In the midst of chaos, listen for the whisper. Remember how our grandmothers prayed, low and steady, intentional and sacred. The prophetic whisper is within us. It has traveled through generations of women who discern God’s voice beneath the noise of empire and the weight of expectation.
The whisper awakens memory when the world tries to make us forget. The whisper is where strategy is born and clarity is restored. The whisper is where ancestors nod in agreement with the Spirit of the Living God. May you never forget the power of the whisper and your VOICE.
You are speaking with generations behind you and possibilities ahead of you.
Rev. Brittini L. Palmer RISE Conference Coordinator
Dear Sisters
Welcome to the 2026 RISE Together Biennial Conference, The Power of Our Voices and the Telling of our Stories, With Prophetic Whispers, a hush harbor experience of Sacred SistahingTM and a call to an enduring Ubuntu community.
We welcome each of you to a thought-provoking community holding where women in ministry are seen, heard, and appreciated. We will not hide, deny, or allow others to define or shape our narrative. Come, be encouraged, break the silence, and speak your truth… “Even when they call your truth a lie, tell it anyway!”
Across 12 regions, RISE cohort members are asking questions and seeking answers. Against the odds, we are here, together, meeting this Kairos moment with the power of our voices and the telling of our stories anchored in the audacity to hope, and walk in truth.
There is an urgency of now, and the Spirit of the Lord is upon us. Let us learn from each other and bring forth our collective wisdom around the issues of the day, including trauma healing, leading in the public square, prophetic preaching, Sabbath rest, maternal and child health, community organizing, and much more… With divine clarity, prophetic whispers, and authentic sisterhood, we shall live into the spirit of faith over fear, and amplify the sociopolitical refrain of Maya Angelou’s poetic reassurance, “I SHALL NOT BE MOVED.”
You have arrived, and we, the RISE leadership, Conference Planning Team, Volunteers, and Cohort members are glad you are here.
Zulu Greeting
“We see you, We value you, We appreciate your presence and humanity, You are important to us”
With gratitude and expectation,
Rev. Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes Executive Director,
The Power of Our Voices & the Telling of Our Stories
with
PROPHETIC Whispers
DAY 1
11:00AM - 1:00PM
1:00PM – 5:30 PM
DAY 2
9:00AM – 1:00PM
9:30AM – 1:30PM
March 11 - 14, 2026 | Atlanta, GA
CONFERENCE AGENDA
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026
Pre-Conference Empowerment Sessions LOCATION
Early On-Site Registration Hilton Atlanta Lobby Area
1:00PM – 6:00PM Trauma Healing Institute
Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones
Founder | Faith on the Journey Hilton Atlanta Room 401
Leading in the Public Square
Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Smallwood
Dean and Vice-President of Academic Affairs | United Lutheran Seminary
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026
Ebenezer Baptist Church Cyber Cafe
Pre-Conference Empowerment Sessions LOCATION
Trauma Healing Institute
Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones
Founder | Faith on the Journey Hilton Atlanta Room 401
Leading in the Public Square
Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Smallwood
Dean and Vice-President of Academic Affairs | United Lutheran Seminary
Ebenezer Baptist Church Cyber Cafe
3:00PM – 6:00PM Registration Lobby Area
3:00PM – 6:00PM Vendor and Sponsor Showcase Crystal Ballroom
6:00PM – 9:00PM Womanist Winedown
A Womanist Call to Gather
Reverend Mia M. McClain
4 | RISE Together Network. The Power of Our Voices and the Telling of Our Stories with Prophetic Whispers National Conference NATIONAL CONFERENCE
Pastor | Riverside Baptist Church | DC
Meaning of the Moment
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes
Executive Director | RISE Together Mentorship Network | New York/Atlanta
Ms. Sally Vonner
