Meet Our Newest Board Member!

By Merritt Frey, Executive Director

We've been remiss in introducing Mali Rising's newest member of the board of directors -- Courtney Colter. Courtney joined our board last fall, and jumped right into the thick of things by filling her table at the annual Soiree with generous friends and family. Since then, she's been helping out by using her expertise in finance to make sure we're running a tight ship. In fact, at our January board meeting Courtney was elected our board Treasurer.

Courtney is a Credit Risk Analyst at Morgan Stanley here in Salt Lake City, Utah. We asked Courtney a few questions to help everyone get to know her a bit better:

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How did you discover Mali Rising Foundation?
I was interested in joining a board and I found Mali Rising on a website called Board Net USA. 

Why were you interested in serving on a board?
I think giving back is so important. I volunteer regularly with my dog who is a therapy dog, and I wanted to share my skills with an organization that could use them.

What skills and interests are you hoping you can put to work at Mali Rising?
My background is in finance so I am hoping that I will be able provide help with the financial affairs of the organization. 

You’ve been on the board for just a few months now. Does it match your expectations – for good or for ill?
This is my first time being on a board so I didn’t have many expectations. 

What’s one thing you’ve learned about Mali Rising’s work that has surprised or especially interested you?
I was surprised at how inaccessible school is to the children in Mali. Many have to travel very far by foot or bicycle to get to school every day. 

If you were to meet someone considering joining Mali Rising’s board, what would you tell them they should know about the experience so far? 
It is a really rewarding organization to be a part of. It has also been a great learning experience for me.

Outside of work and volunteering on Mali Rising’s board, what do you like to do with your time?
I enjoy traveling, dancing, baking, attending Broadway shows, watching college football, and spending time with my friends and family. 

Thanks for joining Mali Rising's leadership Courtney! Learn more about our board and getting involved.