Scott Batie is a 5th Grade teacher at Hulbert Public Schools, but his most important role is being a father to Ava, Eli, Jonah, and Bella and a husband to Amy. This big job led to his current role as founder and director of Rise Up, Inc. His family inspires him daily to make the world a better place by spreading access to education across the globe, one small village at a time. In his free time he enjoys mountain biking, cruising around in his VW bus, and collecting and listening to records.

Chris Garrett is the Assistant Director of Enterprise Systems at Northeastern State University. He is also an incredibly talented photographer, a tech enthusiast, and a kid at heart. He not only volunteers for Rise Up, but also works tirelessly to raise both funds and awareness for the Huntington’s Disease Society of America. He keeps our team connected and up to date with the latest technological advancements and makes incredibly confusing tech seem simple.

John Yeutter is a retired Emeritus Associate Accounting Professor at Northeastern State University. He received his PhD from OU in 1996 and became a legend in both the classroom and the stands of Northeastern State University for his mustachioed, green-man, super-fan costumes. He is the highlight of any sporting event he attends and is easily the most colorful sports fan in Tahlequah. He is also a recent candidate for Oklahoma State Treasurer and is well known locally for his activism for racial equality. He is a man of great integrity and is passionate and proactive about making positive change in the world.

Joe Mack is a man of many talents, and he generously shares them all with our organization. He is the founder of Wicked Pickle, an independent entertainment production and consulting company. He is also a Multi-Media Marketing Specialist for the Tahlequah Daily Press. He funds his playcations through his incredible musicianship and can usually be found playing the guitar and singing his songs for supper somewhere between Tahlequah and Colorado.

Heather Ezell is the fascinating and fabulous owner of Hang Zen Yoga on Lake Tenkiller. She is also a talented sommelier, lover of flowers, fine food, and all things that bring light and beauty into the world. She shares all these gifts and more with our organization. She oozes calm, class, and kindness and inspires us all to be better global citizens.

Tamarkia Fisher is a Children First RN and Lactation Consultant at Cherokee County Health Department during the day and an amazing mother by night. When not advocating on the front lines for women and children, she enjoys mountain biking and hiking in the great outdoors. She is an organizational wonder and shares her knowledge and time with Rise Up selflessly.

Chuchu Yohannes is a tour guide who loves to share the beauty and culture of his Ethiopian homeland with visitors from across the globe. He works tirelessly as a liaison and translator between Rise Up and our partner organization The Konso Development Association. He also makes sure we have up to date and accurate communication with the local government and the school staff in Konso. In addition he serves as a photographer, driver, guide, and a valued friend.

Rise Up wouldn’t exist without the generosity of Ephrim Bekurtsion. He introduced our organization to every facet of Ethiopia. He is our driver, fixer, translator and cultural ambassador. He provides both lodging and transportation for our team when in Ethiopia. He is a respected family man and business owner who lives to share his knowledge of the wildlife and wonder of Ethiopia.