ABOUT RISE
With a desire to ensure that veterans and first responders have a seat at the table and a community to connect with, RISE: Veterans was established in 2018. By 2024, RISE expanded its programming to include first responders, recognizing the strong connection between veterans and first responders—many of whom share similar experiences, challenges, and callings to serve. Research shows that approximately 30% of first responders are veterans, highlighting the natural overlap in these communities. RISE partners with a wide range of organizations to build impactful programs, showcase the stories of veterans and proudly hosted Pennsylvania’s first-ever award show honoring veterans.
MISSION
RISE’s mission is founded on the principles of representation, inclusion, solidarity, and equity, serving both veterans and first responders. We are dedicated to fostering community, advocating for their unique needs, and promoting healing. Whether through direct support, storytelling, or collaboration, RISE works to empower and uplift those who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting others.
LEADERSHIP
Aryanna Wagner
(she, her, hers)
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
IRAQ WAR VETERAN, VETERAN ADVOCATE, AUTHOR, MOM OF FOUR
Growing up the youngest of ten children in a family that lived below the poverty line, finding a way to make things happen was just a part of life. In 2001, at the age of 18 and answering the call of her nation, Aryanna enlisted with the United States Army just weeks after the terror attacks of 9/11 and served with the XVIII Airborne Corp on the front-lines during Operation Iraqi.​
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Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, an MBA, and a Master’s degree in Public Administration, Aryanna is now pursuing her Ph.D. in Community Engagement at Point Park University in Pittsburgh, PA.
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Currently, Aryanna is a Federal consultant supporting Department of Veterans Affairs initiatives and is LUMA Certified Human Centered Design Practitioner.
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Aryanna is a Defense Council member of the Truman National Security Project, an Oxfam Sisters on the Planet Ambassador, and belongs to many civic organizations to include the NAACP, VFW, The Mission Continues, and others.
Lee Wagner
(he, him, his)
CHIEF WELLNESS DIRECTOR
IRAQ WAR VETERAN, YOGI, ADVOCATE, EXISTENTIALIST, FATHER
Lee Wagner served in the U.S. Marine Corps for eight years and is an Iraq War veteran. Lee’s professional and personal work focuses on helping veterans, active service members, and their families to become better connected with supportive services. Outside of this work, Lee regularly takes part in local social and physical activities, working to better connect Veterans to each other and their communities.
After completing his 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training at Breathe Yoga he became an RYT-200 Registered Yoga Alliance Teacher. In addition to this certification Lee has completed his Warriors at Ease Level 1 Training. This training allows him to teach trauma informed yoga to Veterans.
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Lee holds a Bachelor's degree from Robert Morris University in Organizational Leadership and is pursuing his Master's degree in Community Psychology from Point Park University.
Britt Setaro
(she, her, hers)
CHIEF DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING DIRECTOR
MARKETER, COMMUNITY LEADER, BOY MOM, ADVOCATE, IPA ENTHUSIAST
Growing up with a passion for helping others, Brittany Setaro has dedicated her career to making a difference in the aging and veteran communities of Southwestern Pennsylvania. With a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development and Family Studies from Pennsylvania State University, along with a Gerontology minor, Brittany has built a strong foundation in strategic marketing, relationship management, and compassionate leadership.
Currently, Brittany serves as Director of Marketing at Gateway Hospice, where she promotes community engagement and drives census growth for hospice care across Allegheny and Westmoreland Counties. She also holds the position of Chief Development & Marketing Director at RISE Veterans, where she leads initiatives to raise funds, awareness, and support for veterans' services.
Certified as a Dementia Practitioner, Brittany is deeply committed to her work, fostering impactful connections to improve the lives of those she serves. In addition to her professional roles, Brittany stays active in her community as Executive Committee Chair of the Alzheimer's Association's Longest Day Campaign. Outside of work, Brittany enjoys trying new IPAs, spending time with her two boys and loved ones, and fully embracing her favorite season—fall.