College Access for All
Stephen Colon
Stellar Advising was established to confront the evolving challenges and growing disparities in accessing college education, as part of a broader commitment to educational equity. It’s the inspired creation of its founder, Stephen Colon, who brings a wealth of experience in college access programming. As the co-founder and former Director of the School of Interactive Arts, the first pre-college game design program in NYC, Stephen led a team that achieved a 100% college matriculation rate to the country’s top game design programs. Additionally, he secured over $8 million in federal grants to expand college access and worked with over 500 students annually, primarily from underrepresented communities.
Having served in leadership roles at College Board and Urban Arts, Stephen now applies his unique insights and strategic acumen to Stellar Advising. He’s renowned for his use of cutting-edge, tech-driven solutions to provide large-scale, high-quality application assistance, especially to underserved student populations. Through his innovative and empathetic approach, Stephen continues to light the path for students from all backgrounds, ensuring they not only access but succeed in higher education.
Mission Statement
Our mission at Stellar Advising is to light the way to a better future for students who are often overlooked in the college admissions process. We achieve this by providing personalized, high-quality college advising services that guide students from underrepresented, and often under-resourced, communities through the complexities of higher education pathways.
Our Core Values
We are committed to educational equity, ensuring that each student we support has access to all opportunities they deserve. We prioritize inclusivity and cultural responsiveness, understanding that each student’s journey is unique. Above all, we believe in empowering students to discover, explore, and choose the right option for themselves, while giving them the tools and guidance they need to walk their own path with confidence.
Our Philosophy
We see education as the foundation upon which dreams are built and futures are shaped. We understand that the road to higher education can be complex and challenging, especially for those communities who have historically been denied a seat at the table. That’s why we are committed to removing barriers and simplifying the journey. We’re not just advisors; we see ourselves as partners and advocates, guiding our students every step of the way and celebrating their victories as our own.