Our Founders
Michael Tsampos
Michael Tsampos, our lead instructor and program coordinator at STEM for Seniors, has a solid foundation in engineering, developed through the Project Lead the Way program and extensive involvement with FIRST Robotics. Michael excels in creating and modifying complex 3D models, producing precise technical CAD drawings, and designing sophisticated mechanical systems. He is skilled in using Autodesk Fusion 360 and adept at technical sketching and problem-solving, ensuring that our STEM programs are both cutting-edge and practical. Michael's expertise is complemented by his dedication to making STEM accessible and engaging for seniors, enhancing their educational experience and community participation.
Niko Souranis
Niko, co-founder of Golden Bridges STEM for Seniors, brings a robust background in community service and a deep passion for psychology, which he skillfully integrates into enhancing the cognitive abilities of seniors through innovative STEM programs. His commitment to mental health is enriched by his interests in psychology, sociology, and business, which inform his approach to developing programs that not only engage seniors in STEM but also support their mental and cognitive functions. At Golden Bridges, Niko aims to make STEM accessible and enriching, thereby improving the quality of life and cognitive resilience of seniors.
The idea for "Golden Bridges STEM for Seniors" was born from an eye-opening realization about the unmet needs within our senior community. As the founders, we have always had a profound respect for both the wisdom of our elders and the limitless possibilities offered by STEM. Our organization is the culmination of these two passions.
Board Members
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Danielle Cook
Danielle contributes over a decade of experience in property management and real estate to our board. Currently a Property Manager, she excels in negotiation, sales, and market research, with a strong focus on buyer representation. Danielle's B.S. in Business Administration complements her robust skill set in managing complex operations and delivering exceptional client service. Her contributions are pivotal in efficiently managing our programs and ensuring their effectiveness.
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Steve Firko
Steve Firko brings over 20 years of expertise in transportation and reliability engineering to our board. As a retired Senior Reliability Engineer for a major transit system, he consistently improved operational efficiency and safety standards. Steve's extensive education includes a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a Concentration in Management, as well as comprehensive coursework in Computer Science and Electronics, Computer, and Telecommunication Technology. His professional journey encompasses diverse roles, from computer programmer to Senior Reliability Engineer, where he has developed skills in database mining, SQL, and hardware and software management. Steve's innovative approach, coupled with his robust technical background and membership in IEEE, ensures our programs are impactful and well-structured, aligning closely with our mission. His dedication to operational excellence and safety makes him an essential contributor to our board, enhancing our efforts to deliver effective and efficient solutions.
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Janet Myers, RN
Janet enriches our board with extensive healthcare experience and a deep commitment to inclusivity in STEM. Her background as a registered nurse fuels her dedication to developing engaging STEM programs for seniors. With a career spent caring for seniors, Janet brings a profound understanding of their unique needs and challenges, ensuring every senior can actively participate in our advancing technological landscape.
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Nikolette Tsampos
Nikolette brings her experience and a distinctive blend of skills to our board. With two decades of expertise in client relations, she has developed an exceptional ability to understand and meet the needs of diverse groups with precision and care. As a professional organizer, she is detail-oriented, ensuring every project is executed flawlessly. At Golden Bridges STEM for Seniors, she excels in organizing complex educational programs and events. Nikolette's organizational expertise, client relations experience, and dedication to excellence enhance program development and delivery to provide engaging, well-structured, and enjoyable educational experiences for seniors.
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Chris Wright
Chris is a seasoned IT professional with over 30 years of extensive experience spanning the military, private sector, and federal government. He began his career as a programmer, where he excelled in developing customer-focused applications, gaining a reputation for delivering high-quality, user-friendly solutions. Transitioning to the private sector, He directed a diverse team of IT professionals, overseeing corporate IT operations across the nation. His leadership and technical expertise ensured seamless integration and robust support for complex systems. In the Federal Government (National Institute on Aging and USDA), He leveraged his deep understanding of technology and strategic planning to enhance national IT infrastructure, demonstrating a commitment to excellence and innovation throughout his distinguished career. Chris holds a BS in Information Technology, further solidifying his qualifications and expertise in the field.