General Secretary/CEO | United Women in Faith
Welcome to the Living Room
Setting the Table
Ms. Tameka Bell
Director of Special Projects | Ebenezer Baptist Church | Atlanta
Artistic Expression
“Won’t You Celebrate With Me” by Lucille Clifton
Ms. Pamela Y. Greer
RISE Lancaster/Northern California Cohort Crystal Ballroom
DAY 2
THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026 (CONT.) LOCATION
Girlfriends: Just Between US
Finding Authentic Sisterhood - Sacred Conversations and Truth Telling
Reverend Traci D. Blackmon
Lead Catalyst | Faith Out-Loud
Reverend Dr. Karen Anderson
Pastor | First African Methodist Episcopal Church | Las Vegas
Minister Stephanie M. Frierson
Critical Care | Community Health Nurse
Musical Moment
Psalmist Ashley L. Broadwater
Founder | Sonata Sessions | Atlanta
7:45PM – 8:30PM Reception
8:30PM – 9:30PM Womanist Whispers After Dark
Reverend Dr. Diane A. Bogues
Associate Dean of Students | Iliff School of Theology
Reverend Dr. Yvette Blair-Lavallais
Adjunct Professor | Memphis Theological Seminary
Reverend Brittini L. Palmer
Founder | Black Women Write for Freedom
Community Service Project
Reverend Rochelle Andrews Pastor
Public Theologian & Policy Advocate | Maryland
Reverend Dr. Patricia Gould-Champ
Associate Professor of Theology | Samuel DeWitt Proctor | School of Theology | Richmond
Crystal Ballroom Foyer
Crystal Ballroom
DAY 3
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 LOCATION
7:00AM – 8:15AM Registration | Breakfast (On Your Own)
8:30AM – 10:00AM Daughters of Thunder: The Power of Our Voices Worship Experience
Worship Coordinator
Reverend Veronice Miles, PhD
Mary Elizabeth McGehee Joyce Professor of Preaching | Wesley Theological Seminary | DC
Artist-In-Residence
Reverend Mia M. McClain
Pastor | Riverside Baptist Church | DC
Call to Worship
Minister Dr. Nathalina Rogers-Tolbert
Associate Minister | Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church | South Carolina
Congregational Song of Praise
Scripture Reading Luke 4:16-21
Reverend Gwen R. Aldridge
Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Counselor | Atrium Hospice | California
Crystal Ball Room Atlanta Hilton
Crystal Ball Room
Atlanta Hilton
DAY 3
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026
(CONT.)
Prayer
Reverend Tiffany Burch
Founder | What is the Bible Study? | Atlanta
Introduction of Preachers
Reverend Dwylene Butler
Program Associate | Katie Geneva Cannon Center for Womanist Leadership | Virginia
Artistic Expression
Reverend Eyesha K. Marable
Pastor | Mt. Zion AME Church | Milburn
Daughter of Thunder Proclamation 1
Minister Naomi Johnson
Sermon: Anointed to Sparkle | Luke 4:18-19
Assistant Director | Sunburst School of Music | Pittsburgh
Musical Selection
Daughter of Thunder Proclamation 2
Reverend Tamara Ravelo
Sermon: Marked For More | Luke 4:18-22
Senior Pastor | Indian Orchard Covenant Church | Massachusetts
Musical Selection
Daughter of Thunder Proclamation 3
Reverend Tiffany Brooks
Sermon Title: Sailing On Dry Land | Isaiah 61:1-11
Organizing Manager of Students and Youth Children’s Defense Fund | DC
Worshipful Response
Prayer of Affirmation
Rev. Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes
Executive Director | RISE Together Mentorship Network | New York/Atlanta
LOCATION
10:15AM – 11:30AM
11:30AM – 2:00PM
Black Women Rising: Claiming Our Space and Unleashing Our Prophetic Imagination
Introduction of Speakers
Reverend Chenda Innis Lee
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary | Pittsburgh
Poetic Offering
Minister Ayesha Edwards
Founder, theWoman theWisdom theWonder & Global Love Movement
Moderator: Reverend Natosha Reid Rice
Minister for Public Life | Vice President | Habitat for Humanity International
Reverend Traci D. Blackmon
Lead Catalyst For Faith Out-Loud
Reverend Neichelle R. Guidry, PhD
Dean of Chapel | Director of WISDOM Center | Spelman College
Reverend Brittini L. Palmer
Founder | Black Women Write For Freedom
Lunch on Your Own
Ebenezer Baptist Church (Doors Open at 1:00PM)
DAY 3
FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 (CONT.)
