Melissa Orekoya – Program Director
Christina, a proud Brooklyn native, holds degrees from Queensborough Community College and Mercy College, as well as a Master’s in Educational Studies from Manhattanville University. With more than 14 years of experience in youth development, she is deeply committed to helping young people grow into successful and contributing members of society. Christina is passionate about empowering youth and building meaningful connections with those she serves. Her academic background in Psychology and Special Education underscores her dedication to understanding cognitive development and its critical role in education.
CONTACT: melissaorekoya@bridgeup.org
Christina Crosby – Program Coach
Christina, a proud Brooklyn native, holds degrees from Queensborough Community College and Mercy College, as well as a Master’s in Educational Studies from Manhattanville University. With more than 14 years of experience in youth development, she is deeply committed to helping young people grow into successful and contributing members of society. Christina is passionate about empowering youth and building meaningful connections with those she serves. Her academic background in Psychology and Special Education underscores her dedication to understanding cognitive development and its critical role in education.
CONTACT: ccrosby@bridgeup.org
Antonia Peña – Program Coach
Antonio is a United States Navy veteran, Fine Arts graduate, flag football coach, and proud Bronx native who has dedicated his life to service. His professional experience includes working with youth at ACS’s Horizons Juvenile Detention Center in the Bronx as well as with various foster care agencies. Antonio brings his skills and passion to BridgeUP with the goal of empowering scholars and fostering a culture of excellence. In collaboration with faculty and parents, he is committed to creating an environment of positivity and hope—one that equips every student with the resilience and determination to pursue their highest aspirations, no matter the challenges they may face.
CONTACT: apena@bridgeup.org
Daishawn Bryce – Program Coach
Daishawn is a former math teacher with five years of classroom experience. He is deeply committed to supporting young people and draws on his personal and professional experiences to guide and inspire them. With a strong interest in finance, Daishawn enjoys sharing his knowledge of stocks and trading, helping students understand the value of financial literacy and fiscal responsibility. Outside of academics, he serves as a youth basketball coach with the Riverside Hawks, where he continues to mentor and positively impact young people.
CONTACT: dbryce@bridgeup.org
Yasmin Avila – Program Coach
Yazmin Avila has nearly 10 years of experience in youth development, with the past three years focused on post-secondary success and career exploration. She is passionate about empowering young people to achieve their goals and helping families understand the many pathways available after high school. Yazmin believes every student deserves access to guidance, resources, and opportunities that support their future. Her work is driven by the belief that education opens doors and creates lasting change for communities.
CONTACT: yavila@bridgeup.org
Luke Redman – BridgeOUT Coordinator
Luke Redman serves as the Lead Tutor at BridgeUP, specializing in English instruction and essay development. A graduate of Colorado College with a B.A. in English, he works closely with rising seniors to guide them through the college essay process. In addition to his tutoring role, Luke supports alumni engagement as a coordinator with BridgeOut, helping maintain meaningful connections with former scholars. He is deeply passionate about his students, his work, and the mission of BridgeUP.
CONTACT: lredman@bridge.org
Ricardo Vansertima -Program Coordinator
BridgeUP + OUT 