Mrs. Paige Richardson is the newly appointed CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of the Haliwa-Saponi Tribe. She is a proud member of the Lumbee Tribe and now resides among her Haliwa-Saponi relatives, where she is committed to serving and uplifting the community. Mrs. Richardson holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in American Indian Studies from UNCP (Go Braves), bringing both educational knowledge and cultural understanding to her leadership role.

As a child, she spent most of her time growing up at the Boys and Girls Club of the Lumbee Tribe. That experience helped shape who she is today, allowing her to better understand her identity as a Native woman. Through those years, she developed a deep appreciation for the power of community, culture, and equal opportunity for youth. As CEO, Mrs. Richardson is dedicated to ensuring that every child has a positive and meaningful experience at the Boys and Girls Club—one where they can grow into their own person while remaining strongly connected to their culture and their tribe.

In her spare time, Mrs. Richardson enjoys beading, sewing, and hunting with her husband.

As the Unit Director, I bring nine years of teaching experience alongside a deep commitment to creating safe, nurturing spaces where children can grow, thrive and discover their potential. I oversee daily site operations, continue my role as a Youth Development Professional, support the CEO in planning, budgeting, and organizational strategy, all while maintaining my drive for efficiency and meaningful relationship-building with the youth and families I serve. 

As a Middle Grades Math Teacher and parent of two, I understand firsthand the importance of balancing education, community and family. I am set to earn my Master’s in December 2026, a testament to my belief in lifelong learning. Outside of work, I enjoy crafting, exploring new hobbies, researching, and spending time with my kids. 

I am excited to leverage my experiences, collaborative spirit, and innovative mindset to push the BGC to new heights, while actively helping my community truly thrive.

Marisa Harley- I work with the Boys & Girls Club of Haliwa-Saponi Tribe as a Youth Development Professional, and I teach 3rd–5th grade math and science at the Haliwa-Saponi Tribal School in Warren County.

Before becoming a teacher, I worked in juvenile justice and in nonprofit organizations focused on youth development and family services. Those experiences shaped my belief in creating a caring, encouraging learning environment where every child feels supported. As a community member, my goal is to help our future generations grow and strengthen our tribal community. I am also a proud mother of two and am currently pursuing my master’s degree, which continues to deepen my commitment to education and lifelong learning.

Outside of school, I enjoy sewing, gardening, raising chickens, arts and crafts, and woodworking with my husband.

I’m an educator and behavioral specialist with over 15 years of experience working with at-risk youth and students with diverse needs, and I’ve recently started teaching special education. I also spent the past three years working as a Youth Development Professional (YDP) with the Boys & Girls Club, where I supported youth through mentorship and structured programming. 

My background includes developing IEPs, supporting student behavior, and working closely with families, teachers, and community partners to help students succeed both in and out of the classroom. I’ve also spent several years in juvenile justice and social services, which has shaped how I build relationships, manage challenges, and advocate for students. I recently earned my MAT Special Education from UNC Pembroke and am looking to continue growing as a school educator while helping create positive, supportive learning environments for all students.