Our team.

My name is LaTecia Yarbrough, and I was born and raised in California as a multiracial black woman. I am the founder of iRise Wellness, a company whose mission is to educate others while also inspiring people to challenge themselves, encourage self-expression, improve one's community, and engage in creative practices while maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit.

My family is my driving force; they are the ones that helped me get through school. I earned a Master of Science in Higher Education from Mississippi State University and am currently pursuing my Ph.D. at Auburn University. My research interest is on identifying the underlying issues that students of color face in the classroom. As a conduct coordinator, I put in place a framework that allowed students to learn from the discipline process. My family encourages me to dream big and love truly, and these degrees indicate my true desire to help others.

Devore McIntosh is a highly qualified educational professional with a strong background in student affairs and a deep understanding of marginalized populations. He currently works as an Adjunct Faculty member at Central State University, where he uses his expertise to improve the campus experience for students, faculty, and staff. Devore is also committed to raising awareness and increasing viewership for the iRise brand by utilizing his understanding of how different generations communicate and interact. In his free time, Devore enjoys following sports and engaging in various interests, including technology, music, philosophy, competitive races, finance, entrepreneurship, and more. He values spending time with family and friends and is always open to learning new things.

Tony Dent, As a licensed health insurance agent and Director of Community Engagement at iRise Wellness, my work is driven by a commitment to improving the health and well-being of the community. With an understanding of the complex factors that influence access to healthcare, I am able to bring valuable insights to iRise’s initiatives, which focus on providing scholarships and hosting wellness events.

At iRise, we strive to create opportunities for community members to improve their physical, mental, and financial health. My experience in the health insurance field helps inform our wellness events, ensuring that they address critical areas such as health literacy, preventative care, and access to resources. Through these efforts, I aim to foster a more informed and empowered community.

Whether it’s through coordinating educational workshops or engaging with local residents, my work with iRise Wellness is focused on advancing the health and wellness of individuals and families, promoting a holistic approach to well-being that extends beyond healthcare to include community support and engagement.

Michael Wooten brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education and community to his role with iRise Wellness. Hailing from Gray, GA, Michael grew up in a close-knit family environment that instilled in him values of love, dedication, and hard work. Strong family bonds have shaped his journey with his identical twin brother and older sister.

Michael has dedicated nine years to serving as an elementary school special education teacher and registered behavior therapist. For him, teaching is more than a career—it's a calling that inspires him to support the growth and success of the next generation.

Michael's academic background is as diverse as it is distinguished. He earned a bachelor's degree in business administration with a focus on Marketing from Morehouse College, where he developed his skills in management and communication. Building on this foundation, he earned a Master's and Specialist degree in special education. In fall 2024, he is set to begin his doctoral studies in special education, further deepening his expertise in the field.

Michael's life story reflects a unique blend of family values, professional dedication, and academic ambition—all directed toward uplifting others through education and empowerment. His work with iRise Wellness aligns perfectly with his passion for positively impacting his community.