Our Board

PRESIDENT

Bryan has a diverse educational background spanning math, science, and legal studies, but his commitment to community is inspired by lived experience. Overcoming adversity has shaped his perspective, teaching hoim to build meaningful relationships, find purpose in his work, and challenge his own and others’ perceptions to better understand the world around him.

Over the years, Bryan has been involved in community-led groups and advocacy initiatives, helping facilitate peer support circles, organize leadership committees, and contribute to policy-development coalitions. In his personal life, he enjoys learning new languages, powerlifting, dancing, and writing music as a singer and pianist.

SECRETARY

Neo Ehlen is current undergraduate student at the University of Washington. She plans to graduate in 2027 with a Bachelor of Arts in Law, Societies, and Justice and a minor in Philosophy.

Throughout her life as a daughter, sister, friend and student, she has seen and felt the power of strong relationships, self-confidence, and speaking up for what matters to you. She wants to equip her peers with this same power and continue to develop her own skills in the process.

Outside of work, Neo loves reading, weight-lifting, and spending time with her friends and family.

TREASURER

Heidi Holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in Global Business and International Finance from Arizona State University and has built a career in financial an d operational leadership. Her background supports responsible stewardship, fiscal oversight, and long-term sustainability in her role as Treasurer.

In her service on the project RISE board, Heidi brings financial expertise and a strong commitment to community impact. She is guided by the belief that meaningful service involves providing people with the support and opportunity they need to move forward, particularly during pivotal and challenging life transitions. As the mother of two sons who play competitive basketball, Heidi has developed a deep appreciation for mentorship, structure, and community in the development of young people. In her personal time, she enjoys hot yoga, hiking, and skiing.

BOARD MEMBER

Zak holds a Bachelor of Arts in Urban Studies and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Puget Sound School of Law (now Seattle University School of Law). He has experience practicing law and serving as counsel in corporate, construction, and real estate matters.

Zak’s lived experience has given him a deep understanding of what it takes to support individuals through pivotal life changes. In 2005, he experienced incarceration, a turning point that reshaped his perspective and strengthened his commitment to justice, rehabilitation, and community support. During this time, he assisted with GED preparation and program operations that supported education and workforce pathways.

Following his release, Zak helped create Washington state’s Office of the Corrections Ombudsman and currently serves as a Community Relations Specialist, conducting monitoring visits across Department of Corrections facilities statewide. He also serves on the boards of What’s Next Washington, Next Chapter (Tacoma), and the Dry Stone Conservancy in Lexington, Kentucky.