Chanda Womack, Ed.D

Executive Director | she/her/hers | chanda@ariseducation.org

Dr. Chanda Womack is the Founding Executive Director of the Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians for Education (ARISE.) The intersection of her identity and experience as a Cambodian Refugee woman, product of the K-12 public education system, and mom of two bi-racial (Black and Cambodian) children have shaped her ideologies, advocacy and organizing. These identity markers fuel how she shows up, occupies and shares space. As a member of a historically invisibilized community, Dr. Womack values and sees vital the ways in which oppressed communities fight for our collective humanity. She is unapologetic for what she stands for and how she stewards this labor of love. Her leadership and movement building has garnered local and national recognition for ARISE and Rhode Island. In 2023, she was recognized with the NASS Medallion Award presented by the Secretary of State to individuals prioritizing civic education as well as the MUSE Foundation's "Disruptor through Advocacy Award." ARISE & her leadership was named in Providence Monthly’s “Who to Watch in 2020.” In 2019, ARISE was recognized with the "Next Generation Movement Award" by DARE. In 2017, Chanda was the recipient of NAACP Thurgood Marshall, the YWCA's Women in Achievement Award and the Providence Youth Student Movement POWER Award.

Chanda was conceived and born in a refugee camp in Thailand, immigrating to the United States in January of 1981 with her family. Chanda is married to Tiger Womack, her husband of over 17 years and has a daughter Amaya and son named Justice. She is a product of the Providence Public Schools and earned a B.A. degree from the University of Rhode Island in 2004. She has a Masters of Public Administration also from the University of Rhode Island as well as a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Leadership from Rhode Island College. In May of 2024, she received her Doctorate in Leadership in Schooling from UMASS, Lowell. Using the Collaborative Community-Engaged Scholarship (CCES) framework, her research was rooted in exploring identity-development and exploration as a liberatory tool.

NGAN NGUYEN, Mat

Deputy Director of Antiracist Programming & Curriculum | she/her/hers | ngan@ariseducation.org

Ngan was born in Vietnam and immigrated to Minnesota when she was eight years old. She graduated from Macalester College with a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies and Educational Studies. She went on to receive a Masters of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in History/Social Studies at Brown University. She served as the Program Director the Alliance of Rhode Island Southeast Asians for Education (ARISE). At ARISE, she led the Youth Leaders program, developed a Southeast Asian American history curriculum and taught in partnership with the Providence Public Schools District. She is currently a 6th grade social studies teacher at Brooklyn Center Community Schools in Minnesota and a consultant for ARISE. Her curriculum is community-based and healing centered, and her practice is informed by culturally responsive and culturally relevant pedagogy.

Nancy Xiong

Program Manager | she/her/hers | nancy@ariseducation.org

Nancy Xiong is a child of Hmong genocide survivors and was born in Providence, Rhode Island. During the Secret War in Laos and the Vietnam War, Nancy's parents, grandparents, and relatives fought against the Communist Party in Laos. Nancy’s parents arrived in the United States with hopes of freedom and opportunities. Yet those opportunities were nonexistent when they knew no one, struggled with the language barrier, and experienced difficulty adapting to this new land called home. They were not furnished with the necessary tools for survival. As a multilingual learner, Nancy navigated the education system mostly alone. These life-changing experiences instilled trauma in her life and enabled her to develop resiliency as a first-generation college student. Nancy is empowered to create pathways for her and her community to break the cycle of poverty and intergenerational trauma and formulate opportunities for the next generations to thrive, not just survive by cultivating a space for us to heal.

Niamiah Jefferson 

Lead Organizer | she/her/hers | niamiah@ariseducation.org

Niamiah Jefferson is a resilient Black Woman from Cranston Rhode Island that is a recent graduate from Ponaganset High School. Currently, she is a freshman at Wheaton College. Niamiah is majoring in sociology and business with a concentration in diversity and inclusion and is on track to be a Taylor and Lane social justice scholar. One quote Niamiah embodies is “Gaining knowledge is the first step to wisdom, and sharing it is the first step to humanity.” As an ever evolving individual, Niamiah has a deep desire to learn and constantly work to further educate herself. Since she is a strong believer in liberation through education, she uses what she learns to spread her knowledge to others. In being a part of ARISE for over 3 years, not only has Niamiah been given space to use and amplify her voice but she pays it forward by holding space for other youth to be unapologetically them.

zoe fuad

Communications Organizer | she/her/hers | zoe@ariseducation.org

Like many, Zoe carries within her a knotted tangle of immigration stories and diasporas; equal halves Chinese-Indonesian and Taiwanese-Texan, her own heritage and history remains a hazy mystery to herself. She was first drawn to ARISE for its community, whose warmth and mutual care was so unusual, and for its full embrace of minoritized people’s histories, experiences, and truths. She’s always been drawn to the sort of advocacy that involves the community in both structural analysis and structural change, for it allows us to evade the individualistic mindset that lays the blame of marginalization on the marginalized. Having grown up disabled for the better part of her life, Zoe knows what it is to feel burdensome on others, and is so grateful for ARISE’s constant intentionality in fostering self-love – a self-love that’s allowed her to redirect her energy to changing the systems that made such love hard in the first place.

