AzBusiness July/August 2025

PURPOSE LEADING WITH

Greenberg Traurig salutes these women leading the charge for impactful organizations across Arizona.

Our Phoenix attorneys are honored to support these vital groups through pro bono legal work, charitable giving, and board service, contributing our time and experience to help shape a brighter, more connected future.

In collaboration with some of our featured community allies, we are committed to strengthening Greater Phoenix and championing the people who call it home.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 2025 ARIZONA MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN!

Your leadership is lighting the way forward.

COPA HEALTH

As CEO of Copa Health, I extend our heartfelt thanks to Greenberg Traurig for their unwavering support and legal guidance, which have been vital in helping us serve our community’s most underserved and marginalized members. Their generosity through Copa Cares and the active involvement of their team have made a meaningful impact. We are deeply grateful for GT’s allyship, which strengthens our ability to uplift those who need it most. Together, we are making a difference.

Working with Copa Health has been incredibly rewarding, not just for the lives they help change, but for the lasting relationships we’ve built along the way. Under Shar’s leadership, Copa Health thrives, providing critical services to those in need. I’m proud to support charitable efforts like the Copa Cares Gala, which directly benefit the individuals and families who rely on these programs.

CHRYSALIS FOUNDATION

Eli Ditlevson, Chief Executive Leader

Chrysalis is grateful for Greenberg Traurig’s unwavering commitment to community service. Their guidance and pro bono legal counsel are a nonprofit leader’s dream –providing the clarity and confidence we need to move forward. Having Lindsay serve on the Chrysalis Board of Directors is more than a privilege. Her knowledge and dedication help us navigate complex legal challenges so we can remain focused on what matters most: empowering individuals impacted by abuse.

Serving on the board of Chrysalis has been one of the most meaningful commitments in my career. Eli and her team build hope, inspire change, and transform lives. Every decision they make helps create safer homes, stronger communities, and a future free from violence.

Lindsay J. Fiore | GT Shareholder Chrysalis Board Member

Dr. Shar Najafi-Piper, CEO

Jake B. Smith | GT Shareholder Copa Cares Committed Sponsor

FRESH START WOMEN’S FOUNDATION

Kim McWaters, President and CEO

Fresh Start is proud to work alongside Greenberg Traurig in empowering Arizona women on their journey to self-sufficiency. A committed supporter since 2000, Greenberg Traurig has made a lasting impact through decades of engagement, with team members serving on our Executive and Men’s Boards. We are deeply grateful for this enduring relationship and the shared commitment to helping women thrive for generations to come.

Fresh Start Women’s Foundation creates measurable opportunities to empower women on their path to economic independence and personal success.

I’m proud to support programs that make a real difference. Under Kim’s dedicated leadership, Fresh Start continues to transform lives and help women build brighter futures.

Jeremy D. Zangara | GT Co-Managing Shareholder

Board Member

Fresh Start Men’s

Honoring the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2025

More than 2,200 women were under consideration to be the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2025. Our judging panel selected 48 women. These 48 women are special.

Honoring and recognizing the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business is essential for fostering a more inclusive, dynamic and forward-thinking economic landscape. These trailblazing women not only break barriers in traditionally maledominated industries, but they also serve as role models who inspire the next generation of leaders — both women and men. Their achievements demonstrate the value of diverse leadership, innovative thinking and resilience in driving business success and community impact.

Recognizing these influential women publicly helps amplify their voices, celebrate their accomplishments and spotlight the critical roles they play in shaping Arizona’s future. It also challenges outdated norms and promotes equity in boardrooms, executive suites and entrepreneurial ventures. As Arizona continues to evolve as a hub for innovation, real estate, finance, technology, healthcare and education, women leaders are essential contributors to the state’s growth and transformation. Celebrating their influence isn’t just about accolades — it’s about shifting culture, providing visibility and creating opportunities. It encourages companies to invest in and elevate female talent and it reminds young professionals that their ambitions are valid and achievable. In a state as diverse and dynamic as Arizona, honoring the women who lead with vision, courage and compassion strengthens the business community and sets a powerful example of what inclusive success looks like. By recognizing these women, we not only honor their accomplishments — we affirm our commitment to a future where leadership knows no gender and opportunity is accessible to all.

