Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is made up of compassionate, trauma-informed survivors, pioneers in the field, and knowledgeable allies and community members. While our mission is personal, our services are universal. Contact us at hello@survivors-rise.com for more information as we continue to grow.
Kate Chisholm, DrPH
About Kate
Heidi Koffman
About Heidi
Rebecca O'Malley
About Rebecca
Dr. Kate Chisholm is the founder of Survivors RISE. Her vision for this nonprofit stemmed from her extensive work as a doctoral student at the University of Arizona where her dissertation examined survivors' experiences with the legal system, survivors' perceptions of restorative justice, and her personal favorite, innovative and alternative healing mechanisms for survivors. As a burgeoning leader in this field, she has presented and hosted workshops on her groundbreaking work at the National Sexual Assault Conference and American Public Health Association National Conference. Her work is published in The International Journal of Restorative Justice, Violence Against Women, and has been republished by NIH. Having worked as a victim advocate and sexual assault coordinator in both the legal system and nonprofit sector, Kate has a keen eye for gaps in services and thoroughly enjoys finding creative ways to fill them. As a survivor (and survivor of institutional betrayal), Kate is committed to this work and respects and values the many differing pathways survivors take forward. In her free time, you'll likely find her marathon training, hiking, traveling abroad, dancing bachata, or volunteering for RAINN's online hotline.
Heidi Koffman is a board member of Survivors Rise. As a survivor of sexual violence, she is passionate about supporting other survivors and their loved ones. With a background in criminal justice and an MBA with a marketing emphasis, she brings both professional expertise and personal dedication to advocacy work. She has experience as a business owner and a deep commitment to raising awareness and providing resources for survivors. As a dedicated advocate, she believes in the power of community and holistic healing, aligning closely with Survivors RISE’s mission.
Rebecca O'Malley is a Certified Public Accountant with over 19 years of accounting and tax experience, specializing in not-for-profits. She brings a strong commitment to financial integrity, helping ensure Survivors RISE maintains its tax-exempt status and operates in full compliance with regulatory standards. As a mother of five, Rebecca is driven by a deep desire to help create a safer world for both the current and future generations. Her passion for advocacy, especially for victims of sexual abuse, is rooted in a belief that every person deserves to live in a community that prioritizes safety, healing, and support.
About Athena
As an early literacy specialist, Athena brings a unique perspective to the board. Her work with students facing academic challenges has fostered deep empathy for those facing various hardships. Athena is deeply aware of the need for safe community spaces for survivors of sexual assault. Community connections play a vital role in healing by providing support, validation, and a sense of belonging, helping individuals feel less isolated and more empowered on their journey to recovery. She supports the mission of Survivors RISE, advocating for individualized healing programs and a community where survivors feel safe, supported, and empowered.
About Jennifer
Jennifer Racer is a passionate small business owner and artist dedicated to fostering creativity and innovation in her community. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Printmaking from Arizona State University and a Master of Arts in Organizational Management from the University of Phoenix, showcasing her commitment to both the arts and effective leadership. With expertise in compliance and governance, she is also a certified CIPP-US and GRCP professional, ensuring that organizations operate within legal frameworks while promoting ethical practices. As a board member for Survivors RISE and the Madison Education Foundation, as well as a member of the Sheaborhood Business Alliance, she actively contributes to initiatives that drive social change and support local causes.