Denver | Colorado Springs
Our Team
RiseUP Team
Camille joined the RiseUP Board in 2023. She formerly worked for Christian Living Communities where she served as the director of sales and marketing, executive director, and chief operating officer, and ended her tenure as their interim chief executive officer. During her time at CLC, she helped lead design and development, pre-sales, and the opening of new communities. One of Camille’s most notable accomplishments was launching Cappella Living Solutions, a third-party management company, in 2014. From 2014 to 2020, CLS enabled CLC to grow their portfolio from 3 CCRC’s (life plan communities) in the Denver market to 28 communities of 55+ active adult, IL, AL, MC and SNF across 7 states. Camille was also involved in the re-development of two of CLC’s owned CCRC’s. These projects ranged from $50MM-$80MM. Innovation and growth are Camille’s passion and she values her ability to bring these skills to her service at RiseUP, where the mission of love and service is deeply personal for her.
Camille hails from Texas, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Texas Tech University, but has called Denver, Colorado home for the past 17 years. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, deep sea fishing, and traveling.
Kathy Athens joined the RiseUP Board in 2024, bringing a wealth of expertise and dedication to her role. With a Bachelor’s in Nursing and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Colorado, Kathy’s academic background underscores her commitment to service and excellence.
With 37 years of experience in the field, including serving as the former Chief Operating Officer of Rocky Mountain Human Services, Kathy has dedicated her career to supporting individuals with intellectual disabilities and traumatic brain injuries. Her seven years as an independent consultant further demonstrate her deep understanding of the sector.
For Kathy, serving on the board at RiseUP is more than just a commitment—it’s a continuation of her lifelong mission to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities to live fulfilling lives. She finds immense fulfillment in contributing her knowledge and skills to an organization that shares her passion for advocacy and support.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Kathy remains actively engaged in her community. She volunteers as a reading tutor at an elementary school in Denver and is involved with the Kiwanis Club. In her leisure time, Kathy enjoys staying active with Pilates classes at her local YMCA.
Milt joined the RiseUP board in 2024. He holds a BA in Architecture and an MS in Structural Engineering from Iowa State University. For Milt, serving on the board of RiseUP is a reflection of his belief in empowering individuals within the IDD community to harness their unique gifts and abilities. Inspired by lessons learned from those within the IDD community, Milt finds fulfillment in contributing to an organization that mirrors the resilience and strength he admires.
Milt cherishes quality time with his family, especially his grandchildren and children. He finds fulfillment in caretaking at the Long Scraggy Mountain Conference Grounds, where nature’s serenity offers a welcome retreat. Additionally, Milt is an active member of his men’s study group, where he engages in meaningful discussions and fosters camaraderie.
Roger, a graduate of Calvin University, embarked on his journey with RiseUP Board in 2023, driven by a deep-seated desire to contribute to the organization’s enduring legacy of service.
Joining the board with a clear vision, Roger aspires to uphold and further the organization’s remarkable more than 50-year legacy of supporting individuals with neurodiversity, intellectual, and developmental disabilities. His dedication to this cause stems from a belief in the inherent worth and potential of every individual, a belief that drives him to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those served by RiseUP.
Roger finds joy in exploring new destinations through travel, cherishing precious moments with his family, and indulging in the culinary arts through his passion for cooking.
Bryan joined the board of RiseUP in January of 2022, eager to contribute his skills and passion to this meaningful cause. Prior to his service with RiseUP, he served as the President of the National Association of Fraternal Insurance Counselors for Colorado, Utah, and Wyoming from 2013 to 2016. Over the years, he has been actively involved in various stewardship committees and boards, including Our Father Lutheran Stewardship committee (2003-2015), So Jeffco Thrivent Chapter Board (2002-2013), Christian Living Communities Stewardship Board (2011-2015), and Christian Living Communities Board of Directors (2016).
