Meet the Founder

Driven by Purpose, Rooted in Community

Cadets Rising was built on a simple belief: every child deserves a champion. Meet the people who make that belief a reality every day.

Cadets Rising founder

Founder & Executive Director

Cadets Rising

The founder of Cadets Rising brings years of experience in education, youth development, and community organizing. Having witnessed firsthand the gaps in after-school programming for underserved students, they set out to create something different — a program that treats every child as a whole person, not just a student.

With a background spanning classroom instruction, athletic coaching, and nonprofit leadership, the Cadets Rising model reflects a deep understanding of what young people need to thrive: structure, safety, mentorship, and joy.

The SCRR framework — Self, Collective, Root, Responsibility — was developed from years of working directly with youth and families, and continues to guide every program, workshop, and interaction within the organization.

Background & Expertise

  • Years of experience in K-12 education and youth development
  • Expertise in 21st Century Community Learning Center grant compliance
  • Trained facilitator in social-emotional learning and violence prevention
  • Coach, mentor, and advocate for underserved youth communities

"We don't just coach sports or teach subjects. We develop people."

A Philosophy of the Whole Child

Every program at Cadets Rising is designed with the whole child in mind. Academic enrichment, physical activity, creative expression, and social-emotional learning aren't separate tracks — they're woven together intentionally, because that's how real growth happens.

Want to Connect?

Whether you're interested in bringing Cadets Rising to your school, partnering with us, or simply learning more — we'd love to hear from you.