Prior to coming to ARISE, Zoe worked as Community Engagement specialist at the Future Leaders Incubator. She also organizes on-campus (which begun with campaigning to end required standardized test scores), and believes firmly in the necessity of deinstitutionalizing knowledge. Believing that new media is one effective route of making knowledge accessible, she’s currently studying digital communities at Brown, and is due to graduate in December 2023.

O'Sha L. Williams

Anti-Racist Educator | she/her/hers | osha@ariseducation.org

O’Sha is a rising adult welcomed into youth-led spaces to listen, learn and labor towards the world that youth envision. Centering education as her field of greatest passion, O’Sha works with youth in community organizations and the classroom. Together, they work to achieve equitable experiences for each and every learner through analysis, advocacy and activism. O’Sha began teaching English as a New Language (ENL) to high school multilingual learners in Rhode Island’s Providence Public School District. Since the onset of the pandemic, O’Sha relocated to her home city of New York and now teaches English to middle schoolers in Canarsie, Brooklyn. With nearly a decade of Rhode Island residency, O’Sha remains deeply invested in her RI community and supports virtually and in-person as much as is safe and possible. Through remote and in-person instruction and education policy advocacy, O’Sha promotes thoughtful and intentional educational experiences for all students, especially students experiencing linguistic challenges to learning in an English-dominant academic system. O’Sha collaborates in pursuit of lasting and transformational policy change in education. She earned her Bachelor's degree and a Master’s degree in Urban Education Policy from Brown University as well as a Masters in Education from Rhode Island College.

Danielle Maddox

Office Manager | she/her/hers | danielle@ariseducation.org

Danielle was born and raised in South Providence, RI.  It was her experiences growing up as a young, Black woman in South Providence that fostered her drive to support organizations whose focus is in education and social justice. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her two daughters, family and friends, relaxing by the beach, baking, decorating, reading and being a “plarent (plant parent)” to more than 25 plant babies.

Danielle Maddox joined the ARISE team in January 2021. She brings over 15 years of administrative experience in office management, human resources, payroll and accounting in an education/non-profit setting. She assists in the development and implementation of the organization’s policies and procedures; manages and oversees the administration of HR policies, programs and practices within ARISE; she maintains accounts payable, receivables and monthly billing.

Mealaktey Sok

Artistic Organizer | she/her/hers

Mealaktey Sok is a Cambodian American from Providence, Rhode Island. She is currently in her first year at Smith College. As the daughter of two Cambodian refugees, she hopes to empower Khmer people and tell their history and spread their culture. Mealaktey works as a graphic designer at ARISE after being a part of the first cohort of the Youth Leader program since 2017. She loves art and hopes that, through her work, she can both use it as an organizing tool as well as express her ideas in different creative mediums. She also loves music, and can vibe to anything from Jessie Reyez to Red Velvet to Childish Gambino and back! 

Ger Lee

Lead Organizer | he/him/his | ger@ariseducation.org

Ger Lee, a young leader who strives for greatness even in the face of adversity. Raised in a hmong household, he was faced with many challenges that allowed him to build character. He attended a private middle school when he was younger and recently graduated from Classical High school in 2021. During his highschool years, Ger learned to develop many leadership and networking skills allowing him to grow more as an individual. He is now studying at the University of Rhode Island, majoring in Finance and minoring in Entrepreneurship. Wanting to better his future he plans to create generational wealth, and a world full of leaders. Investing most of his time into his passion for the business world, and guiding youth towards a better leadership foundation. Through his trauma, he has learned many lessons believing that life is a never ending journey of learning. We are an ever evolving society, always striving to be better. The tomorrow we dream of, depends on the changes we make today.

KARRIANA PHOEUN

Youth Organizer | she/her/hers | karriana@ariseducation.org

Hello! My name is Karriana Phoeun, my pronouns are she/her, I go to PCTA for cosmetology and I am a youth leader in ARISE. I joined ARISE because I hope to advocate for change, to work towards that, and to learn about different current issues/events and what we can do for them. I believe that speaking out on what you truly think or feel could change and have a positive impact so I want to have a hand in that. I love trying new things, getting to know people, learning new things, and spending time with family and friends. I enjoy playing video games and anything horror related.

