Risen Collective Team
Mark Baker
Director
Dr. Mark Baker and his wife, Ashley, are members of Risen Northwest and live in the Cypress area. As Director, he teaches Institute classes, oversees Bible studies, the residency program and the Collective’s cohort. In addition to serving as the Risen Collective’s Director, he is an elder and the Pastor of Equipping and Missions at Risen Northwest. He loves studying God’s Word with God’s people - “That’s what makes me feel most alive!”.
Kari Roberson
Curriculum Specialist
Kari and Casey Roberson are members of Risen Northwest and live in the Cypress area. Together, they have served as MC leaders. Additionally, Kari has served the church as a Bible study leader and as a curriculum specialist for the Risen Collective. Kari is passionate about developing resources that invite people to engage with God’s Word, discover who he is, and know the depth of his great love revealed in Scripture.
Risen Residents
Risen residents are individuals engaged in structured training programs within a Risen Church or The Risen Collective aimed at developing future ministry leaders. These residencies offer hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities to explore one's calling while serving alongside experienced church leaders. There are both church planting residents and ministry residents.
Gus Fraser
Ministry Resident
Gus Fraser has joined the Risen Collective as a part-time Ministry Resident. Gus is passionate about impacting teens with the Gospel of Jesus Christ and is currently serving in the Student Ministry. He is part of the Collective’s cohort and will also be serving as a Bible Study leader starting in January. Gus and Areanna are members of Risen Northwest and live in the Magnolia area. They have three children, Ida Mae, Aaliyah and Aria.
Mike Valleskey
Church Planting Resident
Mike and Debbie Valleskey are members of Risen Northwest and live in the Cypress area. Together they have served on the Engage team, as MC leaders, in the Prayer ministry and in Kids. In addition, Mike has been serving the church as a Bible study leader and as a part-time ministry resident for the Collective, preaching and teaching. He was recently announced as the lead church planter for a new Houston location.