Staff

Executive Director

With over 20 years dedicated to the non-profit and social services sectors, Markus Watts brings a wealth of experience as an administrator, educator, and consultant. His most recent role as Business Services Consultant for the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, highlights his commitment to impactful work.

Watts is particularly adept at developing and implementing best practices for supporting economically disadvantaged, first-generation youth and adults, and individuals with disabilities. His expertise extends to fostering inclusive environments for people from all identities, cultures, and socio-economic backgrounds. His career includes significant contributions at the University of Wisconsin – Whitewater, Opportunities Industrialization Center, Inc. of Racine County, the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Milwaukee, and the YMCA of Metropolitan Milwaukee.

Academically, Watts earned his bachelor’s degree in political science (with a focus on public administration) from Wilberforce University and a master’s degree in public administration (emphasizing social agency administration) from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh. Beyond his professional life, he is a member of St. Mark African Methodist Episcopal Church (Milwaukee Wisconsin ) and holds a Life Membership with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Program Director, Walk-in & Homeless Services

Lorianne started as a volunteer at RKVM in 2005. She quickly made herself a useful part of the RKVM team. Leveraging her nearly two decades of experience with the organization since 2005, she is responsible for overseeing participant intake assessments (for walk-in & homeless participants) and facilitation of the impactful Solutions for Success workshop, which focuses on employment readiness and life skills development. Lorianne’s diverse background includes a BA in Mathematics with minors in Business Administration and Computer Science, from Albany State University (formally Albany State College). She has numerous years of practical experience in data management across corporate and non-profit sectors, as well as a history of working in GED and ABE programs. Her data management experience is valuable in helping RKVM glean data needed for reports and grants.

Lorianne is a recipient of Safe Haven’s Community Partnership Award (2007), Endel Williams Community Asset Award (2007) and the Woman of the Year Award through the Racine Dominican Sisters (2013). She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Lori (anne) is passionate about further developing her expertise. She continually seeks out opportunities to learn and to apply that knowledge to improve on serving at RKVM. She aims to complete a master’s degree in social work and social ministry.

Second Chance Program Coordinator

Entry to RKVM for Hope began in 2013 as a participant. While as a participant she worked various jobs, gaining skills for her life. In 2014, she began her Human Services Curriculum, earning an Associates, followed by a Bachelor of Social Work at Carthage College. Prior to graduation Hope worked as a Recovery Coach and OWI Assessor and when she graduated, she knew she wanted to come back to RKVM. Hope’s unbridled passion shows when she is working with the participants. Understanding how the smallest barriers can easily derail an individual’s circumstances. Hope loves socializing, she believes that it is important for reentrants to understand the benefits of positive interactions. Outside of work, Hope is a mom, a lover of cats, Hello Kitty, and seeking a Master of Criminal Justice from Walden University. 

Homeless Case Manager

Debra Barkley joined RKVM in March 2023 as a Homeless Case Manager, bringing a powerful, firsthand perspective to her role. As a former participant in our Jobs program, Debra truly understands the journey of those she serves. Her deep passion for helping others and strengthening our community shines through in every interaction.

Before RKVM, Debra gained significant experience as a Site Staff Supervisor at Halo Homeless Shelter and as a Counselor II in Milwaukee. She holds an Associate Degree in Administration in Human Services and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with a concentration in Addiction Studies from Springfield College, further solidifying her commitment to empowering individuals.