2:15PM – 9:00PM Womanist Call to Gather
Introduction of Speaker
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes
Executive Director | RISE Together Mentorship Network | New York/Atlanta
Welcome
Minister Dominique King
Pastor of Communications and Ebenezer Everywhere
2:30 PM – 3:45 PM Womanist Master Class: Prophetic Preaching In Times Like These
Reverend Teresa Fry Brown, PhD
Brandy Professor of Preaching | Candler School of Theology | Atlanta
4:00PM – 5:15PM Concurrent Workshops
5:30 PM – 6:45PM Awards Dinner
WELCOME
Womanists of Ceremony
Reverend La Tonja Ellis
Pastor | Grant AME | Chicago
Dr. Josie Hoover
Director of Human Resources/Title IX Co-Coordinator
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary | Pittsburgh
Blessing
Minister Diana L. Cabezas, PhD
Senior Monitoring and Evaluation Specialist | Compassion International | New York City
DINNER
2026 RISE AWARDS CEREMONY
Trailblazer Awards & Distinguished Leader Awards
Remarks & Announcements
7:00PM – 9:00PM Graduation and Induction Program
Womanist of Ceremony
Reverend Andrea D. Lewis, PhD
Pastor | Holly Grove AME Church | Peachtree City
PROCESSION
Metropolitan Atlanta
African Dancers and Drummers
Prayer
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Robinson
Pastor | Christ Church United Methodist | Paterson
Spoken Word
Elder Dr. Tiffany M. Stubbs
Pharmacist and Hospital Chaplain | Birmingham
Ebenezer Church Fellowship Hall
Ebenezer Church Sanctuary
DAY 3 FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 (CONT.) LOCATION
Introduction of Speaker
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes
Executive Director | RISE Together Mentorship Network | New York/Atlanta
Musical Offering
Guest Preacher
Reverend Maisha I. Handy, PhD
President | McCormick Theological Seminary Graduation and Induction
Womanists of Ceremony
Elder Tonetta Collins
Executive Pastor | Bibleway Ministries International | Atlanta
Reverend Dr. Myrna Thurman-Malone
Clinical Director | MHT Family Life Center | Atlanta
Presentation of Cohorts, Mentors, and Graduates
Cords of Sisterhood
RISE Mentor Leadership Team
Presentation of Certificates
Atlanta, GA
Charleston, South Carolina
Charlotte, NC / Richmond, VA
Chicago, IL
Lancaster, PA / Northern California
Nashville, TN
New York, NY
Pittsburgh, PA Washington, DC
Induction and Pinning Ceremony
Announcement of New Cohort
Boston University School of Theology
Alumnae Charge and Covenant
Reverend Cassandra A. Henderson
Executive Director | Interfaith Children’s Movement | Atlanta Announcements
Acknowledge Network Mentors and RISE Alumnae
Prayerful Reading
Reverend Dr. Wanda K. Paulk Holder
Associate Minister | First Baptist Church East Point | East Point
Closing Song
DAY 4
SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026
LOCATION
7:00AM – 8:00AM Breakfast Crystal Ball Room Atlanta Hilton
8:15AM – 10:15AM Morning Glory Worship Service
Womanist Worship Leader
Reverend Mia M. McClain
Psalmist Ashley L. Broadwater
Scripture Reading Isaiah 61: 1-3
Reverend Charlene A. Wingate
Support Minister Worship and the Arts | The Riverside Church | New York City
Prayer
Reverend Dr. Jacqueline Y. Lynch
Pastor | Mt. Olive AME Church | New York City
Introduction of Preacher
Dr. Yvette Blair-Lavallais
Adjunct Professor | Memphis Theological Seminary | Tennessee Musical Selection
The Preaching Moment
Reverend Dr. Gina M. Stewart
Pastor | Christ Missionary Baptist Church | Memphis | Tennessee Worshipful Response
10:15AM – 10:45AM Break
10:45 AM – 11:45AM Intergenerational Prophetic Whispers: Listening Session
12:00 PM
Closing Gathering
Artists-in-Residence
Reverend Mia M. McClain
Psalmist Ashley L. Broadwater
Literary Excerpt and Prayer
Reverend LouEtta Burkins
Hope Church | Memphis
Minister Linda J. Edwards
Greenforest Baptist Church | Decatur
Scripture Reading | Isaiah 61:1-2
Deaconess Karen A. Middleton
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church | South Carolina Congregational Song
The Prophetic Charge: For Such a Time as This Reverend Cynthia L. Hale
Pastor | Ray of Hope Christian Church | Decatur Worshipful Moment
Blessing, Prayer, and Send-Off
SPEAKERS
Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones
Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones is a Master Facilitator with the Trauma Healing Institute and the Founder of Faith on the Journey, a national ministry dedicated to equipping churches in Christian trauma-informed care. She is a respected practitioner who has guided leaders and congregations across the country in developing faithful, compassionate responses to trauma. An ordained minister and Certified Grief Counselor with dual master’s degrees in Social Work and Theological Studies, she uniquely bridges the worlds of faith and mental health to empower churches in responding to trauma with both care and competence.
Reverend Teresa L. Smallwood, JD, Ph.D.
Reverend Teresa L. Smallwood, JD, Ph.D., is a licensed and ordained elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and serves as Associate Professor of Public Theology and Vice-President and Dean of Academic Affairs at United Lutheran Seminary. She earned a B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a Juris Doctor from North Carolina Central University School of Law, a Master of Divinity from Howard University School of Divinity, and a Ph.D. from Chicago Theological Seminary. She previously served as Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate Director of the Public Theology and Racial Justice Collaborative at Vanderbilt Divinity School. She is the author of the recently released Public Theology and Violent Rhetoric Examined in a Queer Womanist Critical Ethnography.
