Board of Directors

Dr. Jacqueline
Thompson

Jacqueline Thompson is a native of Nashville, TN. She is the oldest of nine children that were born to retired TSgt. David and Margie Royston. She is married to Edward Thompson, who retired as a Contracting Supervisor at Hill Air Force Base. They have 2 sons, 2 daughter in-laws and 4 grandchildren. Dr. Thompson graduated from Highlands High School in North Highlands, CA in 1974. She received a BA in Elementary Education from Idaho State University in Pocatello, ID in 1978. In June 1997, she graduated from Weber State University in the Master of Education Program. She received her Doctorate Degree in Education from Utah State University in May 2010.

In 2018, Dr. Thompson retired from Davis School District as the Director of the Educational Equity Department. She went back in 2021 as the Assistant Superintendent

Dr. Thompson received numerous awards and national recognition. She is a community treasure and champion. When you say Dr. Jackie's name, it is met with affection and gratitude for all that she does and continues to do.

Milton Collins

I was born in a small town in Mississippi. My father died when I was seven years old so I was raised by a strong single black woman. I have been divorced for 13 years. I have three children and one granddaughter. I attended Rust College (HBCU) in Holly Springs, Mississippi on a basketball scholarship where I earned my Bachelor's degree in Health and Physical Education. I earned my Master's degree in Educational Leadership from National Louis University in Evanston, Illinois

I just completed my 33rd year in Education. I am currently the principal at Lincoln Elementary School in the Granite School District. I was selected as Elementary Principal of the Year for the 2018-19 school year in Granite School District.

It is an honor to serve on the board of Rise Academy. I promise to do all I can to help guide and mentor our young African American students here in Utah.

Jenny Rock

I'm originally from Indiana but moved to Utah after graduating from BYU-Idaho in 2004. I have taught elementary school and music education at a private school and charter school in the valley. After the birth of my 2nd child, I decided to educate my children at home. I have four children now, and we are enjoying the home school life!

Aside from home education, I volunteer at the Timpanogos Women's Prison, helping expectant inmates through their pregnancy while incarcerated. One of my dreams is to become a midwife and help minorities and their families have better birth experiences.

In 2006 I was a missionary in Switzerland, German speaking, for 18 months. I love and relate to the Swiss because they love chocolate and cheese. I've returned to Europe several times and love to travel internationally.

Performing in musicals and plays is a long-missed pastime; my favorite role was Squeak from The Color Purple. It's been many years since I've performed on stage. I am also passionate about studying Constitutional Law and hope to become more politically involved, defending American freedoms for all citizens.

Bianca Mittendorf

Mrs. Bianca has an extensive background in the nonprofit sector working with children and adults with disabilities. She also previously taught special education at the elementary and middle school levels. Advocating for social and racial justice is her passion and thus she is active in various community organizations. In her downtime, Bianca enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and reading.

Abram Sherrod

Abram Sherrod was born in Pocatello, ID and was raised by his mother and grandmother. They provided him with a strong foundation and a love for learning. Abram was among the first in his family to attend college on his mothers side. He was introduced to higher education at a young age because his uncle was in the process of finishing his Doctorate in Political Science at Idaho State University. Abram would follow in his path and received a bachelors in Political Science and Sociology. He would continue with his education pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration with an emphasis in state, local, and nonprofit institutions.

Abram has worked with youth since he was 16 years old. He got his start working at a community pool, but has since worked with youth in a school and community program environments. His current role has brought him to the city of South Salt Lake City as the Community Opportunity Center Supervisor.

Abram is dedicated to creating safe environments for all residents regardless of their background. Serving on the Rise Academy board presents another opportunity to serve and advocate for his community.