For Bryan, serving on the RiseUP Board allows him to leverage his talents to raise essential funds for individuals in need of support with living arrangements, training, education, and above all, love. Outside of his board duties, he is an avid reader, always seeking to expand his knowledge and inspire those around him to utilize their talents to the fullest extent. He firmly believes that service to others is the true essence of a fulfilling life.
Ms. Woodard serves as President and Chief “N’Sights” Officer of Nina E. Woodard & Associates, a consulting firm she founded in 2008 to help organizations elevate leadership effectiveness and drive strategic business outcomes through people. Through executive coaching and strategic HR consulting, she partners with leaders to move beyond transactional HR practices and align talent, culture, and business strategy for sustainable success. Her global experience—spanning India, Thailand, Southeast Asia, and the Americas—enables her to guide organizations in navigating cultural complexity, strengthening leadership capability, and building high-performance workplaces.
Ms. Woodard is a Lecturer at the University of Arizona Global Campus and part of the lecturer pool at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. With more than three decades of experience in banking and human resources, she has served as a trusted Strategic HR Business Partner to senior leaders and executives, supporting both daily operations and enterprise-wide transformation.
She currently serves as Board Chair for Safe Place for Pets, Vice Chair, RiseUP, Secretary for SHRM Southern Colorado, and Professional Development Director for SHRM California. In 2025, she was honored with the inaugural SHRM California “Nina E. Woodard Legacy of Giving Award,” recognizing her decades of service and impact within the HR profession.
Donna joined RiseUP in June of 2021, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for community empowerment. With a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from UCCS and completion of the NOLS course in 2004, Donna has navigated a dynamic career path, including notable roles in organizations such as Developmental Pathways, Rocky Mountain Human Services-Life Skills and Support, and Laradon.
At RiseUP, Donna finds profound fulfillment in witnessing people flourish. Whether its students graduating from Rise Up school, adults mastering culinary skills in day programs, or staff members ascending to new heights in their careers, Donna cherishes the opportunity to witness personal growth and resilience. Her commitment to empowerment, growth, and service is a driving force for positive community impact within RiseUP and beyond.
Outside of the office, Donna finds solace and joy in the great outdoors, indulging in hiking, biking, kayaking, and cultivating her garden. She treasures moments spent with loved ones spread across the country and eagerly embraces the opportunity to forge connections with new community partners as she reconnects with her roots in Colorado Springs after 21 years in Denver.
As the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of RiseUP since January 2003, Lynette brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the mission of enhancing the lives of individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). With a passion for creating inclusive environments and empowering those with diverse needs, Lynette plays a pivotal role in driving the strategic vision and operational excellence of the organization.
With a background in nonprofit leadership, Lynette has spent 40 years honing her expertise in effectively managing programs and services tailored to the unique needs of individuals with IDD. Lynette’s commitment to innovation and continuous improvement ensures that RiseUP remains at the forefront of providing high-quality care and support.
At RiseUP, Lynette oversees a multifaceted range of operations, from program development and implementation to resource allocation and staff management. Lynette’s collaborative leadership style fosters a culture of teamwork and excellence, empowering staff members to deliver compassionate and person-centered care to every individual served.
Prioritizing stakeholder engagement and community partnerships, Lynette works tirelessly to advocate for the rights and inclusion of individuals with IDD, both locally and state-wide. Through strategic collaborations with government agencies, advocacy groups, and other stakeholders, she strives to create systemic change and advance the cause of disability rights.
Outside of her role at RiseUP, Lynette is actively involved as a Guardian for two individuals with developmental disabilities, where she lends her expertise to furthering the mission of supporting individuals with IDD and their teams. Lynette enjoys reading, the outdoors, and getting together with friends.
Driven by a deep sense of compassion and a commitment to social justice, Lynette is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve. Lynette’s leadership at Rise Up is instrumental in realizing the vision of a more inclusive and equitable society for individuals of all abilities.
Heather Kijanka is a seasoned Human Resources professional with a passion for fostering positive workplace cultures and maximizing employee potential. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County, Heather brings a deep understanding to the role as the Chief Human Resources Officer. She also has her PHR certification through the HRCI.