Reverend Dr. Karen Anderson
Reverend Dr. Karen Anderson is a passionate preacher, dedicated community advocate, and proud servant of Jesus Christ. After beginning her ministry in St. Louis, MO, she made history in 2019 as the first woman pastor of First African Methodist Episcopal Church in Las Vegas, where she continues to lead with courage and conviction. Renowned for her commitment to empowering others—particularly women—she inspires her congregation by actively sharing and living out the liberating message of God’s unconditional love.
Tameka Bell
Tameka Bell is Director of Special Projects at Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta. A nationally recognized communications and organizing leader, she brings more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of faith, storytelling, and justice-centered campaigns. She has led communications and strategy for national movements, including the March for Black Women and Let My People Vote, a campaign that helped restore voting rights to 1.4 million returning citizens in Florida. She is a seasoned trainer who has worked with more than 1,000 grassroots, clergy, and nonprofit leaders nationwide, helping faith communities develop moral narrative, public voice, and organizing power.
Reverend Traci D. Blackmon
Reverend Traci D. Blackmon is a nationally recognized pastor, public theologian, and justice advocate whose ministry bridges the sacred and civic. Ordained in the United Church of Christ, she rose to prominence in St. Louis following the killing of Michael Brown. She has appeared on CNN, MSNBC, NPR, and in The Washington Post, proclaiming justice in historic Black churches, global gatherings, and the public square. Rev. Blackmon is founder of The Prophetic Convening, Central Region Chaplain for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Lead Catalyst for Faith Out-Loud!, a national initiative mobilizing the prophetic witness of the Black Church to move people from belief to embodied action toward a democracy where all thrive.
Minister Stephanie M. Frierson
Minister Stephanie M. Frierson is a native of Brooklyn, NY. Serving at the intersection of faith and healthcare, she is committed to uplifting and empowering marginalized voices, particularly within medicine and the church. Stephanie works as a Critical Care ICU and Community Health nurse. She collaborates with community and city organizations to educate and provide essential services to underserved populations disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS. With a heart grounded in service, Stephanie embodies resilience, faith, and compassion, and is pursuing her Master of Divinity at Candler School of Theology.
Reverend Teresa Fry Brown, Ph.D.
Reverend Teresa Fry Brown, Ph.D., is a nationally respected preacher, professor, and leader in homiletics and practical theology. She is the Bandy Professor of Preaching at Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and has shaped generations of ministers through her scholarship and mentorship. An ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Dr. Fry Brown brings decades of pastoral, denominational, and academic leadership to her work. She is a prolific author and editor whose publications focus on preaching, worship, womanist theology, and the lived faith experiences of Black communities.Through her scholarship and proclamation, Dr. Fry Brown continues to expand the field of preaching with depth, justice-centered insight, and theological imagination.
Reverend Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ
Reverend Dr. Patricia A. Gould-Champ is founding visionary and former Senior Pastor of Faith Community Baptist Church in Richmond, VA, where she served for 28 years. She is a tenured Associate Professor of Theology and Chair of the Master of Divinity Program at Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, where she has taught for 30 years. She has served as Moderator of the Shiloh Baptist Association and President of the Baptist General Convention of Virginia. She is a recipient of the 2023 UNCF Keeper of the Flame Award, the 2024 President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, and the 2025 Henrico County Distinguished Community Service Award.
Reverend Neichelle R. Guidry, Ph.D.
Reverend Neichelle R. Guidry, Ph.D., serves as Dean of the Chapel and Director of the WISDOM Center at Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. A womanist homiletician, certified coach, and founder of Flourish From Within, LLC, she walks with Black women of faith as they cultivate deeper spiritual wellness and vocational clarity. She is the author of Curating a World: Sermonic Words from a Young Woman Who Preaches. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Divinity from Yale Divinity School. She completed her Ph.D. in Liturgical Studies, with a concentration in Homiletics, at Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, and lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband and their son.
Reverend Maisha Handy Ph.D.
Reverend Maisha Handy Ph.D., is an administrator, pastor, scholar, and activist committed to education, justice, and liberation. A Chicago native, she earned degrees from Lincoln University (MO) and Emory University, becoming the first African American woman to receive a Ph.D. in Religion (Theology & Personality) from Emory’s Graduate Division of Religion. In 2024, she was named President of McCormick Theological Seminary, the institution’s first African American president. A longtime leader at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Dr. Handy is a womanist scholar, founding pastor of Rize Community Church in Atlanta, and a prophetic voice shaping theological education and the Black church.
Reverend Dr. Cynthia L. Hale
Reverend Dr. Cynthia L. Hale is the founding and Senior Pastor of Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, Georgia, and has been preaching for over 50 years. In 2004, she founded ELAH Pastoral Ministries, Inc., mentoring pastors and para-church leaders, and in 2005 convened her first Women in Ministry Conference. She serves as Chairperson of the IC3 Conference Board and on the boards of Hollins University, UNCF NFEI, and Welcome.US, and is an emeritus member of Duke Divinity School’s Board of Visitors. She holds degrees from Hollins College, Duke University, and United Theological Seminary. She received the 2023 Duke Distinguished Alumni Award and is a Lifetime member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.
