Meet the Team

At New Vision Research, we pride ourselves on being a close-knit group of dedicated professionals. Our small team embodies versatility, each of us wearing many hats. We believe in the power of collaboration, creativity, and adaptability.  Every team member plays a crucial role in our collective success. 

Joseph Helpern has 36 years of experience as a physicist. He currently sits on the Boards of Cynvec and New Vision Research. As a Member (elected) of the National Academy of Inventors, he was involved with the establishment of the field of MRI. Dr. Helpern was a Professor at New York University School of Medicine and was the founding Director of the Center for Biomedical Imaging.  Dr. Helpern received his PhD from Oakland University, his MA (organic chemistry) from The University of North Carolina, and his BA from Case Western Reserve University.

Stefanie Ponte is a multifaceted professional with a diverse background in journalism and marketing. After a career working as a reporter, Stefanie transitioned to the nonprofit sector, joining New Vision Research as the content coordinator and has since transitioned to be the Program Manager, overseeing the organization’s operations under the director’s guidance. Stefanie enjoys mountain climbing, and sand volleyball.  Additionally, she loves spending time with her Giant Schnauzer, Nova.

Tara Coker brings a unique blend of sociological insight and marketing expertise to our team. Tara graduated from the College of Charleston with a BA in Sociology and a minor in Crime, Law, and Society. Her career journey began in radio in Charleston, SC, where she transitioned from a Marketing Consultant to a Digital Content Coordinator, then to a Promotions Coordinator, and eventually to the role of Promotions Director. Tara enjoys traveling, hiking, bird watching, live music shows, and spending time with her two wonderful dogs Edisto and Hunley.

Joseph Helpern

DIRECTOR

Stefanie Ponte

PROGRAM MANAGER

Tara Coker

MARKETING COORDINATOR

Ivan Cuadra is a skilled software developer with a strong background in computer science and mathematics. He excels in full-stack development, particularly JavaScript, TypeScript, and frameworks like React. His programming expertise includes C, C++, and Java. Ivan graduated from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Before his academic achievements, Ivan served five years in the United States Marine Corps. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

Sarah is a skilled marketing manager and graphic designer with over 7 years of experience. She began her career as an art director at a large advertising agency but quickly fell in love with the nonprofit sector. She worked at various nonprofits in the medical, arts, and university sectors. Sarah graduated from Michigan State University with a BA in Advertising and a minor in Graphic Design and is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at Grand Valley State University. Sarah enjoys traveling, attending concerts, and playing team sports.

Ivan Cuadra is a skilled software developer with a strong background in computer science and mathematics. He excels in full-stack development, particularly JavaScript, TypeScript, and frameworks like React. His programming expertise includes C, C++, and Java. Ivan graduated from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Before his academic achievements, Ivan served five years in the United States Marine Corps. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

Ivan Cuadra

SOFTWARE DEVELOPER

Sarah Cochrane

GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Tara Coker

MARKETING COORDINATOR

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