Introducing Our Newest Board Members: Laurie White and Dionne Young!
Laurie White (they/she)
We are thrilled to welcome Laurie White (they/she) as one of the newest members of our Board of Directors! Laurie has been a dedicated volunteer speaker with Arise & Flourish for five years, also contributing to our fundraising and community education initiatives.
With decades of experience in communications, journalism, education, and outreach across nonprofit organizations, higher education, and local government- as well as over a decade in long-term recovery from addiction- Laurie brings both professional expertise and personal commitment to our mission.
A writer and teacher deeply devoted to civil rights, social action, and public health, they have dedicated their career to harnessing the power of storytelling to inspire positive change. Laurie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Hearing & Speech Sciences from the University of Maryland, College Park, as well as a Master’s degree in Multimedia Journalism from the University of Maryland and a Master’s in Counseling from the University of Dayton.
Dionne Young (she/her)
We are delighted to welcome Dionne Young (she/her) to our Board of Directors! Dionne is a Virginia educator with a strong background in behavioral health and special education, and has long been passionate about empowering and mentoring the youth. She sponsored and led a mentorship group for high school-aged girls, creating a safe and supportive space to navigate societal and personal pressures while building community and confidence.
With extensive experience working with students impacted by substance use, Dionne brings invaluable insight into supporting youth as they face emotional challenges, helping them make healthy choices. Her commitment to prevention, education, and advocacy aligns deeply with our mission at Arise & Flourish.
Dionne holds a B.S. in Care, Health, and Society with a Minor in Spanish from the University of Arizona, as well as a Master’s in Special Education from George Mason University.
Learn more about Laurie, Dionne, and the rest of the A&F team by clicking on their pictures on our “About Us” page.