Meet the STEP Team

Deborah Berkley

Dean, Student Development & Enrichment Programs
Director, Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) and Stevens Technical Enrichment Program (STEP)

Dean Berkley has general oversight for the Student Development and Enrichment Programs Department. The department includes four distinct programs serving eligible undergraduates and high school students: Stevens Technical Enrichment Program (STEP), Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) Program, Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science (ACES) and the Art Harper Saturday Academy (AHSA).

Dean Berkley is passionate about helping students and is dedicated to identifying new and innovative ways to motivate, champion, guide, and support students in their academic, personal, and career pursuits.

Edlyn Thompson-Mettle, Ed.D.

Director of High School Enrichment Programs

Dr. Edlyn Thompson-Mettle joined STEP in March 2018 after managing various nonprofit organizations in Boston, MA for over 10 years. As a seasoned educator, she has dedicated her career to enriching the lives of young adults and envisions a community where education is fully accessible to all who wish to pursue it. She specializes in leading youth programs that provide academic and career coaching to students whom have graduated from high school and are transitioning into college. In her role, she oversees Stevens ACES (Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science) and the Art Harper Saturday Academy, programs that expose, inspire, and support high school students from underrepresented and under-resourced communities in STEM by leveraging resources and partnerships to provide the tools needed to succeed in the field. Overall her passion for producing the next generation of leaders has served as a driving force in her professional life. Edlyn earned her BA in Psychology from the University of Connecticut, her MA in Mental Health Counseling and Behavioral Medicine with a specialization in Sport Psychology from Boston University, and her Doctorate of Education in Urban Education at the University of Pittsburgh.

Diana Palmeri, Ph.D.

Assistant Director of High School Enrichment Programs

Dr. Diana Palmeri joined Stevens Institute of Technology in April 2024 to manage the Stevens ACES (Accessing Careers in Engineering and Science) Program, focusing on high school partnerships and program development. In her role, Diana connects with school communities to strengthen partnerships and support underrepresented and under-resourced students in STEM. Previously, at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, Diana developed programs that introduced diverse students to scientific research and medical careers, offering them advising and academic skills workshops to foster their STEM interests. Diana holds a Biology degree from Rutgers University and a PhD in Cell and Molecular Biology from the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.

Christopher Gladden

STEP/EOF Assistant Director and Counselor

Christopher Gladden, a proud native of Alabama, joined the STEP team in November 2023 after serving as a Senior Recruiter and Travel Coordinator at Alabama A&M University. He holds a BA in Social Work from Alabama A&M University and an MS in Higher Education Administration from the University of Alabama Birmingham, which he leverages to fuel his passion for education. Deeply committed to the belief that education can transform lives, Chris strives to create supportive environments where students can excel. With his extensive experience in recruitment and travel coordination, Chris has gained valuable insights into the challenges students face, enabling him to advocate effectively for their needs. He is enthusiastic about continuing his mission to empower students and help them unlock their full potential.

Ellis Sanchez

Admissions Counselor - EOF Specialist

Ellis Sanchez joined Stevens Institute of Technology in November 2023, bringing experience from Felician University, where he served as Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Division II Baseball Coach. Ellis began his career in admissions in 2018 at his alma mater, Bloomfield College, as an Admissions Counselor, motivated by a desire to support students lacking access to higher education. At Stevens, he has a dual role between the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and the Office of Student Development and Enrichment Programs (STEP), focusing on recruiting traditional undergraduate students in New Jersey, as well as for the Educational Opportunity Fund (EOF) program.

Ciara Calabrese

Administrative Assistant

Ciara Calabrese joined Stevens Institute of Technology in January 2024 as the Administrative Assistant in the the Office of Student Development and Enrichment Programs, where she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the office runs smoothly and efficiently. Ciara manages the department’s administrative functions, including facilitating communication among faculty, staff, and students, processing orders and financial payments, and coordinating logistics for events and activities. Drawing on her previous work experiences in building strong relationships, Ciara is passionate about helping others and creates a welcoming environment for students, offering them a safe space to relax, unwind, and seek assistance. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Delaware.