Heather has been with RiseUP since November 2021. As the Chief Human Resources Officer, Heather is dedicated to creating an inclusive and supportive work environment where every employee feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Heather is passionate about giving back to the community and is actively involved in various philanthropic initiatives and enjoys the outdoors. In her spare time, you can find her in the mountains, skiing, hiking, or mountain biking.
Thomas Carlson is the Chief Development Officer at RiseUP, where he utilizes his entrepreneurial background and passion for community building to help tell the organization’s impactful story. With over two decades of experience founding seven businesses across various industries, Thomas brings a strategic, results-driven approach to RiseUP’s development initiatives. His journey also includes a long-standing commitment to working with disadvantaged populations, from entrepreneurs in the developing world to troubled youth, and he is excited to now focus on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and neurodiverse populations.
With a strong entrepreneurial foundation, Thomas is particularly skilled in vision casting and relationship-building. At RiseUP, he is dedicated to crafting and sharing an authentic narrative that communicates the organization’s 52-year history and transformative impact. He works closely with the leadership team to drive fundraising efforts and ensure the organization’s story resonates with potential supporters, expanding RiseUP’s mission and reach within the community.
Thomas’s extensive overseas experience, including his work in the Middle East and travel to over 55 countries, informs his ability to connect with people from diverse cultures. His global perspective provides fresh insights into how RiseUP can continue to grow and thrive, fostering deeper connections with both local and international communities. He is excited to help RiseUP make an even greater impact in the future.
Jerbonian joined RiseUP in 2023. With 18 years of experience in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) field, she appreciates that there’s never a dull moment. Having traversed the IDD system for many years, she has witnessed both its challenges and triumphs, and the profound impact it has on the lives of the individuals served. This firsthand experience fuels her pursuit of excellence in best practices, as she is driven by the desire to make a difference in their lives.
Being part of the RiseUP team is a source of immense fulfillment for Jerbonian. She is grateful to be surrounded by colleagues who share a genuine concern for the well-being of the individuals served and who are deeply committed to enhancing their lives. She feels united by the belief that every individual deserves not just to live, but to thrive in an environment that is supportive and enhancing and considers it a privilege to contribute to this shared mission and to be part of a team that is dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.
Calena joined the RiseUP team in 2021 with a passion for making a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For Calena, working at RiseUP is more than just a job—it’s a calling that brings her immense joy. She finds fulfillment in witnessing the transformative power of RiseUP’s services, which empower individuals to achieve their goals. Through these experiences, she believes in fostering understanding, providing guidance, and helping individuals discover their purpose, enabling them to lead fulfilling lives. Beyond her professional endeavors, Calena’s interests extend to the great outdoors, where she enjoys exploring, camping, and embarking on new and unique adventures.
Teri joined the RiseUP team in August of 2022. Her experience began in 1996, when she started her career working at a large institution serving adults with IDD.
Teri navigated her career from Direct Support to Management, Administration, and Compliance. She is a Certified Investigator of Serious Incidents through Labor Relations Consultants and has a foundation in Special Education and Behavioral Science from her undergraduate studies at Bethany College. Teri also holds certifications to train Adult and Pediatric First Aid/CPR/AED from the American Red Cross.
At RiseUP, Teri’s joy comes from seeing the individuals served realize and fight for their aspirations, hopes and dreams. She loves that they are supported by creative, collaborative and talented teams at RiseUP! At the core of Teri’s passion is taking a role where she encourages each individual to articulate their voice and pursue their dreams, empowering them to seek lifelong autonomy.
Beyond her professional endeavors, Teri maintains a spirit of gratitude and finds fulfillment supporting people before, during and after bariatric surgery as well. She enjoys the company of her friends and loved ones, including her husband, daughter, son, and beloved Yorkie, Peanut. Together, they enjoy hiking, biking, indulging in good coffee, and exploring new destinations. As avid sports enthusiasts, they also share a passion for college basketball, the NBA, football, and volleyball.