Reverend Cassandra A. Henderson
Reverend Cassandra A. Henderson is the Executive Director of the Interfaith Children’s Movement, a statewide, multi-faith advocacy organization working to ensure all children in Georgia thrive. Under her leadership, ICM has grown into a robust grassroots movement with partnerships across more than 80 faith communities and has raised over $1 million. Rev. Henderson is an ordained minister, educator, and organizer with more than a decade of experience bridging theology, public policy, and community engagement. She serves as an Adjunct Instructor at Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and is the Child Development Specialist for the Sankofa Faith Children’s Initiative.
Reverend Dr. Leah D. Jackson
Reverend Dr. Leah D. Jackson is a preacher, pastor, educator, writer, and dancer, ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) by Ray of Hope Christian Church where she currently serves as an associate minister. An attorney licensed in Georgia, Jackson specializes in Technology and Intellectual Property law. She serves as the Grant Program Director for the Reimagining Tomorrow Initiative and Adjunct Professor at McAfee School of Theology, Spelman College, and Lexington Theological Seminary. Rev. Leah received a Bachelor of Arts in Public Policy with a focus in Child Advocacy from Spelman College, a Juris Doctor in 2005, Master of Divinity in 2012, and Doctor of Ministry in 2025 from Mercer University.
Reverend Veronice Miles, Ph.D.
Reverend Veronice Miles, PhD is a preacher, teacher, scholar, mentor, and artist committed to a life of ministry in the church and in the academy. She serves as the Mary Elizabeth McGehee Joyce Professor of Preaching at Wesley Theological Seminary in Washington, DC. Grounded in womanist epistemology, her publication, Embodied Hope: A Homiletical Theology Reflection, invites us to reimagine the contextual and theological starting points for a Christian theology of hope. Dr. Miles is an ordained Baptist minister who has served the church and community ministry for more than 50 years.
Reverend Natosha Reid Rice
Reverend Natosha Reid Rice is a mother, wife, preacher, noted keynote speaker, equity and inclusion strategist, multi-sector theologian, and attorney. She currently serves as the VP of Global Housing Opportunities and Mission Engagement for Habitat for Humanity International. In addition to Habitat, she previously served as an Associate Pastor at the Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta for 11 years and is currently the Minister for Public Life at All Saints’ Episcopal Church. Natosha is married to Corey Rice and they are the proud parents of Kayla, Malachi and Caleb.
Reverend Dr. Gina M. Stewart
Reverend Dr. Gina M. Stewart has served as Senior Pastor of Christ Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee since 1995, becoming the first African American woman to lead an established African American Baptist congregation in Memphis and Shelby County. A respected pastor and visionary leader, she holds degrees from the University of Memphis, Trevecca Nazarene University, Memphis Theological Seminary, and the Interdenominational Theological Center, and is currently pursuing a PhD in African American Preaching and Sacred Rhetoric at Christian Theological Seminary. She is the immediate past President of the Lott Carey Foreign Missions Society where she expanded its global outreach. Dr. Stewart also serves as Chairwoman of the Religious Affairs Committee of the NAACP National Board and holds leadership roles with the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Conference and Women in Ministry initiatives. She is the founder of Greater Works, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to philanthropy and ministry development.
Sally Vonner
Sally Vonner is the first Black woman to serve as General Secretary and CEO of United Women in Faith, a 156-year-old, 300,000-member women’s organization of the United Methodist Church. She leads the organization’s vision, mission, and strategic plan to positively impact women, children, and youth globally. In 2022, she successfully led the organization through rebranding, and a name change as the Transformation Officer. Ms. Vonner holds an M.Div. and Women’s Studies Certification from SMU, Perkins School of Theology, and a B.S. in Biology from East Texas A&M. She is part of a women’s leadership cohort for CEOs with J.P. Morgan Chase, serves on the board of the Scarritt-Bennett Center, and is active in her local chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
DAUGHTERS of Thunder
Reverend Tiffany Brooks
Reverend Tiffany Brooks is an itinerant elder in the AME Church, born and raised in Queens, NY. She holds degrees from the University of Maryland, American University, and Wesley Theological Seminary and will begin doctoral studies at Morgan State University this fall. With over 10 years of experience in education, she has served as a teacher, consultant, curriculum developer, and program manager. She serves as Organizing Manager of Students and Youth at the Children’s Defense Fund and leads the college ministry at Kingdom Fellowship AMEC, embodying a womanist vision of public theology rooted in justice and liberation.
