This project reimagines stepping as an inclusive, educational tool that unites individuals across racial and cultural lines while fostering resistance, pride, and transformation. Through movement and rhythm, members reclaim identity and humanity within the carceral system. The G*S.T.A.R.Z. step team uses art to bridge prisons and colleges through mentorship and performance. The video you are about to view demonstrates humanity and transformation through the power of movement and collective expression. This video was previously featured at the Arts in Action Festival in New York on September 10, 2023. The academic achievements of the steppers range from Associates to Masters degrees.

About Tami Eldridge

Founder of the G*Star Steppers (2016), Tami Eldridge has been incarcerated for 26 years and continues to empower others through education and art. She is currently pursuing her second master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Leadership at Adams State University and plans to develop this model into an accredited graduate-level curriculum.

G*S.T.A.R.Z. College Step Team 

Girls/Guys Stepping Toward A Rehabilitation Zone 

• Tami Eldridge – Founder – M.A. 2024, New York Theological Seminary & Adams State University
• Lee Ann Armanini – Stage Manager – Degree Pending, Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Michele Graham – Poet – M.A., Union Theological Seminary
• Nedra “Nene” Jones – B.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• D. “Fyve” Cochrane – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Latonia “Shelly” Stewart – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Shynice “Shy” Waldropt – Degree Pending, Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Zarah Coombs – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Shenia Williams – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Natalie “Aminah” Johnson – M.A., Union Theological Seminary
• S. “Rabbit” Patterson – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Anna Thomas – A.A., Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus
• Devonnee “Phoenix” Wilkerson – Degree Pending, Marymount Manhattan College, Bedford Hills Campus