RISE’s board helps determine organizational priorities, ensure RISE is led by its vision, mission, and values, and holds fiduciary responsibility. The board also works with staff to problem solve and dream up new ideas.
If you are interested in participating with RISE as a volunteer or board member, please contact us.
Becca Pearson (she/they)
Since 2024 Rebecca Pearson has served on RISE’s board, and she assumed the presidency in December 2025.
Rebecca holds a BS in Nursing from ETSU (Dec ‘25). She is an ER nurse at a Level I Trauma Center, a sexuality educator, and a lifelong rural Appalachian resident committed to making sexual health education more accessible, inclusive, and effective.
As an undergraduate, Rebecca co-led the PEER-iod team, which won an ETSU Elevates grant to partner with RISE on developing People, Puberty, & Periods, a program designed to help youth ages 8–12 better understand their bodies and advocate for their health. This curriculum is now a standard RISE offering.
Rebecca’s work in healthcare, education, community leadership, and her own lived experience fuel her passion for creating educational spaces where all people have access to accurate information and practical tools that reflect the realities of their lives.
Darlene Fogg (she/her)
Dr. Darlene Fogg has been practicing obstetrics and gynegology (OBGYN) in Kingsport, TN for more than 14 years. She received her B.A. from Wellesley College and her M.D. from The University of Miami School of Medicine. She completed her residency in OBGYN at Loyola University School of Medicine.
While Darlene enjoys all aspects of OBGYN, she has a special interest in adolescent medicine. she believes she has a unique opportunity to educate girls and teens about puberty, sexuality, safe relationships, contraception, and sexually transmitted diseases.