Jody’s background is in executive support, project management, property management, and event planning, with extensive experience in creating new systems, streamlining processes, and building relationships with internal and external partners. “Rising Sun’s programs create a foundation for a more sustainable and equitable future for underserved communities. It’s rewarding…

Maria brings over 15 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, with a focus on food access, workforce development, and community outreach. Throughout her career, she worked closely with underserved communities, building programs and partnerships that connect people to critical resources and opportunities. Her work has centered on…

Mackenzie’s background is in multimedia production, education technology, and qualitative research. Prior to joining Rising Sun, she worked on developing government-funded health and education apps for under-resourced and underrepresented communities.  “I’m drawn to how Rising Sun can initiate positive change for individuals, the environment, and broader society. I…

Sneha leads Rising Sun’s Policy work, advocating for programs and laws that advance Rising Sun’s mission in collaboration with a broad range of partners. Her career has spanned many policy organizations, including the Greenlining Institute, the Building Electrification Institute, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and RMI, where she…

A Fresno native, Cynthia developed a deep passion for environmental and climate justice while studying at UC Santa Barbara. Her undergraduate studies propelled her into policy advocacy work, and later to obtaining a master’s degree in environmental policy and management from the University of Denver. Through her advocacy…

Diana joined Rising Sun in 2025. She has a background in data, operations, and inventory analysis. In the past, she worked with a nonprofit focused on education equity, where she supported youth development and gained experience in campaigns, data, and operations. Most recently, Diana worked with a humanitarian…

Sean joined Rising Sun in 2025, and his path here has been shaped by both his education and hands-on experience working with youth and the environment. He studied outdoor leadership, which sparked a deep appreciation for the environment and helped him see it as God’s masterpiece, something meaningful…

Andrea has been at Rising Sun since 2024, and brings over a decade of experience in the nonprofit space. The bulk of her experience is in nonprofit development (including grant management, program development, and strategy) and the environmental justice movement (with a particular emphasis in policy advocacy and…

What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you? I love Rising Sun’s emphasis on economic equity as a key part of achieving climate resilience and climate justice. It is precisely these principles that are at the heart of achieving lasting sustainability. I believe that empowering…

What is it about Rising Sun’s mission and vision that resonates with you? The mission and vision of Rising Sun Center for Opportunity resonates with me because it supports all individuals in obtaining meaningful employment opportunities while also promoting sustainable practices. What do you love about working at Rising Sun?…