MEET OUR TEAM
Our team of specialists are seasoned professionals with a wealth of experience in education and a passion for driving positive change. Our primary focus is to empower learners and to create meaningful, engaging learning experiences that foster wonder, curiosity, and joy to promote a desire for life long learning.
Elaina has over 30 years of experience in the culinary industry. Prior to joining WorkspaceCT, she worked as the catering manager at Western Connecticut State University. She has a culinary degree from Johnson and Wales University in Restaurant Management. She also has a certificate in The Essentials of French Wine from Cornell University. She owned her own catering and events consulting business and possesses a wealth of expertise in culinary arts management.
Elaina Mendes
Culinary Specialist
“Cooking is at once child's play and adult joy. And cooking done with care is an act of love.”
- Craig Claiborne
Paul was the Facilities Director for Workspace Education when EdAdvance & CES acquired the 32,000 square foot building and, due to his high-level technical skills, was asked to stay on and continue his role for WorkSpaceCT. Paul helped to design the unique learning space and is dedicated to keeping the state-of-the-art facility in exceptional condition. Paul specializes in audio visual, lighting design, and woodworking. He has rolled out a new audio visual program and helps schools with consulting and rental equipment. He is experienced in working with secondary students and helps train high school students on new AV theatre equipment use.
Paul Merchant
Facilities and Technology Manager
“People who wonder if the glass is half empty or half full miss the point. The glass is refillable.”
- Unknown
Eileen came to EdAdvance in 2011 after more than years as an IT professional for a major corporate company. She started at EdAdvance as the Administrative Assistant for Interdistrict Programs.
She then moved to the Danbury office where she ran the front desk and supported the Danbury Early Childhood, School Readiness and Community Service groups.
Once WorkspaceCT, Bethel was opened, she moved with the ACCESS 9-12 school and now supports ACCESS 9-12, WorkspaceCT and the Danbury Birth to Three groups.
Eileen Luchsinger
Administrative Assistant
“When we do the best we can, we never know what miracle is wrought in our life or the life of another."
– Helen Keller
WorkspaceCT is dedicated to maintaining an impeccably clean facility and Jose is an integral part of our team. He has worked for WorkspaceCT for one year and helps ensure that our facilities are in tip-top condition. He stages events so that our spaces best suit our clients professional needs. Jose also is onsite to assist our chef with banquet and catering services. Jose has an Associate's Degree in Liberal Arts and plans to continue his studies this upcoming year.
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Jose Perez
Custodian
"A custodian's work may be invisible, but it's impact is undeniable."
-Unknown
WorkspaceCT is a collaboration of CES and EdAdvance, two of Connecticut's six Regional Educational Service Centers (RESCs) working to promote the success of school districts and their communities.
