Ty Gabriel

Owner / Director

I have always been passionate about STEM education. My mother, taught in a day care center (until my siblings and I were old enough to be home alone) and a teacher in a NYC public school. She always stressed the importance of gaining STEM proficiency to have the tools to satisfy our natural curiosity *and* to thrive professionally in the world. These lessons were not lost on me, which is why I found my way to Stemtree.

I attended NYU, and worked in IT before joining the military after the events of September 11, 2001. I obtained my MBA at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and a MS in Biotechnology Entrepreneurship from Johns Hopkins University.

I am very happy to bring Stemtree services to the greater Miami community. Please reach out to me to see what Stemtree can offer your child -- to aide in their own journey of discovery and success.

Dr. Sai Chaithra Allala

Instructor

My passion for STEM education is deeply rooted in my diverse background and experiences. From a young age, I was inspired by the transformative power of education and the importance of STEM proficiency in fostering curiosity and professional success. This inspiration led me to dedicate my career to teaching and research in STEM fields.

I completed my undergraduate studies in Computer Science, followed by a Master's degree in the same field. My academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. where I focused on integrating different learning strategies to adapt teaching methods for students, with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and real-world application. During my Ph.D., I collaborated with distinguished researchers, resulting in several publications that contribute to the field of educational strategies in STEM.

I have had the privilege of teaching at Stemtree of Coral Gables, where I engaged with students of various age groups, facilitating hands-on learning experiences that foster deep understanding and enthusiasm for STEM fields. This experience has enriched my teaching philosophy, which centers on creating an inclusive and adaptive learning environment for students from diverse backgrounds. I am dedicated to preparing the next generation of innovators and leaders by integrating practical experiences into my teaching. I believe in the power of education to transform lives and am committed to helping my students achieve their full potential.

Maria Vega

Instructor

I am a Biology major at the University of Miami, pursuing my Bachelor’s degree after earning an Associate’s in Biology from the Miami Dade Honors College. My passion for STEM education was shaped by my experiences in medical research laboratories and academic settings, where I witnessed how science can inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence in learners of all ages. I have extensive experience teaching STEM curricula across various Miami-Dade County Public Schools and providing individualized tutoring in science and math. Additionally, I’ve collaborated with organizations such as the Coral Gables Woman’s Club and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, both dedicated to improving children’s well-being and educational growth.

Throughout my college journey, I have taken on leadership roles in multiple organizations and strengthened my commitment to advancing scientific literacy and mentorship. As a native speaker of both English and Spanish, I enjoy connecting with diverse communities and making science education accessible to a wider audience. My ultimate career goal is to pursue translational medical research, contributing to discoveries that deepen our understanding of science and improve human health.

I am eager to contribute to Stemtree’s mission of fostering STEM proficiency and enthusiasm across the Miami community, using my background to inspire the next generation of scientists and innovators.

Ashley Parrish

Instructor

I’m a senior at the University of Miami studying Health Science on the pre-med track, with plans to pursue medical school and become a pediatric physician. I currently conduct research at the Miller School of Medicine focused on familial health outcomes. My work explores the intersection of mental and physical health, with a recent paper on cancer caregiving outcomes presented at the Society of Behavioral Medicine national conference and under review for publication.

I'm passionate about expanding access to education and creative outlets for children, which comes from my own experience of developing my interest in STEM. I’ve always enjoyed working with children and being a part of their individual development. Through my work with Stemtree, I’ve had the opportunity to support students from diverse backgrounds as they explore the intricacies of the STEM field. I look forward to helping more children experience the wonders of STEM while discovering their own unique interests and passions.

Adrian Morton

Instructor

Hi! I’m Adrian, a B.S. Computer Science student at Florida International University. I specialize in back-end engineering and machine learning, and I’m proficient in Python, Java, and C. I like building reliable services and clear data systems, and I work on forecasting from time-based data by turning messy inputs into simple, useful predictions, like the weather forecasts that you see on your phone!

Beyond classes and projects, I love going to the gym, fishing, and playing video games. Most of all, I’m passionate about helping grow the next wave of software engineers, sharing what I’ve learned, building together, and pushing the edge of what we can create.

Daniela Salgado

Instructor

My name is Daniela and I am currently pursuing a B.S. in Biochemistry at FIU. I am very passionate about chemistry and the production of scientific knowledge, which is why I am planning to attend graduate school and engage in biochemical research in the future. I believe that science is really fun and love to communicate it to others! Being able to contribute in making science more accessible to everyone brings me joy. Outside of school, I find happiness in having conversations with my loved ones, reading, and watching movies.

Neeka Abadi

Instructor

Hi I am Neeka! I am a biology student at the University of Miami, pursuing a career in medicine. I have a deep interest in chemistry, emergency medicine, mathematics, and body systems. I have spent much of my life exercising and playing sports, especially swimming. I taught kids how to swim for about 3 years, and I have been expanding my teaching experience here at Stemtree since August 2025. My interests span far past academics, and I love to share all of my passions with eager learners!

Leika Cesar

Instructor

My name is Leika Cesar, a 20 year old who is passionate for the arts. I'm majoring in both Drama Education and Business Marketing at Miami Dade College. I love writing, crocheting, learning new languages and most of all performing. I speak French, Haitian Creole, and English fluently and am still learning and practicing Spanish, Korean and Chinese. I am a fashion designer and an actress. I have made gowns for wedding guests and acted in plays and musicals and also won awards for my craft. I also love the beach, plants and animals with the exception of insects and reptiles.

Sigrid Ekeland

Instructor

Hi, I am Sigrid Ekeland. I am a Junior at the University of Miami majoring in Biology with minors in Psychology, Spanish, Chemistry, and Management. I'm originally from Brooklyn, NY, and my hobbies include baking, fostering cats, going for walks, and shopping. After graduation, I hope to pursue both an MBA and an MS in biotechnology. Eventually, I would to enter the medical research / biotechnology field professionally.

Stephanie Erickson

Instructor

My name is Stephanie Erickson and I am an undergraduate student at Florida International University (FIU). I am a biology major with a minor in a chemistry, and I am on the pre-medical track. In the future, I hope to go to medical school. Some of my favorite things to do outside of school are going to the beach and reading.

Amanda Guerra

Hi! I’m Amanda, a Health Science major on the pre-medical track at the University of Miami, where I am also pursuing a minor in Psychology. Before attending UM, I earned my Associate of Arts degree from Miami Dade College. I have always loved my academics, especially the sciences, and I plan to attend medical school in the future with the goal of becoming a physician, with a special interest in radiology. As the child of Cuban immigrants, I was raised with a strong appreciation for education and the value of hard work and curiosity. I am fluent in English and Spanish, and I enjoy working with children and helping them build confidence while discovering their own interests in science and learning.

Outside of academics, I enjoy drawing and creating art, working out, and playing sports with friends. I’m excited to share my enthusiasm for STEM and support students as they explore new ideas and develop their passions at Stemtree!