Minister Naomi Johnson
Minister Naomi Johnson is an Associate Minister, psalmist, wife, and mother of three. She brings 17 years of business leadership experience and serves as Assistant Director of Sunburst School of Music. She holds an MBA from Seton Hill University and a degree in Communications from Bennett College. She is completing a Master of Pastoral Studies at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary and will begin a Doctor of Ministry in Creative Writing and Public Theology. She co-hosts the Crossed Perspectives Podcast and is co-creator of The Vibe, a multigenerational worship experience blending contemporary Christian music with authentic encounters with God.
Reverend Tamara Ravelo
Reverend Tamara Ravelo is from the Ft. Yuma Quechan Indian Tribe (Kwuh-tsan). Her grandmother, Indigenous boarding school survivor Denise Dugan, introduced her to the medicine wheel, setting her on a spiritual path that influences her ministry of preaching, teaching, and Indigenous ceremonial healing. She holds an MBA, a Master of Divinity from Yale University, a diploma in congregational ministry from Andover-Newton Theological Seminary, and is pursuing a PhD at NAIITS an Indigenous Learning Community. Ordained in the Evangelical Covenant Church (ECC), she is the first Indigenous woman to be ordained in its 140-year history. An award-winning preacher, she serves as Senior Pastor of Orchard Covenant Church in Massachusetts, is President of the Indigenous Ministers Association in the ECC, and founder of Sanctuary For Her Soul.
ARTIST(S) in Residence
Ashley Broadwater
Psalmist Ashley Broadwater is an accomplished music educator, psalmist, and award winning background vocalist from Atlanta, GA. As the founder of Sonata Sessions, a private piano and voice studio that offers beginner and intermediate lessons, Ashley has built a brand for herself and clients. Her voice can be heard on the albums of some of gospel music’s top artists. Ashley currently serves on the staff at Elizabeth Baptist Church. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Spelman College and a Master of Arts in Church Music from Mercer University and is the proud wife of Torrence Broadwater.
Reverend Eyesha K. Marable
Reverend Eyesha K. Marable is an ordained itinerant elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church and Pastor of Mt. Zion AME Church in Millburn, New Jersey. Rev. Marable holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Spanish from New York University; a Master of Science in Nonprofit Management and a Master of Divinity from Drew Theological Seminary. She serves as Dance Coordinator for the First Episcopal District, supporting worship arts across 339 churches in seven states and Bermuda. Professionally, she is Assistant Vice President of Community Engagement at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), Founder of the National Liturgical Dance Network, she brings over four decades of leadership in worship arts, equipping churches globally to integrate dance, faith, and well-being.
Reverend Mia M. McClain
Reverend Mia M. McClain is a pastor, artist, and creative leader committed to integrating faith, storytelling, and justice in service of life and liberation. A licensed Baptist minister ordained in the United Church of Christ, she serves as Senior Pastor of Riverside Baptist Church in Washington, D.C., becoming the first African American and first woman to hold the role in the church’s history. She holds degrees from Union Theological Seminary, NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, and Syracuse University. Above all this, she is a daughter, aunt, sister, niece, friend, and proud dog mom to Harrison Claiborne McClain.
PLANNING TEAM
The planning team has prepared this conference with love in the details. For months, we gathered virtually, holding a shared commitment to creating a space that is sacred and worthy of the time and care women of color in ministry deserve. Our hope is that every woman who gathers here will feel inspired, supported, and empowered to step more fully into her calling. May this time together remind you of the strength of sisterhood and the power of our collective voices.
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Rhodes
Executive Director | Atlanta, Georgia
Reverend Dr. Lisa Rhodes, LCSW is a visionary leader, coach, mentor, pastoral theologian, and clinical social worker who has committed over 25 years curating spaces for young adults and women of color to amplify their voices and flourish in ministry. As Dean of the Chapel at Spelman College, she founded the WISDOM Center (Women in Spiritual Discernment of Ministry) and after 16 years, founded RISE Together Mentorship Network. Currently Reverend Rhodes serves as executive director of RISE. She received her MSW from the University of Baltimore, Master of Divinity from Emory’s Candler School of Theology, and Doctor of Ministry from Union Presbyterian Seminary.
Reverend Brittini L. Palmer
Conference Coordinator | Steelton, Pennsylvania
Rev. Brittini L. Palmer is a writer, preacher, and communications specialist. She began her career as a reporter for a Black-owned newspaper, uplifting stories often overlooked. Her work now supports nonprofits, churches, and organizations seeking to communicate with clarity and a commitment to justice. In 2021, she stepped fully into her calling and formally began the work of Black Women Write for Freedom, a storytelling collective rooted in faith, strategy, and truthtelling. Her forthcoming book, A Black Woman in Seminary, will be published by Orbis Books. Brittini holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications and Journalism from Virginia Union University and a Master of Divinity from McAfee School of Theology.
