Meet the Tsai CITY Bunch: Helping to Guide Yale’s Innovators, One Idea at a Time
At Tsai CITY, innovation thrives not just because of the visionary students who walk through its doors, but also thanks to the dedicated and passionate team behind the scenes. From guiding entrepreneurial ventures to spearheading sustainability initiatives, each staff member plays a vital role in shaping the future of innovation at Yale. This post is an introduction to the incredible people who make it all happen, from Clare, the Executive Director, to the team of program directors, fellows, and more. Together, we create a vibrant environment where ideas flourish, and students are empowered to turn their visions into reality.
Stay tuned to meet the individuals who are leading the charge at Tsai CITY and discover what exciting projects we are working on, our favorite lunch spots, and how we support the innovators of tomorrow!
Abby Winslow
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As Director of Operations and Technology, I optimize our building and systems for innovation and collaboration. I'm the go-to for students seeking Tsai CITY resources, business entity guidance, or a friendly chat about food!
What exciting project are you working on right now?
SEED! It's our new Student Employee Enrichment and Development program. We created it in response to feedback calling for more community building and professional development opportunities among our student employees. Here's a fun fact: we employ an average of 65 students each semester!
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
My favorite is the falafel pita from The Royal Grill 1. It's a food truck usually parked at the Med school, but for a while, they set up shop with the food trucks at the Whale.
Anjelica Gonzalez
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I’m the the Faculty Director at Tsai CITY and a Professor of Biomedical Engineering, I focus on developing biomimetic materials—materials that mimic nature's designs.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
Continuously training the next generation of scientists to think in an interdisciplinary way and to approach problems from a global perspective.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Davenport Dining Hall (one of Yale's best places to eat!)
Clare Leinweber
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I'm the Executive Director, helping students navigate their innovation pathways while working with the team to create impactful programs and a thriving innovation community.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm currently focused on our strategic planning process for the center! It's a fantastic opportunity for us to shape our future and create even more amazing experiences for our students.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Sherkaan, on Broadway, has amazing food!
Constance Greaves
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As Senior Administrative Assistant at Tsai CITY, I manage finances and resources. I ensure accurate financial tracking and help students access our support systems. My attention to detail keeps operations smooth and resources well-managed, benefiting both students and the center.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm working on enhancing my organizational skills to better support our team and streamline our processes.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
I'm a big fan of homemade lunches! You'll often find me enjoying my own cooking at work. It's a great way to bring a taste of home to the office.
Isabelle Schellenger
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As Assistant Director of Student Programming, I manage venture development programs like Launch Pad and Joiners, supporting student founders.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm thrilled about scaling up our Joiners program to connect even more students with exciting startup opportunities.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Zoi's is my go-to spot for a delicious midday meal!
Jackie Dadio
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I'm the Assistant Director of Events and Operations. I plan and manage Tsai CITY's signature events that celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship across Yale.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm excited about Tsai CITY's first-ever "Day of Thanks" on November 19. We're partnering with Downtown Evening Soup Kitchen (DESK) to host a Thanksgiving can drive from October 20 to November 19, ensuring those less fortunate in our community can enjoy a holiday meal. Join us on November 19 from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM for apple cider, pies, music, and fall festivities!
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Zoi's, hands down (order the #23). However, on a nice day, you'll find me at the food carts by the Whale.
Jorge Torres
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I serve as the Entrepreneurship Fellow at Tsai CITY, supporting students through teaching, advising, and mentoring.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm thrilled to begin working with our newest cohort of students in Tsai CITY's Investing in Innovation Intensive, a 6-week workshop series for students. They'll explore early-stage tech venture investing, gaining hands-on experience through simulated investor projects.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
The dining halls! Convenient, affordable, and offering a variety of solid lunch options.
Josie Jayworth
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As the Environmental Innovation Fellow at Tsai CITY and CBEY (Center for Business and the Environment), I have the exciting role of supporting students interested in all aspects of green innovation. My work spans from helping those curious about new approaches to climate solutions to assisting students actively developing climate tech startups.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm excited about our Beyond the Buzzwords project, a multimedia site educating people on climate tech terms. This semester, we're launching a podcast, redesigning the website, and sharing content with New Haven's community.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
The Portobello cart by the Whale! I love their veggie baby burrito and get one at least once a week.
