Higher Edge logo
Facebook Instagram

About Us

About Us

Getting Students To And Through College

Getting Students To And Through College

Our Mission

Higher Edge supports first-generation students to access college, earn a degree, and build the future they envision.

Our Vision

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

Board of Directors

Chris Soto, Founder and President

Sara Baker-Bailey, Secretary – Harvest Against Hunger

Susan Jones, Treasurer – Hoyt, Filippetti, & Malahan CPAs

Shineika Boyer – A Better Way Foundation

Keith Turner – Homestead Funding Corporation

Contact Us

Chris Soto

Founder and President

Chris founded Higher Edge in 2010 with the goal of increasing college access for New London students. He previously served as Executive Director from 2010-2018 and has over two decades of education policy experience. He most recently served as Senior Advisor to U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona. Prior to that, Chris held a variety of roles in state government including, Director of Innovation at the Connecticut State Department of Education, Director of Legislative Affairs for Connecticut Governor Lamont, and proudly served as State Representative for New London, CT in the Connecticut General Assembly. He holds a Master in Public Affairs (MPA) from Brown University and a Bachelor of Science in Operations Research from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.

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.