RAMP: Wentworth's Summer Bridge Program

Kathleen Portillo-Varela is an educator and advocate passionate about creating spaces where all students feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive. As Director for Campus Culture and Connections at Wentworth Institute of Technology, she leads programs that foster belonging and equity across campus. She also directs RAMP, a summer bridge and leadership program for incoming first-generation college students from Greater Boston, helping them build confidence, connection, and community. Guided by her belief in education as a tool for transformation, Kathleen is committed to cultivating opportunity, amplifying student voice, and advancing justice in higher education and beyond. 

Tom Schaefer has supported the RAMP program for 10 years, serving students in project-based learning, instructing team-building, leadership, communication, and critical thinking skills. He works as Associate Professor of Language & Literature at Cape Cod Community College where he now lives, but returns to Boston each summer for his two favorite places: the RAMP Program at WIT and Fenway Park.

Kate Stutz serves as the Director of College Access and Success in the Center for Culture and Community. In this role, she leads initiatives within the Boston Pipeline, creating and expanding pathways for local students to explore STEM fields and earn degrees aligned with the region’s workforce needs. This includes Beacon Pathways and Beyond Possible. Kate also co-directs RAMP and Bridges Academy. Her work centers on the strategic growth and sustainability of programs that expand access, foster belonging, and empower students to thrive from high school through college completion.  

Madison Thorpe (she/her) is passionate about supporting students to navigate college and build communities where they can thrive academically, socially, and professionally.

She holds a Master of Arts in International Higher Education and Intercultural Relations from Lesley University and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Digital Studies from the University of Mary Washington.

Madison brings extensive experience in student life, program management, and college success programming. She has designed and led engagement programs, mentored student leaders, and collaborated with campus partners to create comprehensive support systems that help students connect and achieve their goals. As the Assistant Director of College Success in the Center for Culture and Community, she focuses on supporting initiatives such as Bridges Academy and RAMP, working to ensure students have access to the resources, guidance, and mentorship they need to succeed.

Outside of work, Madison enjoys spending time with her family and friends in Seaport and is looking forward to exploring the Ice Cream Museum.

Ashley Sanchez Melo (she/her) is a College Access and Success Coordinator in the Center for Culture and Community. Through her role, Ashley supports the Boston Pipeline, particularly by working with Boston high school students who participate in dual enrollment and Early College at Wentworth. She spearheads the Industry Mentorship Program, connecting current Wentworth students to professionals at industry partners. As part of the Center, Ashley also supports programming such as RAMP and Bridges Academy to ensure students have the tools they need to be successful.