RISE 2026 Conference Program

RENEW | INSPIRE | SUPPORT | EMPOWER

The Power of Our Voices & the Telling of Our Stories with

PROPHETIC Whispers NATIONAL CONFERENCE March 11 - 14, 2026 | Atlanta, GA HILTON ATLANTA

THE HISTORIC EBENEZER BAPTIST CHURCH

255 COURTLAND AVE, NE ATLANTA, GA 30303

101 JACKSON STREET NE, ATLANTA, GA 30312

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

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D

Welcome ear 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, RISE Together Mentorship Network

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The Power of Our Voices & the Telling of Our Stories with

PROPHETIC Whispers NATIONAL CONFERENCE

March 11 - 14, 2026 | Atlanta, GA

CONFERENCE AGENDA DAY 1

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2026 Pre-Conference Empowerment Sessions

LOCATION

11:00AM - 1:00PM

Early On-Site Registration

Hilton Atlanta Lobby Area

1:00PM – 6:00PM

Trauma Healing Institute

Hilton Atlanta Room 401

Leading in the Public Square

Ebenezer Baptist Church Cyber Cafe

Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones Founder | Faith on the Journey

1:00PM – 5:30 PM

Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Smallwood Dean and Vice-President of Academic Affairs | United Lutheran Seminary

DAY 2 9:00AM – 1:00PM

THURSDAY, MARCH 12, 2026 Pre-Conference Empowerment Sessions

LOCATION

Trauma Healing Institute

Hilton Atlanta Room 401

Leading in the Public Square

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

Crystal Ballroom

Reverend Jocelyn J. Jones Founder | Faith on the Journey

9:30AM – 1:30PM

Reverend Dr. Teresa L. Smallwood Dean and Vice-President of Academic Affairs | United Lutheran Seminary

A Womanist Call to Gather Reverend Mia M. McClain 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

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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 8:30PM – 9:30PM

Reception

Crystal Ballroom Foyer

Womanist Whispers After Dark

Crystal Ballroom

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

DAY 3

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026

7:00AM – 8:15AM 8:30AM – 10:00AM

LOCATION

Registration | Breakfast (On Your Own)

Crystal Ball Room Atlanta Hilton

Daughters of Thunder: The Power of Our Voices Worship Experience

Crystal Ball Room Atlanta Hilton

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

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DAY 3

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 (CONT.)

LOCATION

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

10:15AM – 11:30AM

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

11:30AM – 2:00PM

Lunch on Your Own

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Ebenezer Baptist Church (Doors Open at 1:00PM)

DAY 3

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 (CONT.)

2:15PM – 9:00PM

LOCATION

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

Ebenezer Church Fellowship Hall

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

Ebenezer Church Sanctuary

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

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DAY 3

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2026 (CONT.) 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

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LOCATION

DAY 4

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2026

7:00AM – 8:00AM

Breakfast

8:15AM – 10:15AM

Morning Glory Worship Service

LOCATION Crystal Ball Room Atlanta Hilton

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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EXECUTIVE & 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.

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Reverend Rochelle Andrews

Reverend Dr. Yvette Blair-Lavallais

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.

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).

Reverend Dr. Diane Bogues

Minister Diana L. Cabezas, PhD

Reverend Dr. Patricia GouldChamps

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.

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.

Reverend Gwen R. Aldridge Antioch, California

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.

Denver, Colorado

College Park, Maryland

New York

Dallas, Texas

Richmond, Virginia

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.

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Reverend Dr. Wanda Paulk Holder

Reverend Dr. Lisa D. Robinson

Reverend Tiffany Burch

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.

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.

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.

Elder Tonetta Collins, MSW

Reverend Andrea Lewis, Ph.D.

Minister Kristy Goodwin, M.Ed., M.M., M.T.S.

Atlanta, GA

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.

Charleston, South Carolina

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.

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Atlanta, Georgia

Lincoln, Nebraska

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 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.

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.

Elder Dr. Tiffany M. Stubbs

Reverend Dr. Myrna Thurmond‑Malone

Pharmacist, chaplain, and writer, integrating clinical expertise and spiritual care while offering prophetic imagination, creative expression, and compassionate leadership in the communities she serves.

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.

Birmingham, Alabama

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.

Atlanta, Georgia

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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

2026RISE GRADUATES

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

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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

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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

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SPONSOR & CONFERENCE PARTNERS

Baptist Women in Ministry

Intentional Growth Center

Columbia Theological Seminary

McAfee School of Theology

Black Women Write for Freedom Union Theological Seminary Communications Office & Office of Finance and Operations

Golden United Methodist Church

Jasmine Taylor, Graphic Designer

Rev. Sharon E. Williams

Iron Brand Marketing

Taste of Divine by Rev. Tiff

McCormick Theological Seminary

Candler School of Theology, Emory University

Sallie C. Burns – Program Coordinator, Spelman College Seasons of Graceful Living

United Women in Faith

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.

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RISE TOGETHER MENTORSHIP NETWORK

STAY CONNECTED May the prophetic whispers continue to guide your voice, your ministry, and your story. @risetogetherwoc @rise4woc RISE Together Mentorship Network

RENEW | INSPIRE | SUPPORT | EMPOWER