Kristy Riordan
Director of Research & Evaluation

Tell us about your career path. What were you doing before Ripple Effect? 

After years of studying and training to be a teacher, I realized I cared more about social science and big-picture policies that affect lives, rather than being the one teaching reading and math. So, I switched gears. Before Ripple Effect, I worked for the Army and evaluated behavioral health programs. 

What’s a hobby of yours? 

I am an avid reader, especially Stephen King novels. It’s hard to find the time with three kids, but getting to read on vacation or on an airplane is when I’m the happiest. 

Why is Research and Evaluation so important to what Ripple Effect does? 

If you aren’t willing to look at yourself and see how you can improve, you probably aren’t approaching your business in a way that has fidelity. The government hasn’t always done this well, but we do! So, we help clients measure, analyze, and better understand how to improve and learn from past mistakes.  

What is a funny quirk about you that people might not know? 

I’m a big germaphobe. Being a health researcher doesn’t help that.

Advice you would give a young professional? 

What my father always told me: You are going to work for the vast majority of your life, so do something you can take pride in and enjoy doing.  

Tierra Terrell-Johnson
Senior Human Resources Manager

Tell us about your career path. How did you get here?

I studied at the University of Wisconsin-Madison (Go Badgers!) and got my MBA from Concordia University. I concentrated on Human Resource Management because I wanted to prove that HR professionals can be analytical, strategic, and have a seat at the business table.

What motivates you?

I’ve made it my mission to ensure that when you come to work at Ripple Effect, you bring your whole self and feel comfortable doing so. We’re all equal here, and I will always fight for that.

What are some of your hobbies?

I love to organize (and color-coordinate!) I’d be a professional organizer if I could. My favorite store is Staples—I could spend a whole paycheck there.

Advice for future professionals entering your field?

Develop your people’s leadership skills, especially junior employees. Train them and involve them. As companies grow, they need succession plans—and if you invest in your people, they will invest in the company in return.