MALACHI WILLIAMS

Youth Organizer | he/him/his | malachi@ariseducation.org

Hello, my name is Malachi Williams, and I go to Classical Highschool. I am a youth leader in ARISE.” I joined ARISE because it seemed like an excellent opportunity to get experience and add to my resume. I hope to gather lots of information about different subjects and matters to come. In my free time, I like to draw, play games, watch/read anime/manga and listen to music. A quote I enjoy is, "People often claim to hunger for truth, but seldom like the taste when it's served up." (George Martin)

NAOMI FELIX

Youth Organizer | she/her/hers | naomi@ariseducation.org

Hello, my name is Naomi Felix and I am a youth leader at ARISE. I'm 16 years old and I attend Providence Career and Technical Academy (PCTA.) I'm a very curious, creative, and diverse person. One of the reasons I joined ARISE is to become more aware of what was happening in the world and learn how I can contribute to my community. I want to create change for the injustices in the school system and also educate others because I didn't know many of the things going on in my community until I joined ARISE. I am sure many of my peers probably don't know either. I think awareness is very important and crucial to create change. One of my core beliefs is that you can do anything only if you truly believe you can and that it's possible if you set your mind to it. My Personal hobbies and interests include playing instruments such as piano and guitar and a love for science and engineering.

Sarath Suong

Co-Chair | he/him/his | sarath@prysm.us

Sarath Suong is a co-founder and Executive Director of Providence Youth Student Movement (PrYSM), a community based organization whose mission is to mobilize queer Southeast Asian (SEA) youth, families, and allies to build grassroots power and organize collectively for social justice. Born in the Thai Refugee camp Khao I Dang, his family  fled Cambodia during the civil war and eventually immigrated to his hometown of Revere, Massachusetts. To cope with the violence, pain, and injustices facing Southeast Asians, he became a community organizer, centered around  the unique intersections of race, class, gender, and sexuality. Sarath moved to Providence, Rhode Island in 1998 to attend Brown University. He majored in Ethnic Studies with a specific focus on Southeast Asian immigration, resettlement, and resistance. Sarath loves his family, friends, young people, and is the biggest X-Men fanatic you’d ever meet.

Annie Ratanasim, MPA

Co-Chair | she/her/hers

Annie is a Laotian-American born in California and has resided in Rhode Island since 1998. She is a first generation college graduate and U.S citizen while her parents were refugees that escaped to the U.S from the war in Laos. Annie is passionate about the environment, humanitarian and social justice efforts. She received her Bachelor degree in Communication Studies with a minor in Business Administration. In 2016 she received her Master in Public Administration with a concentration on Environmental Sustainability degree. Annie currently serves as a Program Manager of the Renewable Energy Fund under the Rhode Island Commerce Corporation where she could use her energy and efforts into aiding in progressing the environmental initiatives within the state. Part of her goals in life is to have a helping hand in making a positive difference in education, the youth, society and the environment. She believes any effort big or small counts. Annie is a foodie at heart, enjoys spending time with family and friends, and traveling the world as much as her vacation time allows!

Todd Flaherty, Ed.D

Officer | he/him/his

Todd D. Flaherty  is a career educator spanning 45 years as he has served as a teacher, coach, principal, district administrator and state education leader as Deputy Commissioner of Education for twelve years. He also served as President and CEO of The College Crusade of Rhode Island, RI's largest and most comprehensive college readiness and success program from 2009-2016.He has a long history of being a passionate advocate of public education, equal access and equity for ALL KIDS. As a believer in team work and the strength of collective action, Todd and his organizations have received numerous recognition and awards. He also has served as President of the Rhode Island Superintendent's  Association, Senior Policy Advisor to the national College and Career Readiness and Success Center and Deputy in Residence to the Council of Chief State School Officers in Washington D.C.  He holds a B.A from Syracuse University, an M.S. from Alfred University, and an Ed.D. from Boston University in Policy, Planning and Administration. In 2012 Dr. Flaherty was recognized by the Syracuse University Varsity Club, as a Letter Winner of Distinction for his public and community service.

Robert Lee, PhD

Officer | he/him/his

Robert Lee teaches Asian American Studies in the American Studies Department at Brown University.  Born in Oakland California, Bob grew up in Washington D.C. and Taipei, Taiwan before returning to California for college.  He has taught at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, and at the Chinese University of Hong Kong.

Before joining the American Studies faculty full time in 1989, he was director of Brown’s Third World Center (now called the Brown Center for Students of Color) and instrumental in establishing the Center for the Study of Race and Ethnicity in America.  Bob has been a member and chair of the RI Advisory Committee to the US. Commission of Civil Rights and served as board member of the Providence Student Youth Movement between 2007 and 2017.  

