Celebrating a New Chapter

Chantal Wentz Steps Into a Leadership Role at NCCW

At RISE, growth often looks like people stepping more fully into their gifts, and we’re excited to share news that reflects exactly that.

After nearly seven years as RISE’s Volunteer Relations Manager, Chantal Wentz is transitioning into a new role as Prison Program Coordinator at the Nebraska Correctional Center for Women (NCCW). In this role, Chantal will serve as RISE’s on-site educator and program lead inside the facility, working directly with participants and guiding cohorts through RISE programming.

Chantal brings a rare combination of steadiness, empathy, and relational leadership to this role. Her ability to connect authentically with the women at NCCW has always been one of her greatest strengths, and this position allows her to lean fully into that gift. Watching her step into this role feels not only exciting, but incredibly right.

As part of this transition, McKenzie Ring, RISE’s Director of Marketing and Communications, will serve as Interim Volunteer Relations Manager beginning February 16, 2026, while RISE moves through the application and hiring process for the position.

“I first met Chantal at NCCW in 2018 under somewhat chaotic circumstances—I dropped a bolt from a step-and-repeat banner down a floor air vent,” McKenzie recalls. “After the initial shock wore off, Chantal calmly found a replacement, we laughed, and we became instant friends.”

McKenzie and Chantal began working at RISE full time nearly the same week and quickly became close collaborators. Over the years, they’ve been thought-partners, teammates, and champions of one another’s work.

“While I’ll miss having Chantal by my side in her former role, there is no one cheering her on more loudly than I am,” McKenzie said. “She’s stepping into a space that needs hope, consistency, and care—and she is exactly the right person for that work.”

Chantal’s transition is a reminder of what’s possible when people are supported, trusted, and encouraged to grow. We’re proud of her, grateful for her years of leadership in volunteer engagement, and excited for the impact she will continue to make inside NCCW.

And for those hoping to see Chantal around? There’s always room to volunteer at NCCW!

Looking to volunteer? Contact McKenzie, here.