Sandra Dunlap joined RiseUP in 2023 with a profound commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. For Sandra, working at RiseUP is not just a job—it’s a meaningful opportunity to give back to a community close to her heart. Her passion for helping individuals achieve success, regardless of their limitations, drives her every day. Sandra finds immense fulfillment in contributing to an organization that prioritizes the well-being and empowerment of its constituents.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Sandra enjoys a variety of hobbies, including gardening, cooking, and fishing. Additionally, she actively supports causes dear to her, particularly organizations dedicated to serving military personnel and veterans.
Jodie Marquez has 30 plus years working with disabilities and elder care.
She started with Special Education while completing her degree and worked in special education for 13 years.
She obtained her nursing degree and worked in the medical field for behavioral nursing home facilities.
She then moved to mental and behavioral health to work in the community of IDD and has loved it ever since.
Jodie has been with RiseUP for almost 7 years starting a temporary position of medical coordinator, then moving to Operations Director where she stayed until moving to New Mexico in May of 2023.
She is currently Senior Director of RCCF Programming, Intake and Referral and oversees Medical Services.
Kathy Stults, M.Ed has been working in special education for 51 years. She started her career in Detroit and moved to Colorado Springs, where she spent 32 years in District 11 as a special education teacher and principal. Kathy also spent time at Griffith Centers for Children as the educational director and went on to found the Wildflower Ranch School, a residential treatment facility for girls rescued from sex-trafficking. She owned a daycare center in Green Mountain Falls for 22 years. In 2014, Kathy joined RiseUP, where she currently serves as the School Principal and Director of Education. She is a volunteer of thirty years for the Rocky Mountain Women’s Film Festival, where she shares her expertise as the development officer and spearheaded fundraising and engagement for the Youth Documentary Academy for ten years.
Jenniffer joined the RiseUP team in 2023, bringing with her a commitment to easing administrative burdens for marginalized communities. With a passion for making a tangible difference, Jenniffer sees her role at RiseUP as an opportunity to alleviate the bureaucratic challenges and information gaps faced by underserved communities. Her favorite aspect of working for RiseUP lies in the ability to contribute to a more streamlined and accessible system, ultimately empowering people. Outside of her professional endeavors, Jenniffer cherishes moments with her family, travel, and reading.
Don’Neice joined the RiseUP team in 2014 with a passion for empowering individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. With a dedicated history as a paraprofessional at the RiseUP School and with certifications as a Safety Cares Instructor and as a First Aid/CPR Instructor, she brings a wealth of expertise in ensuring the well-being of those around her.
Throughout her tenure at RiseUP, Don’Neice has found immense fulfillment in witnessing the growth and prosperity of the individuals she serves. Her commitment to fostering an environment where everyone can thrive has been a driving force in her career. Outside of her professional endeavors, Don’Neice finds joy in scenic drives, supporting her community, quality time with her children, and skating.
Jason has been with RiseUP since October 2023 and has over 30 years of combined experience working, volunteering, and coaching in the non-profit sector, including: 25 years with the YMCA, three years with Head Start, several years with the Chamber of Commerce & EDC, Centura Health, the American Payroll Association, Colorado Parks/Wildlife and the Ute Pass Historical Society. This experience includes working in positions of: HR, Risk, Safety, Disaster & Recovery/Emergency Management Planning, Payroll, Accounts Payable, Property Management, IT/Database Management, Bear-Aware Instructor, Preschool Teacher, and as a Registered Medical Assistant/EKG Technician.
Jason holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Health Care Administration and was awarded a Master’s Degree in Heath Care Management/Human Resources Management in 1998.
He enjoys spending time in the Colorado outdoors with his son, daughter, and two grandchildren. Jason also enjoys weightlifting, hiking, fishing, kayaking, camping, riding motorcycles, Colorado history, family genealogy, and photography.