Enjoy this issue of Az Business. And take away some best practices from the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2025.

Michael Gossie Editor in chief

REIMAGINE BUSINESS DELIVER IMPACT

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SHOUT-OUTS

Arizona Diamondbacks impact Arizona nonprofits

Six Arizona-based nonprofits will be able make a powerful impact in their communities reaching across the state thanks to a combined $946,000 in funding grants through the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation’s 2025 Ken Kendrick Grand Slam Awards. Established in 2002, this signature grant program has awarded more than $11.2 million to organizations across Arizona to support transformative, large-scale projects that drive long-term change by helping them expand services, improve operations and better serve those in need. These grants are a cornerstone of the D-backs’ broader community giving efforts, which have now surpassed $93 million in total impact.

Here are the recipients of the Arizona Diamondbacks’ awards:

• Benevilla Benefitness Adaptive Gym

• Catholic Charities Arizona’s Legacy Foundation Christine Stamper Center for Help & Hope

• Chrysalis, which works to prevent and respond to domestic violence

• New Life Center, which has been a leader in providing emergency shelter and services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Arizona

• Sun Life Health, a nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center serving over 47,000 patients annually

• Yuma Community Food Bank, which provided food to over 300,000 individuals in 2023

SHOUT OUT

“Congratulations to all the innovators who have been named one of Arizona’s Most Influential Women of 2025. Your leadership, vision, and dedication inspire countless others. Thank you for blazing trails, lifting others and shaping a stronger future for our communities. This honor is so well deserved.”

Amy Lindsey Publisher AZ Big Media

President and CEO: Michael Atkinson

Vice president and publisher: Amy Lindsey

EDITORIAL

Editor in chief: Michael Gossie

Associate editor: Kyle Backer

Staff writer: Lux Butler

Contributing writers: Alison Balin Batz | Megan Ruffentine

Erin Thorburn

Intern: Isaac Chavez

ART

Creative services manager: Bruce Andersen

Chief photographer: Mike Mertes

Junior graphic designer: Leslie Durazo

MARKETING/EVENTS

Marketing and events director: Jacque Duhame

OFFICE

Director of finance: Sara Fregapane

Operations coordinator: Michelle Zesati

Database solutions manager: Amanda Bruno

AZRE | PTK

Director of sales: Ann McSherry

AZ BUSINESS MAGAZINE

Sales manager: April Rice

Account executive: Tom Allen | Maria Hansen | Lula Hunteman

AZ BUSINESS LEADERS

EXPERIENCE ARIZONA | PLAY BALL

Director of sales: David Harken

RANKING ARIZONA

Director of sales: Sheri King

Az Business magazine is published bi-monthly by AZ Big Media, 3101 N. Central Ave. Suite 1070, Phoenix, Arizona 85012, (602) 277-6045. The publisher accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or artwork. Submissions will not be returned unless accompanied by a SASE. Single copy price $4.95. Bulk rates available. Copyright 2025 by AZ Big Media. All rights reserved. No part of this publication can be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from AZ Big Media.

ARIZONA’S BUSINESS

Here are 15 emerging business categories gaining traction in the Grand Canyon State

Here are 15 emerging business categories gaining traction in Arizona, with brief explanations and examples of local companies in each sector:

1. Battery and energy storage

Explanation: The state is investing in battery production and storage solutions. Example: American Battery Factory is developing a battery cell gigafactory in Tucson.

2. Aerospace and space tech

Explanation: Space innovation is expanding with commercial and defense applications. Example: Vector Launch develops small satellite launch systems in Tucson.

3. ClimateTech and water conservation

Explanation: Companies are tackling drought and climate issues.

Example: Water Resource Technologies develops smart irrigation systems.

4. Telehealth and digital healthcare

Explanation: Remote care services are growing rapidly.

Example: eVisit, based in Mesa, offers virtual care platforms for providers.

5. Green building and sustainable construction

Explanation: Demand is rising for eco-friendly design and LEED-certified construction. Example: Venn Construction integrates sustainability into commercial projects.

6. AgriTech and urban farming

Explanation: Innovative farming methods are emerging in cities.

