
Michelle Swenson is a founding member and the current Chair of Rise Up’s Leadership Council, a collaborative network of gender justice champions from across the U.S. who share our vision of a more just and equitable world. Over the past 10 years, Michelle has supported Rise Up beyond measure by providing insightful guidance on Rise Up strategic initiatives, planning countless Galas and events, joining our recent Leadership Council trip to Guatemala, and helping us chart our future course. Michelle has been a true partner in helping Rise Up grow and scale our global impact, and we are tremendously grateful for her many contributions and dedication to advancing gender equity.

We asked Michelle to share more about her personal connection to gender equity, how Rise Up has evolved over the last decade, and why she remains steadfast in her commitment to creating a future where everyone can thrive. Read on for how she stays inspired and what she hopes for the future.
What is your personal connection to advancing gender equity and justice?
My initial connection to gender equity was through the lens of reproductive rights and justice. The other lens was my corporate career in an industry that was heavily male, at least when I started. I saw the importance and benefit of gender diversity over the course of my career.
You are the current Chair of the Leadership Council and have been a Council member for over 10 years. How have you seen Rise Up grow and evolve since?
Part of the reason that Rise Up has grown so successfully is that it has stayed true to key founding principles. While the idea that social change should be led by people in the communities who will be impacted is widespread today, that hasn’t always been true — Rise Up was a pioneer in that regard. And Rise Up has always invested in measuring and honestly evaluating its impact, another best practice. The number of organizations working on gender equity issues has grown over the last 15 years and I’ve been impressed that Rise Up periodically and intentionally asks itself how it can add the most value as it and other players continue to evolve.
What have been the most meaningful and rewarding aspects of being a part of the Leadership Council?
First of all, the work that Rise Up does, the lives that are enhanced, is important. It makes me feel good to know this work is happening in the world even when I have no direct involvement. Second, the Rise Up community – the staff, the Leadership Council members – are all really lovely people. A great group to be “doing good” with.
We are celebrating Rise Up’s 15th anniversary this year, and as we look ahead to the next 15 years, what are your hopes for what we will accomplish together?
It feels like the relatively low level of philanthropic funding for gender equity and justice has been stuck for decades. I’m not sure what it will take to budge that, but as Rise Up grows it is certainly making the case that greater funding is not only the right thing to do, but a smart thing to do.
We encourage you to learn more about Rise Up’s Leadership Council and consider joining this active learning community. Members bring diverse backgrounds and experiences from across the corporate, philanthropic, and social impact sectors and find connection through their dedication to gender equity.