Preacher and Hospice Spiritual and Bereavement Counselor committed to proclaiming the gospel with integrity. She offers sacred presence to patients and families navigating end-of-life transitions with dignity and hope.
Ordained Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church, preacher, educator, and mentor with over 27 years of ministry experience. Associate Dean of Students at Iliff School of Theology.
Ordained elder, pastor, and founder of The Vizion Group, a strategic consulting firm advancing policy and economic development. PhD student in Public Theology and Community Engagement committed to justice-driven leadership.
Research and evaluation consultant with a passion to see underserved communities thrive. She brings over a decade of experience serving families, integrating research and faith to amplify the voices of women of color.
Womanist public theologian whose ministry bridges policy and food justice advocacy. Pastor, professor, and author of forthcoming book, Deep Calls to Deep: Historically Black Theological Institutions and How They Shaped the Black Christian Tradition (Broadleaf Books).
Visionary leader and former Senior Pastor of Faith Community Baptist Church in Richmond, Virginia, and Associate Professor of Theology at Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology, shaping future ministry leaders.
Reverend Gwen R. Aldridge Antioch, California
Reverend Rochelle Andrews College Park, Maryland
Reverend Dr. Yvette Blair-Lavallais Dallas, Texas
Reverend Dr. Diane Bogues Denver, Colorado
Minister Diana L. Cabezas, PhD New York
Reverend Dr. Patricia GouldChamps Richmond, Virginia
Reverend Dr. Wanda Paulk Holder Atlanta, GA
Associate Minister at First Baptist Church East Point with over 30 years of ministerial experience. Affectionately known as “Mama Wanda,” she serves as confidant, counselor, and mentor.
Elder Tonetta Collins, MSW Atlanta, Georgia
Executive Pastor at Bible Way Ministries International. A Spelman College graduate with advanced degrees in Social Work, Christian Psychological Studies, and Leadership and Change. She leads with pastoral depth and strategic clarity.
Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Robinson Charleston, South Carolina
Pastor, writer, scholar, and womanist voice committed to healing wounded hearts and confronting unjust systems. Author of Let Not Your Heart Be Troubled, she creates sacred spaces where women are seen and empowered.
Reverend Andrea Lewis, Ph.D. Atlanta, Georgia
Pastor of Holly Grove AME Church and Director of Student Success at Spelman College, bridging ministry and higher education while cultivating faith, leadership, and purpose among students, the church, and the broader community.
Reverend Tiffany Burch Atlanta, Georgia
Creative therapist, preacher, teacher, and founder of What Is Bible Study? cultivating community-centered spaces of healing, wisdom, and spiritual wholeness while pursuing a PhD in Counseling at Mercer University.
Executive Director of City Impact, a nonprofit transforming lives through holistic, Christ-centered programs. Author, and leadership coach with over 20 years of experience in higher education and community leadership.
Minister
Minister Christa Harper, Esquire
Englewood, New Jersey
A Harlem native and mother of four, she serves as an Associate Minister at Community Baptist Church of Englewood, a jurist in the New York Courts, and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Drew Theological School.
Elder Dr. Tiffany M. Stubbs Birmingham, Alabama
Pharmacist, chaplain, and writer, integrating clinical expertise and spiritual care while offering prophetic imagination, creative expression, and compassionate leadership in the communities she serves.
Reverend Dr. Jacqueline Lynch Elmont, New York
Pastor of Mt. Olive AME Church in Port Washington, NY, and Pediatric Chaplain at St. Mary’s Hospital for Children, holding degrees in Psychology, Divinity, Social Work, and a Doctor of Ministry.
Reverend Dr. Myrna Thurmond-Malone Atlanta, Georgia
Pastoral Counselor, Certified Clinical Trauma Practitioner, educator, author, and founder of The MHT Family Life Center, committed to helping women of color re-author their stories from trauma to triumph.
Dr. Nathalina Rogers-Tolbert Charleston, South Carolina
Associate Minister at Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, co-author of A Daily Transformation Through Seasons of Hope, and a dedicated educator pursuing a Master of Ministry and certification in Spiritual Direction.
