Developing STEAM and CTE careers for students through gaming.

Our Mission

At the Be Elite Foundation, our mission is to ignite a passion for STEAM in youth by providing equitable access to cutting-edge technologies and educational opportunities. We are committed to ensuring that all communities, irrespective of race or gender, can participate fully in the dynamic world of STEAM. By harnessing the enthusiasm students have for gaming, we aim to attract, engage, and inspire the innovators and leaders of tomorrow, fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce for the future.

What We Do

Student Engagement Through Gaming

  • Student esports leagues
  • Gamified learning
  • After-School and community gaming leagues tied to learning
example

Career Exploration

  • STEAM and CTE based career exploration through gaming
  • In-person STEAM and CTE “career days” at schools
  • College and CTE placement services associated with gaming
example

STEAM Programming

  • CTE and STEAM curriculum associated with game titles
  • After-school programs utilizing gaming to teach technology
  • V/R training and learning activities
example

STEAM Infrastructure and Innovation

  • STEAM Lab installations
  • Proprietary games designed for learning
  • Creator economy learning opportunities
example

Student Outcomes

91%

Improvement in Social Skills

73%

Improvement in Mental Health

78%

Improvement in Leadership Skills

Our Team

Rick Suarez

Rick Suarez

Richard Suarez is a successful entrepreneur with a dynamic career spanning over two decades. In 2004, Richard founded his first company, which has since grown into one of the largest recycling companies in the region, with offices throughout the Midwest and Southeast. His visionary leadership and innovative strategies have significantly contributed to the company's expansion and success in the recycling industry.

Dr. Delores “Gigi”  Hamilton

Dr. Delores “Gigi” Hamilton

As the Founder of Personal Enrichment Counseling & Consulting Services, PLLC, Dr. Hamilton has spent over 25 years of her career working to develop relationships for individuals, couples, military personnel, professional athletes, and business executives to help them reach their greatest potential. She has proudly held the position as the President of the Licensed Professional Counselor Association of North Carolina. She has authored several wellness books to include Let the Marriage Begin, The Marriage Blueprint, and My Comfort Tree to name a few. Dr. Hamilton is often sought after to speak on motivational, organizational, and wellness topics within the United States.

Jennifer Cattier

Jennifer Cattier

Jenn is the Chief Operating Officer at Cornell Capital and has almost 30 years of experience across multiple alternative investment asset classes. Prior to joining the firm in 2022, Jenn served as the General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer of SK Capital Partners. Prior to that, Jenn served as General Counsel of Almanac Realty Investors, the private real estate investment division of Neuberger Berman. Before joining Almanac, Jenn served in senior legal and compliance positions at Morgan Stanley and Deutsche Bank, focusing on private equity, real estate and various strategic initiatives.

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