Meet the Newest Members of the FIRST Chesapeake Team
- FIRST Chesapeake
- Jul 31
- 2 min read
Strengthening the Foundation – Welcoming Bonnie, Matt, and Samson to the FIRST Chesapeake Team
As we embark on the 2025–2026 season—the FIRST AGE—we’re thrilled to introduce three exceptional new team members whose expertise and enthusiasm will help FIRST Chesapeake continue to grow sustainably while staying deeply connected to our community.
This year's theme is all about legacy and evolution—and with the strong operational and programmatic foundation built by Shelly Stoddard and Anne Shade, we're excited to deepen our service to teams, volunteers, and partners. These new hires will allow us to be more proactive, responsive, and personal in how we support the region.
Bonnie Crites – Program Coordinator
Bonnie joins us after 15+ years as a science and math educator and an inspiring force in West Virginia’s robotics scene. As the coach of 21 FIRST teams—including FTC, FLL Challenge, and FLL Explore—Bonnie brings boots-on-the-ground insight into what teams need to thrive. Her deep experience in curriculum design, data analysis, instructional coaching, and leadership makes her uniquely
positioned to support both new and veteran teams.
Bonnie will be focused on building stronger relationships with coaches and mentors across the region, coordinating program delivery for FRC and FTC, and helping shape event experiences that are mission-aligned, inclusive, and engaging. She embodies the FIRST spirit of hands-on learning and gracious professionalism, and we’re honored to have her on the team.
Matt Sanders – Program Coordinator
Matt brings a decade of experience as a museum educator, public health communicator, and community engagement leader. His background in designing accessible educational programs—particularly for diverse audiences—and his creativity in communication make him an exciting addition to our programming staff.
He’s already hit the ground running by connecting with coaches, supporting planning for the 2025–2026 event season, and helping ensure that every interaction with FIRST Chesapeake is meaningful and mission-driven. With a Master’s in Museum Studies and a history of stakeholder engagement, Matt is poised to make a big impact in team-facing operations, storytelling, and program support.
Samson Mulugeta – Operations Associate
Samson is a proud FTC alum and a recent graduate at the University of Maryland, where he was a Maryland Promise Scholar. His passion for cybersecurity, digital equity, and emerging tech is matched only by his belief that every student deserves access to transformational STEM experiences.
As our new Operations Associate, Samson will help streamline the behind-the-scenes systems that power FIRST Chesapeake. From IT support and asset management to event logistics and data systems, his technical skills and leadership experience—from student government to federal internships—make him a vital part of our operations team. His presence will allow us to respond faster, solve problems smarter, and build a tech-savvy foundation for future growth.
Looking Ahead
These new roles reflect a commitment to personal service, operational excellence, and deepened impact. As we scale our programs, we’re also scaling our people—ensuring that FIRST Chesapeake remains not only the leading STEM program in the region but also the most responsive and community-driven.
You’ll be hearing more from Bonnie, Matt, and Samson in the weeks to come. Don’t hesitate to say hello, reach out with questions, or invite them to see your teams in action!
With excitement and gratitude,
The FIRST Chesapeake Team
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