Meet The Team

At Elevate, our team is made up of passionate, purpose-driven individuals who are committed to walking alongside students every step of the way. From mentorship and programming to operations and partnerships, each team member plays a vital role in helping young people rise, thrive, and realize their full potential. Get to know the hearts behind the mission!

Executive Director

Eric Torres

Our Executive Director leads Elevate Bridgeport with 19 years of educational experience. Seven of those years were devoted to the Bridgeport Public Schools as a 3rd and 4th grade teacher. He then became the Assistant Principal for a PreK through 12th grade charter school in New Haven, CT. Eric holds a Bachelor's Degree in Human Service, a Master's Degree in Elementary Education, and an 092 Intermediate Administration and Supervision certification from Sacred Heart University. He was also the founder and Executive Director of the Greater Bridgeport Respite Care for Children, providing at-risk youth who had difficulties thriving in a traditional after-school program with after-school care that met their academic, social, and emotional needs through mentoring, life skills, and character building.

Program Director

Marcella Cox

As Elevate’s Program Director, Mrs. Cox brings a deep passion for youth development and community impact. She oversees program implementation, mentor support, and student engagement to ensure every young person in Elevate is empowered to reach their full potential.

Marcella Lawson Cox is a leader, mentor, facilitator and friend. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Spanish and has served and loved families in multiple countries. As a Bridgeport native one of her greatest goals is to provide opportunities for students to be exposed to greatness so they can emulate greatness in their own lives.

Administrative Assistant

Johanna Lopez

Mrs. Lopez keeps Elevate running smoothly behind the scenes. As our Administrative Assistant, she supports day-to-day operations, coordinates communications, and ensures our team and students have what they need to thrive.

Bridge Academy Pipeline

Pipeline Coordinator

Benjamin McCullough

Born and raised in Philadelphia with a strong Christian background, Mr. McCoullough is driven by purpose and faith. As a graduate of the University of Connecticut, he has a passion for education and community service. Since moving to Bridgeport Mr. McCullough has dedicated himself to shaping the minds and hearts of the next generation. Benjamin helps students navigate their path toward success. He builds strong relationships with both our community partners and students, providing opportunities for young people to grow, learn, and step confidently into their futures.

Mr. McCoullough is a Pipeline Coordinator, who brings both experience and empathy to role in guiding students with wisdom and love. Mr. McCoullough’s goal as leader is to empower students to believe in their potential and use their voices for positive change in our community.

Teacher Mentor

Jessica Jackson

I’m Jessica Jackson, a Teacher-Mentor at Elevate Bridgeport. What inspires me most about my role is the opportunity to empower and support students in our community. Building personal relationships with our students brings me immense joy. A few fun facts about me: I’m a professional makeup artist with a passion for travel, interior design, and renovation projects!

Teacher Mentor

Kyle Jordan

My name is Kyle Jordan, and I’m a Teacher-Mentor at Elevate Bridgeport. What brings me the most joy in my role is working alongside the incredible team at Bridge. My coworkers are amazing, and we genuinely support one another—it’s a privilege to be part of such a fantastic group. I love teaching students lessons that inspire and transform their mindsets, encouraging them to grow and thrive. Mentoring my students in the afternoons is a true blessing, whether it’s taking them to Chick-fil-A or exploring a college campus together. I deeply cherish being part of those meaningful moments in their lives. A fun fact about me: I’m an avid reader, and I hold a degree in "cookieology." I can inspect a cookie and instantly tell whether it’s worth buying or not!

Bassick High School Pipeline

Pipeline Coordinator

Gisela Taveras

As a Pipeline Coordinator at Elevate Bridgeport, I have the privilege of working with youth and participating in adventurous activities that allow me to laugh, play, and explore with our youth. This keeps my energy youthful and my spirit light. A fun fact about me is that I’m inspired by trying new things and love experiences that engage all five senses. This role not only keeps me vibrant but also aligns with my life’s purpose of helping and supporting others—whether students or staff—to become their best selves.

Pipeline Coordinator

Vicky Kalala

My name is Victoire Kalala, and I’m a Teacher-Mentor at Bassick High School. I’m originally from the Congo and moved to the U.S. from Africa when I was 12 years old. A fun fact about me is that I never attended 3rd, 4th, or 5th grade. Growing up with a unique background, I’ve noticed how different my experiences were compared to the challenges our youth face today. I’m passionate about helping students develop discipline in academics while also discovering their sense of identity. Many students struggle with self-identity, leading to choices that can harm themselves, others, and their future. My goal is to show them there’s a better path forward!

Teacher Mentor

Harrison Tagnidoung

My name is Harrison Tagnidoung, and I’m a Teacher-Mentor for Elevate Bridgeport, serving at Bassick High School. This role has been an incredibly rewarding experience, from building strong connections with my team to mentoring students through academic challenges, personal growth, and relationship-building. It’s been a true blessing, keeping me engaged and fostering my own personal development.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at home—whether it’s watching movies, hosting game nights, or experimenting in the kitchen. Elevate has also inspired me to read more, from the Bible to informative content, which equips me to better guide my students on the right path.