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About Us

Getting Students To And Through College

Our Mission

To empower limited income, first generation students to enter, succeed in and graduate from college

Our Vision

Ultimately, Higher Edge alumni will have the skills, mindset and confidence to enter the workforce and serve as role models within their community.

Board of Directors

Devon Butler, President – Arvinas Biopharmaceuticals

Sara Baker-Bailey, Secretary – Southern Connecticut State University

Tori Heim, Treasurer – Chelsea Groton Bank

Keith Turner – Homestead Funding Corporation

Sam Nassetta – Suisman & Shapiro Attorneys at Law

Shineika Fareus – A Better Way Foundation

For the 1st time in the organization's history the leadership team is composed of all women.

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Graciela Guzman

Success Program Manager

Graciela has been a New London resident since her youth. After graduating from New London High School, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Connecticut. Her experiences as an undergraduate sparked initial interest in higher education. After working at a dual enrollment high school as an administrative assistant she decided to solidify that interest and obtain a Masters degree in Counselor Education with a specialization in Student Development in Higher Education. She joined Higher Edge to empower students to learn and embrace their academic, professional, and personal growth journeys.

Tamara Berry

College Access Program Manager

Tamara Berry is originally from Greenville, South Carolina but lived in Charleston, South Carolina for 7 years. She attended the College of Charleston where she received her degree in Foreign Language Education and Spanish. As a first-generation college graduate she understands the challenges of navigating higher education independently and is passionate about making college accessible for all learners. She applied to Higher Edge to help students like herself get the support they need in order to succeed not only in higher education, but also in life. Education holds a special place in her heart as it not only opens doors to career opportunities but also enriches life with invaluable experiences and meaningful connections with others.

Katie Hallisey

Executive Director

Katie has volunteered with Higher Edge since its founding and joined the staff in 2017, most recently as the College Access Program Manager in New London. She brings 20 years of education/guidance experience to the position. She credits her own college journey to a former colleague at New London High School who urged her to return to school after seeing the impact she was making in the classroom as a paraprofessional within a special education program. Katie is excited to serve as the next Executive Director – to expand the community reach; to broaden the impact and build upon the foundation. But mostly, she is excited to share the students’ stories and accomplishments because she believes they are at the forefront of Higher Edge’s success.

Katie lives in New London with her husband and three children.

2024 Golf Tournament Details