Rooted to Rise was founded on the belief that when an individual aligns with their purpose, they naturally ignite a cycle of growth that lifts entire communities.
THE HEARTS BEHIND THE MISSION
Dr. Tekora Scruggs
FOUNDER/DIRECTOR
Leveraging 20+ years in higher education, non-profit leadership, and student success to build equitable access, center lived experiences, and cultivate intergenerational connections.
Shannon Trapp
Board Member | Executive Governance & Strategic Operations Specialist
Bridging executive governance with high impact practices and community impact to ensure organizational excellence and sustainability.
Aleeta Gardner
Board Member | Enterprise Strategy & Operational Transformation Specialist
Applying two decades of tech and enterprise leadership to build scalable systems, drive organizational growth, and align strategy with lasting impact.
Byra Cole
Board Member | College Access, Educational Policy & Data Strategy Specialist
Combining 25+ years in college access with executive level expertise in data strategy and educational policy to build effective, community centered programs
Karimah Crosson
Board Member | Institutional Strategy, Grant Acquisition & Program Development Specialist
Merging 15+ years in post-secondary access with extensive expertise in program development and strategic grant procurement to build sustainable, asset based educational systems.