Joanne Debrah, M.eD

Board Member | she/her/hers

Joanne Debrah is a creative, resourceful and innovative team player.  She is also a mother and an educator who demonstrates through her choices the importance of being a lifelong learner. Shaped by the love of the South Side of Providence, Joanne is committed to honoring the mentors that poured into her life by doing the same for the youth she has been blessed to meet throughout her journey. From her work at Youth Build Providence to her current role at Del Sesto Middle School, Joanne is committed to breaking the cycle of poverty. With a strong reverence for the assets that exist within her community, Joanne wants youth to know their power and how this can be leveraged as they continue to cultivate their skills/gifts. Joanne completed her undergraduate studies in youth development & leadership at Springfield College. She then went onto Providence College where she earned a masters of education in counseling. It has been said that “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today.” Whether this happens in a classroom or beyond the walls of an institution of learning, Joanne wants youth to know we have a responsibility to arm ourselves with new knowledge each day.

Brandon Phivilay

Board Member | he/him/his

I am a Queer Laotian American born into a family of refugees and raised in Providence Rhode Island. I am currently enrolled in Rhode Island College pursuing my bachelor’s degree in nursing and intend to go to graduate school. I have been in programs such as Breakthrough Providence, Down-city Design, The Hidden Lotus Program, and was a youth leader for ARISE.

Amanda Basse 

Board Member | she/her/hers

Amanda is a first generation Dominican American, born and raised in South Providence. She attended URI and graduated with a BS in Marketing and International Business. 

After graduating from URI, she left RI to travel. After spending some time in Guam and across the US, she decided to move her family back to RI to raise her children close to family. 

She currently works as a marketing consultant, helping brands scale their businesses with paid traffic acquisition. She trains brands in-house marketing teams with strategies and tactics to consistently scale without the need for high priced agencies. She also provides training and small business counseling through the RI Small Business Development Center. 

Amanda has a passion for equitable access to high quality education.  She currently serves on the Barrington DEI subcommittee and the Special Education Advisory Committee.  

Robert W. Britto-Oliveira

Board Member | he/him/his

Bobby is Cape Verdean-American, born, raised, and resides in the Fox Point section of Providence. He is an educator who has a deep commitment to family, community, and good work that enhances racial justice and access to education through leadership. In 2006 he graduated from the University of Rhode Island (URI) with a B.A in History, a B.S in Secondary Education and with minors in Africana Studies and Psychology by way of the Talent Development Program (TD). He later returned to URI and in 2011 he completed his M.S in Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in College Student Personnel.

Some of his professional experience includes serving as a High School Advisor for the College Crusade of Rhode Island, where he is also an alumnus; the Coordinator of Student Diversity Initiatives for URI’s College of Environment and Life Sciences; and an Academic Advisor for the TD Program. He also serves as co-chair for URI’s Alumni of Color Network (ACN), as well as the advisor for/alumnus of Brothers On a New Direction (BOND).

Through his current role within the Multicultural Student Services Center where he serves as the assistant director, Bobby recognizes that he stands on the shoulders of the students from the various movements that took place before him, ultimately paving the way for his personal and professional development. It is his goal to bring those transferable skills to his tenure at ARISE.

John M. Murphy, Sr.

Emeritus | he/him/his

John M. Murphy, Sr. is the Founder, President and Chief Executive Officer of Beara Capital, LLC, a specialty finance company and non-bank lender that focuses on specialized lending products offered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the Small Business Administration (SBA) and also engages in a variety of other complex commercial real estate lending transactions.

Always connected to public life, Mr. Murphy served on the Providence City Council from 1967-1975, and was an active member of the Democratic State Committee for many years.  Mr. Murphy has served on numerous corporate boards, business councils and charitable organizations, including the following: Chairman of the Major Gifts Committee of the surgical unit at Fatima Hospital; Board Member and Charter Member of RISE (Rhode Islanders Sponsoring Education), an organization that provides educational advocacy and private-school financial support for children from lower-socioeconomic, high-risk families; and Board Member and Board Chairman of the Reverend E. Naomi Craig Scholarship Fund for low-income Providence youth. Mr. Murphy is a former member of the President’s Council at Providence College. Mr. Murphy is also a former member of the advisory board for St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital in Memphis, TN. In 2003, Mr. Murphy supported an effort in Ireland to create a telecommunications network to grant rural hospitals access to St. Jude's research libraries and databases in order to properly diagnose patients.  This “telemedicine” initiative brought together politicians from the divided Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland for this noble cause.