Genia Stevens, Founder and Executive Director 

Genia has been an entrepreneur for over 20 years, supporting clients with business development, marketing communications, strategic planning, and community engagement. For three years, Genia served as an Entrepreneur in Residence at Madison College.

Genia has served on numerous nonprofit boards and committees, including Associated Bank’s Community Markets Advisory Council, the City of Beloit Equal Opportunities Commission, the Beloit NAACP Economic Development Committee, the Beloit NAACP Political Action Committee, the Foundation for Madison’s Public Schools, the Beloit Memorial High School’s Master Planning Committee, and the Beloit School District Strategic Planning Committee. She’s currently serving as a Rock County Board Supervisor, representing District 13 and she’s a member of the Board of Directors of Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP).

Genia has been widely recognized for her leadership, service, and commitment to equity. She was named a finalist for the 2024 Social Justice Leader of the Year and has received numerous other honors, including being named a YWCA Rock County Woman of Distinction and one of Wisconsin’s Most Influential Black Leaders. She is also a recipient of the Beloit NAACP’s Community Service Award. In 2023, the Beloit Coalition of Churches honored her as a Groundbreaker and Trailblazer, and in March 2025, she was named Elected Official of the Year by the Democratic Party of Rock County.

Genia received a Bachelors from Beloit College and a Masters in Business Administration from Cardinal Stritch University.

Andrew Stevens, Digital Content Manager

Andrew plays a pivotal role in enhancing our online presence and engaging with our audience across various digital platforms. He is responsible for managing web development tasks, creating captivating video content, overseeing podcast production, developing and curating engaging social media content . He provides valuable marketing support, contributing to the overall success of Rock County Jumpstart’s initiatives.

Andrew comes to Rock County Jumpstart with 20 years experience in game development, being a self-taught game developer since the age of 9. He has 10 years experience in Digital Marketing, 8 years experience in web development, and 15 years experience in video editing. In his spare time, he enjoys 3D modeling and creating assets for video games.

Marisol Cardenas, Administrative Assistant

Marisol is a graduate of Cohort 5 of the Rock County Jumpstart Accelerator and the newest member of the Rock County Jumpstart team, serving as our Administrative Assistant. After building a career in the construction field, Marisol followed her passion for community care and launched her own death doula business. Her entrepreneurial journey reflects her deep commitment to service, compassion, and growth.

Marisol plays a vital role in keeping Rock County Jumpstart running smoothly. Her work behind the scenes is critical to our day-to-day operations and success, and her commitment to excellence helps us serve our entrepreneurs more effectively. As our Administrative Assistant, she handles critical responsibilities and serves as a key support to the Executive Director.

Rosa Solis, STEM Program Coordinator

Rosa Solis joins the Rock County Jumpstart team as our inaugural Jumpstart STEM Program Coordinator. She’s a Computer Science student at Beloit College, expected to graduate in 2026.  Rosa is fluent in English and Spanish.

Rosa has actively engaged in research, particularly in AI-related studies. As part of the McNair Scholars Program at Beloit College, she conducted a study under the guidance of Dr. Eyad Haj Said, analyzing whether LLM detectors can keep up with advancements in AI-generated text. This study demonstrates her ability to conduct high-level research and analyze AI models critically.

Rosa has received several certifications that have strengthened her credentials in technology and management. She is an accomplished computer science student and researcher with a strong academic record, hands-on research experience in AI, and solid project management skills. She is well-equipped for roles in AI research, software development, or project management, with a commitment to staying at the forefront of emerging technologies.

Advisory Board

• Wanda Sloan – Community Activist
• Lester Grace – Owner, Backyard Barbecue
• Barry Baderstercher – Retired, Badertscher Commercial Real Estate
• Kevin Leavy – Beloit City Council

Rock County Jumpstart is a fiscally sponsored project of Center for Community Stewardship, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.