Youth RISE Foundation Staff Directory

Marcus Anders, SHRM-SCP, CMM, CHC, is the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and Chief Executive Officer of Youth RISE Foundation. He provides strategic leadership and oversees the Foundation’s mission to promote youth empowerment through mentorship, leadership development, education, workforce readiness, and community engagement. With a strong background in healthcare leadership, human resources, and nonprofit management, Marcus is dedicated to utilizing various leadership resources to build partnerships and create opportunities that inspire the next generation of leaders. For more information, please refer to the Staff Directory.

Maryann Roth serves as Chief Operating Officer of Youth RISE Foundation, where she leads organizational operations, strategic planning, program development, and initiatives that strengthen the Foundation’s impact on youth and young adults. An accomplished organizational and educational leader, Maryann brings extensive experience in program management, team leadership, process improvement, and organizational development. She holds a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Denver, as well as Master of Science degrees in Business Administration and Management and Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University. She also earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Colorado State University and an Associate of Applied Science in Paralegal Studies from Kaplan University. Her multidisciplinary academic background across business, organizational leadership, education, and legal studies complements her ability to build effective systems, lead teams, and drive strategic growth for Youth RISE Foundation.

Ross Walton serves as Chief Financial Officer of Youth RISE Foundation, where he provides financial leadership and oversight to support the organization’s long-term sustainability and growth. With extensive experience in accounting, financial management, budgeting, financial reporting, compliance, and healthcare finance, Ross brings a strong background in managing complex financial operations and supporting executive decision-making. Throughout his career, he has served as a Financial Controller, Controller, Financial Analyst, Senior Accountant, and Accountant, overseeing accounting functions, payroll, accounts payable and receivable, budgeting, financial controls, audits, regulatory compliance, and financial performance reporting. He holds a Master of Professional Accountancy from Delta State University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Jackson State University, complemented by an Associate of Arts in General Studies from Hinds Community College.

Dr. Justin Standifer serves as Chief Learning Officer of the Youth RISE Foundation, where he leads educational initiatives focused on youth empowerment for students and emerging professionals. With extensive experience in academic advising, student success, college counseling, and educational leadership, Dr. Standifer is dedicated to advancing learning opportunities. For more information on his initiatives and to explore our leadership resources, please refer to the staff directory, where you can discover how we help individuals achieve their academic and professional goals.