Alicia Whaley
Director of Programs
Alicia Whaley is the Director of Programs for RiseUp Partnership, where she oversees the organization's mentoring, afterschool and summer programming, family navigation, and community initiatives. She stepped into the role in 2026 after four years with RiseUp Partnership, which began as an undergraduate social work field placement.
Before moving into program leadership, Alicia facilitated mentoring sessions and the Social Emotional Learning curriculum for RiseUp Partnership, pairing peer mentors with youth mentees at Twin Bluff Middle School and helping high school mentors plan sessions built around relationships and connection. She also oversaw a space at both Red Wing High School and Tower View Alternative High School where students could decompress, find academic support, or socialize with RiseUp Partnership adults on hand. That direct work continues to shape how she leads. She is passionate about supporting adolescents through the tumultuous transition into adulthood and loves guiding them as they reach their potential.
Alicia is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker in Minnesota with a Master of Social Work from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and a B.A. in Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. She lives in Hudson with her two sons, and they spend their time together playing sports and getting outdoors.