Staff
Dr. Shareika Fisher
Executive Director The most inspiring part of my job is providing opportunities for the students we serve and being able to give back to the community of Wichita, which I value greatly. When I was younger, I was going to be an international superstar! The most important thing I learned in high school was you have to go after what you want, which I later learned was the first step in becoming a self-advocate. (316) 641-8015 RUFYexecdir@riseupforyouth.org |
David Gilkey
Co-Founder & Youth Champion: Brotherhood The most inspiring part of my job is seeing our student's lives change. When I was younger, I was pretty sure I'd be in the NFL. The most important thing I learned in high school was that it gets you ready for life. David is a member of the Wichita Gang Coalition and Real Men Real Heroes organization. He was nominated for NAACP Person of the Year 2008 and was a feature presenter at the 2010 Governor's Conference. (316) 833-3035 dgilkey@riseupforyouth.org |
Lynn Gilkey
Co-Founder & Youth Champion: Sisterhood The most inspiring part of my job is being in a position to make an impact in the lives of our students. When I was younger, I was pretty sure I'd be the person I needed when I was growing up. The most important thing I learned in high school was to stay true to yourself and don't be a follower. (316) 833-3224 lgilkey@riseupforyouth.org |
Parrishon Marshall
Administrative Assistant The most inspiring part of my job is walking into a space knowing the people you work with are there to guide our students and change their mindset from impossible to possible through dedication and hard work. When I was younger, I always knew I would be an Administrative Professional. The most important thing I learned in high school was that it's okay to be different or peculiar. I never went with the crowd, but because I respected the crowd, the crowd respected me. (316) 202-0228 pmarshall@riseupforyouth.org |
Bri Houston
Program Coordinator, Youth Champion: Sisterhood The most inspiring part of my job is providing opportunities that directly impact the youth that we serve through mentorship, community and support. I am passionate about making sure the next generation has all of the core tools necessary to have a full and successful life. When I was younger, I traveled many states as a liturgical dancer performing. Also I was a huge dare devil but then something about having children changes you and now I'm cautious about everything. LOL The most important thing I learned in high school was Its okay not to get it right sometimes, It's part of learning and growing. But don't stay there; get back up, learn from your mistakes and pray. The race is not given to the swift, nor to the strong but to the one who endures to the end. (316) 833-7231 bhouston@riseupforyouth.org |
Quayshawn Taylor
Youth Champion: Brotherhood The most inspiring part of my job is giving young people hope that was once hopeless. When I was younger, I knew I wanted to be a symbol of hope, and use my voice and actions to motivate the kids in my neighborhood. The most important thing I learned in high school was to learn how to bet and believe in my own capacities. (316) 833-2253 qtaylor@riseupforyouth.org |
S'ambrosia Wasike
Youth Champion: Sisterhood The most inspiring part of my job is watching students discover and embrace how amazing they truly are. When I was younger, I loved to express myself creatively through music, dance, drama and writing. The most important thing I learned in high school was every semester matters, not just your senior year. (316) 833-7070 swasike@riseupforyouth.org |
Emily Whiteside
Marketing and Development Coordinator The most inspiring part of my job is helping students tell their stories. I am always floored by the resilience and ingenuity of our students! When I was younger, I had mentors that poured into me even when I was an absolute pain to be around. Their wisdom got me through high school, college, and, now, motherhood. The most important thing I learned in high school was everybody deserves to be seen, and everybody has a story worth listening to. It's our job to keep our eyes and ears open. RUFYmarketing@riseupforyouth.org |
