Our board members play a vital role in helping guide our mission and expand opportunities for young people through music education and mentorship. Today, we’re highlighting Desiree “Dezi Speaks” Riley, who has been an important part of supporting our students and programs.
She is the mother of five wonderful humans, a social entrepreneur, author, and alumna of The Ohio State University. Dezi spends most of her time traveling, homeschooling, and serving her community through The MasterMind Cooperative; a leadership development nonprofit she founded, based in Philadelphia. We spoke with them about their journey, their connection to the organization, and why they believe this work matters.
"My family loves Rock to the Future. My son, John (who just turned 20), was part of Rock to the Future since 2019. We experienced many showcases, watched him enjoy college tours, make new friends, learn new skills, and significant resources toward his educational future. There was no reason not to join the board.
I'm a nonprofit leader, homeschooling mother of 5, and a creative. As a person who also has experience with incarceration and community trauma, I support all programming that offers tangible solutions for our young people.
I believe that music changes lives, and has the power to save lives. I was in choirs most of my life, until I had my first child. My favorite artistic experiences included High School Show Choir, University Gospel Choir, or stage plays.
It's the future of Rock to the Future that excites me the most. I've seen the growth, it's a hockeystick."