GRADUATES
ATLANTA
Mentee Sojourners
Reneatta Austin
Erica Brown
Constance Folsom
Jennifer Harkness-Allen
Nicole Hawkins
DeMeeta Huletta
Karmen Latimore
Lana Lockhart
Marielle Thomas
Raegan Tuff
Reiko Ward
Theresa Waters-Dunston
Mentor Leadership Team
Toni Belin Ingram
Deloris Harris
Cassandra Henderson
Brittany Paschall
Wanda Paulk Holder
Kathryn Stanley
Myrna Thurmond-Malone
Lairalaine White
La Donna Williams
CHICAGO
Mentee Sojourners:
Kimberly Gaitor
Mishca Russell
Louise Taylor
Charmaine Webster
Mentor Leadership Team:
DeVona Alleyne
La Tonja Ellis
Denise Smith
NASHVILLE
Mentee Sojourners:
Jessica Campbell
Tammy Lewis Wilborn
Mentor Leadership Team:
Yvette Blair-Lavallais
LouEtta Burkins
Garlinda Burton
Angela Mennefield Cooley
NEW YORK
Mentee Sojourners:
Donna Beck
Shaniqua Callender
Andrea Davidson
Candance Greene
Christa Harper
Eshe Killian
Eyesha Marable
Florence Marshall
Korrin Mitchell
Kate Ofikuru
E. Denise Perry
Irene Prasannakumar
Tamara Ravelo
Azaria Ulmer
Shawanna Wannamaker
Mentor Leadership Team:
Audrey Atkinson
Gail Davis
Jackie Lynch
Brittini Palmer
Lisa Rhodes
Charlene Wingate
SOUTH CAROLINA
Mentee Sojourners:
Carmen Smalls Bowman
Pamela Gay
Karen Middleton
Carol Jackson-Powell
Valarie Pritchard
Mentor Leadership Team:
Gloria Lightfoot
Nathalina Tolbert
Lisa Robinson
VIRGINIA/NORTH CAROLINA
Mentee Sojourners:
Lakesha Bradshaw Easter
Nancy Brown
Ayesha Edwards
Daphne Hill
Makisha Jackson
Ebony Keys
Laticia Lee
Delois Prince
Racia Randolph
Samiah Walker
Jessica Washington
Lahoma Williams
Mentor Leadership Team:
Dwylene Butler
Littycia Clay-Crawley
Patricia Gould Champ
Cheryl Ivey Green
Melanie Jones Quarles
Carla Lightfoot
Lakisha Lockhart
Melody Pannell
Kim Ridley
LANCASTER/CALI
Mentee Sojourners:
Stephanie Anderson-Meynard
Kyla Johnson Brantley
Pamela Greer
Jo-Anne Renee Ludy
Queen Jonafa’ Tervalon
Vivian Utsey-Davis
Janell Nicole Wesley
Denise Young
Mentor Leadership Team:
Gwen Aldridge
Diane Bogues
Equilla Curry
Kimberley Johnson
PITTSBURGH
Mentee Sojourners:
Lakeisha Aquino
Keisha Becoate
Imani Jai Best-Savage
Destini Hodges
Naomi Johnson
Jennifer Saunders
Pamela Tarpley
Natoya Venetta ThomasSmith
Mentor Leadership Team:
Josie Hoover
Chenda Innis Lee
Ashley Johnson
Melody Pannell
Kim Ridley
WASHINGTON DC
Mentee Sojourners:
Akilah Atkinson
Yasika Bigham
Tiffany Brooks
Leah J. Burgess
Lisa Clark Harvin
Lisa Cobb
Tia Coulter
Stephanie Cunningham
Lauren Jackson
Erika Johnson
Chaunetta Jones
Megan Mason
Audrey McDowell
Katina Palmer
Natiya Pringle-Bennett
Kimberly Veney
Mentor Leadership Team:
Rochelle Andrews
Veronice Miles
Lorena Parrish
Perzavia Praylow
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The RISE Together Mentorship Network extends heartfelt gratitude to the following offices, institutions, and partners for helping make this Mentorship Leadership Development and Sisting Conference a success.
COHORTS AND PARTNER INSTITUTIONS
Candler School of Theology Atlanta, GA
McCormick Theological Seminary Chicago, IL
Vanderbilt Divinity School Nashville, TN
Union Theological Seminary New York, NY
Union Presbyterian Seminary Charlotte, NC
Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology Richmond, VA
Wesley Theological Seminary Washington, DC
Boston University School of Theology Boston, MA
Lancaster PA Cohort
Northern California Cohort
Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church South Carolina
SPONSOR & CONFERENCE PARTNERS
Baptist Women in Ministry
Black Women Write for Freedom
Columbia Theological Seminary
Union Theological Seminary
Communications Office & Office of Finance and Operations
Golden United Methodist Church
Jasmine Taylor, Graphic Designer
Intentional Growth Center
Iron Brand Marketing
McAfee School of Theology
McCormick Theological Seminary
Sallie C. Burns – Program Coordinator, Spelman College
Seasons of Graceful Living
Rev. Sharon E. Williams
Taste of Divine by Rev. Tiff
United Women in Faith
Candler School of Theology, Emory University
Cousinbabys by Linda Edwards
TK Consulting & Design
To all RISE Together host institutions, Wisdom Companions, mentors, mentee sojourners, conference presenters, moderators, preachers, facilitators, and program participants— thank you. Your presence and partnership make this sacred gathering possible.
