Meet the RISE! Committee Members
Cheryl Montgomery
Founder of RISE!
My "why" is truly heartfelt—I'm deeply committed to helping women recognize their worth, RISE! to their full potential, and realize that their past does not determine their future. My passion for empowering others comes from my own experiences of overcoming hardship.
I'm dedicated both personally and professionally, to helping others succeed, whether it's empowering women or supporting businesses. My being a "good helper" speaks to my genuine care for others with the hopes of making a difference in their lives.
My pride and joy are my family. The love of my life since 1983, two adult sons, one beautiful daughter-in-love and three granddaughters aka my heartbeats.
Antoinette Griffin
Lead RISE! member
Women are truly inspiring and motivating. RISE! embraces women in a space that is safe, encouraging, and supportive—where each voice is valued. I deeply believe in the power of shared experiences and the importance of building a strong community of women who genuinely support and uplift one another. By coming together, we have the opportunity to inspire each other, share our unique perspectives, and collaborate to create meaningful and positive change in our lives and communities. I believe that with faith and purpose, coupled with learning from diverse voices, we can contribute to the collective empowerment of women in all walks of life.
Debbie Griffin
Master of RISE!ing
I have been on the RISE team since its inception. I’m passionate about our mission to support & lift up women who have endured life-changing challenges. My passion to be involved comes from my own life experiences, believing that every pothole in life can propel you into something greater. I am retired with over 20 years as an administrative professional in the financial investment industry.
Sharon Parchia
Influencial RISE! member & Treasurer
Sharon Parchia has been a board member and the Treasurer of the RISE! Women’s Conference since its founding in 2016.
After retiring from a 34-year career in sales and marketing, she now volunteers at her church and enjoys traveling.
Sharon loves spending quality time with her two daughters, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.
Keniatra Montgomery
RISE! Committee Member AKA: Daughter in Love of Cheryl Montgomery
My name is Keniatra Montgomery. My role on the Rise committee is praise and worship. I love to worship, so having the responsibility of making sure we enter into His presence is not taken lightly. May God’s peace be with you.
Crystal Billings
RISE! Member
I have attended RISE! since the day Cheryl started it. I was so honored to be asked to be a part of the commitee because I truly love GOD, Women, and encouraging others to overcome their challenges. The ladies on the RISE! team are the sisters I never knew I needed. They are supportive, loving, caring, and kind. What RISE! means to me is that we can inspire others to climb mountains they never knew they had the strength to overcome.
Melissa Schab
RISE! Committee Member
Hi, I’m Melissa Schab. Family is a big part of my life, and I enjoy spending time with my husband and our four kids. I love being at the beach, listening to the waves and taking in the calm. Planning and organizing come naturally to me, whether it’s putting together family activities or creating systems that make life easier. That same passion carries into my work as a Cost Accounting Professional, where I focus on bringing clarity and structure to what I do.
The RISE conference means so much to me because it represents freedom, inspiration, hope and gratitude. I’ve attended most of the RISE conferences, and each one has filled my heart and reminded me how powerful connection and encouragement can be. For me, RISE isn’t just a conference, it’s a space that renews my spirit and reminds me that when we rise together, anything is possible.
Evelyn Dixon
RISE! Committee member
My role as a RISE member was definitely divined. I gave God my YES to the invitation and joined “RISE” first ministry in 2017.I’m a widow, mother of four, currently working in higher education. I am a testimony of resilience, restoration of healing and surrendering my scars.RISE! un silenced my vulnerability, reminding me through real life stories, testimonies, truths and sisterhood that I could still RISE. I now embrace sharing my humility to other women with out shame.
Marie Payne
I love GOD with all my heart & soul. Being a part of RISE! allows me to share his love the way he loves me. In the Name of Jesus Christ my everything.
Airiana Tindall
RISE! Committee's youngest member.
Airiana Tindall became part of the RISE! Women’s Conference planning team while still in high school, after attending several annual conferences and capturing photos for our archives.
She is now studying engineering at the University of Washington and serves as the voice representing the perspectives of our youth.
In her free time, Airiana enjoys photography, traveling, and spending time outdoors, no matter the scenery or weather. She also loves creating lasting memories with her friends, family, and dog.