Katharine Purnell Scott - Chairperson
Katharine Purnell Scott is the Chairperson for Rise Orange County. Ms. Scott has worked in the field of business administration in the higher education sector over the past thirty years.
Ms. Scott served as one of the founding members of the RISE Orange County Board of Directors. She was Executive Director from March 2018 to October 2020 and assisted the community during the recovery process for the survivors of Hurricane Irma. Ms. Scott holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Management and a Bachelor degree in Business Administration.
Lisa Cassin - Executive Director and Treasurer
Lisa Cassin serves as the Treasurer and a member of our Board of Directors, and was previously employed as a Hospitality Executive, where she held positions as Treasurer and Senior Vice-President, Financial Services. Her responsibilities included leading large financial teams and managing cash flows for entities with revenues exceeding $1 billion.
Ms. Cassin holds a degree from Pace University and a B.A. in Accounting and Information Services and is a member of the National Corporate Board Association.
Ms. Cassin joined Rise Orange County in March of 2022.
Roger Beckett - Board Member and Board Secretary
Rogers Beckett is part of the Board Members and serves as a Secretary for Rise Orange County Long Term Recovery Group. Roger is a former NFL player who holds a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Marshall University. In recognition of his outstanding athletic achievements, he was inducted into the Marshall University Athletics Hall of Fame in 2009.
Mr. Beckett has since served the City of Apopka, specializing in city planning, and currently leads Beckwood Management Group, Inc
Deacon Wilmar Rojas - Board Member
Deacon Wilmar Rojas is the Director of Operations at Catholic Charities of Central Florida, and he is also a Deacon in the Diocese of Orlando. Deacon Wilmar has proven adept at inspiring, motivating, and collaborating with diverse groups of residents in the community, further contributing to the development of a culture of faith and service at Rise.
Deacon Wilmar’s experience in the construction industry spans over 25 years and provides a wealth of knowledge to our board. As Director of Operations of the Emergency Operations Command for the Diocese of Orlando, Deacon Wilmar’s insights and geographical footprint become a valuable asset.