa served as an elementary school principal and literacy specialist, strengthening student achievement and building strong school communities. Today, she continues to spark curiosity, encourage exploration, and help inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.
Jessica Shelton, Executive Assistant
Jessica Shelton keeps STEM2Hub running smoothly behind the scenes. Working closely with Kathy, Celeste, and Melissa, she coordinates programs, oversees grants and sponsorships, and manages the accounting and administrative details that bring STEM2Hub’s initiatives to life.
Originally from South Florida, Jessica earned a B.S. in Nutrition from the University of Florida and an M.P.A.S. from Nova Southeastern University. Before joining STEM2Hub, she practiced as a Physician Assistant in Birmingham, Alabama, assisting in surgeries across multiple specialties and caring for her own patients.
Now a proud mother of elementary and middle school children, Jessica sees firsthand the value of hands-on STEM education—both through her work and her children’s experiences.