Kassie Tucker
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I’m Tsai CITY’s Deputy Executive Director, overseeing programs, operations, and mentorship. I support students by connecting them with resources and opportunities to develop innovative mindsets and skills to advance their ideas.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I’m researching ways to make AI generative for higher education in partnership with Ithaka S+R and over 18 other universities. The space is evolving quickly, and there is so much potential.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
I just discovered Poppy’s, and I love it. I crave their Thai basil chicken wrap.
Matt Gira
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
I'm the Director of Student Programming at Tsai CITY. I oversee and champion entrepreneurship initiatives across our innovation hub!
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm in the process of selecting our exciting lineup of speakers for Startup Yale 2025!
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
The Juancho Guacamoles food truck!
Rochelle Goodwin
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As Communications and Marketing Director, I share Tsai CITY's impact with Yale and beyond. I support students by promoting their projects, providing resources, and showcasing innovation opportunities. I'm like an innovation cheerleader for our Tsai CITY students!
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm spearheading a project to revamp our students' project webpage. This will effectively feature student achievements and provide another tool for sharing their work.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Ramen at Ground is my go-to lunch spot. The noodles are yummy, and it's right next door.
Sade Owoye
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As the Associate Director of Student Programming, I empower students to develop their ventures and lead our accelerator program. My role focuses on nurturing innovative ideas and guiding students through the entrepreneurial process.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm thrilled about kicking off the fall semester's accelerator programming.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Pokémoto is my absolute favorite spot for a quick and satisfying meal!
Sean Plummer
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As Assistant Director of Digital Communications, I support students primarily by sharing Tsai CITY offerings through our newsletter, website, and social media channels.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
Right now, I'm heading up our Creator Space project. It's been a game-changer in helping students kick off and produce their own podcasts. Pretty cool stuff!
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
My favorite spot is Ramen at Ground, which has amazing ramen, and it is located next door to Tsai CITY.
Victor Padilla-Taylor
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
At Tsai CITY, I'm a bridge builder, connecting students to mentors and experts to help transition innovative ideas from ideation to reality.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm assembling a team of 15 Tsai CITY Student Fellows who will serve as ambassadors, innovators, and advisors, helping us connect Yale students from all backgrounds and disciplines.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Silliman Dining Hall. I've built great relationships with students and staff there, and the lively energy keeps me coming back!
Wendy Wojczak
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As one of the senior administrative assistants, I'm all about making your Tsai CITY experience a breeze. I support students by handling room reservations, arranging catering for events, and assisting with daily needs such as printing, office supplies, and general information about Tsai CITY.
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm currently working on two exciting projects: making Tsai CITY merchandise available and setting up a digital events schedule on a monitor at the entrance. These initiatives will enhance our community's visibility and keep everyone informed about our activities.
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
Without a doubt, my favorite has to be Town Pizza!
Zoe Hunter
What’s your role, and how do you support students at Tsai CITY?
As the Managing Director, I oversee the center's communication strategy, student programming, and DEI. Additionally, I guide students in exploring and understanding the diverse opportunities available at Tsai CITY
What exciting project are you working on right now?
I'm currently focused on enhancing our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts across all our programs. This involves conducting staff trainings, streamlining processes, and analyzing student feedback to make our offerings even more inclusive
What’s your favorite lunch spot around work?
It's not nearby, but Sandra's Next Generation is my favorite place to order from. Their soul food warms my heart every time.
Whether it’s organizing exciting programs, spearheading impactful projects, or simply sharing their favorite lunch spots, the Tsai CITY staff is dedicated to fostering a collaborative and creative space for students. Want to connect with us? Sign up for our office hours to chat with the team, get advice, or brainstorm your next big idea. As we continue to support and guide Yale’s trailblazers, we invite you to engage with our team and join us in shaping the future of innovation!