board of directors
jorge castaÑeda, Board chair
FOUNDER AND OWNER OF CASTAÑEDA LAW
“I RISE because I believe that no matter where you came from or how you got here, education is always the great equalizer.”
Elisa Overall
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF COLORADO ACCESS TO JUSTICE COMMISSION
“I RISE because our families deserve to soar."
Michelle Culver
CO-FOUNDER OF THE SYSTEMS LEARNING LAB
“I RISE because every child deserves an education that sets her up to create and shape the future for herself and for all of us. Our students and families are central in shaping the agenda for systemic transformation.”
Idrissa Simmonds-Nastili
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AT THE PAHARA INSTITUTE
“I RISE because of the immigrant women and men who raised me to trust and stand brave in my power.”
Advisory board
Amanda Fernandez
CEO AND FOUNDER OF LATINOS FOR EDUCATION
“I RISE because education provides our children the opportunity to decide their own destiny. I believe parents are a child’s first teacher and as a parent, best equipped to ensure their children are not only loved but academically prepared for the future. Our families deserve to be empowered to serve as fierce advocates.”
frances messano
CEO AT NEW SCHOOL VENTURE FUND
“I RISE because I believe that a great education is a fundamental right and that children should be able to attend a high-quality school in their neighborhood that enables them to realize their dreams. I RISE because I believe the genius to achieve this reality exists in communities of color across the country and our job is to nurture and support it.”
Jill Hawley
VICE PRESIDENT OF PHILANTHROPY AT GARY COMMUNITY VENTURES
“I RISE because creating a just, equitable, and high quality education system is key to enabling all people to lead healthy and productive lives. Bringing such a system into existence requires that we center and harness the incredible power, lived experiences, and engagement of students and their families.”
brianna twofoot
NATIONAL ORGANIZING DIRECTOR AT PLANNED PARENTHOOD FEDERATION OF AMERICA & THE PLANNED PARENTHOOD ACTION FUND
“I RISE because people closest to a problem should shape its solution and because I love my people, who are Mexican-Americans who only want the best for their kids.”