Example: Vertical Farming Arizona focuses on hydroponic urban agriculture.

7. Advanced manufacturing and automation

Explanation: Robotics and precision manufacturing are key to industrial growth. Example: Benchmark Electronics specializes in advanced product design and automation.

8. Drone technology and services

Explanation: Drones are used in logistics, mapping and agriculture.

Example: Airobotics, operating in Scottsdale, offers autonomous drone solutions.

9. Digital marketing and influencer agencies

Explanation: Online branding and content creation are booming.

Example: LaneTerralever is a top Phoenixbased digital marketing agency.

10. Craft beverage and bicrobreweries

Explanation: Local craft beer and spirits are in high demand.

Example: Arizona Wilderness Brewing Co. champions sustainability and local ingredients.

11. E-commerce fulfillment and logistics

Explanation: Distribution hubs are expanding for online retail.

Example: XPO Logistics operates fulfillment centers in Greater Phoenix.

12. Cybersecurity and data centers

Explanation: With more tech companies, demand for cybersecurity and secure storage grows.

Example: Iron Mountain operates one of the largest data centers in Phoenix.

13. AI and machine learning startups

Explanation: AI applications in healthcare, finance and retail are expanding.

Example: Neolight, based in Scottsdale, uses AI to treat neonatal jaundice.

14. Wellness and boutique fitness

Explanation: Arizona’s health-conscious culture supports fitness innovation.

Example: F45 Training and StretchLab locations are booming across the state.

15. EdTech and workforce training platforms

Explanation: Education tech helps prepare the future workforce.

Example: CampusLogic, based in Chandler, streamlines student financial aid processes.

Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock

THE BEST SENIOR LIVING COMMUNITIES IN ARIZONA TRENDSETTERS

U.S. News & World Report, a global authority in healthcare rankings and consumer advice, announced the 2025 Best Senior Living communities ratings. The 2025 edition names 1,894 Best Senior Living communities.

The ratings are based on a national survey of residents and their family members. In 2025, U.S. News analyzed data from nearly 450,000 resident and family survey responses at more than 3,800 senior living communities nationwide. The survey asked residents and family members

BEST INDEPENDENT LIVING COMMUNITIES

All Seasons Oro Valley

Atria Chandler Villas

Brookdale Apache Junction

Brookdale Springs Mesa

Fairwinds-Desert Point

Friendship Village of Tempe

McDowell Village

Pueblo Norte Senior Living

Solstice Senior Living at Sun City West

The Terraces of Phoenix

Tuscany at McCormick Ranch

Verena at Gilbert

Vi at Silverstone

Vista Del Rio

about their satisfaction with community safety, caregiving, activities, management, staff, food and value, and other aspects of community life.

Now in its fourth year, the Best Senior Living ratings from U.S. News assist seniors and their families in their search for the independent living, assisted living, memory care or continuing care retirement community that best meets their individual and family needs.

Here are the Arizona communities and facilities that earned “high-performing” ratings in the Best Senior Living analysis:

BEST ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES

Brookdale Apache Junction

Brookdale Chandler Ray Road

Brookdale Chandler Regional

Brookdale East Arbor

Brookdale East Tucson

Brookdale Springs Mesa

Clarendale of Chandler

Clearwater Agritopia

Clearwater Ahwatukee

Fairwinds-Desert Point

Glassford Place

La Sonora at Dove Mountain

McDowell Village

Pueblo Norte Senior Living

Sky Vista

Sunrise of Chandler

Sunrise of River Road

Sunrise of Scottsdale

The Gardens of Scottsdale

Vi at Grayhawk

Vi at Silverstone

BEST MEMORY CARE FACILITIES

Brookdale Arrowhead Ranch

Brookdale Camino del Sol

Brookdale Desert Ridge

Brookdale North Glendale

Brookdale North Mesa

Brookdale Tanque Verde

Brookdale Tempe

Brookdale Trail Ridge

Brookdale Union Hills

Canyon Valley Memory Care

Clarendale Arcadia

Clearwater Agritopia

Sunrise of Chandler

Sunrise of River Road

Sunrise of Scottsdale

The Forum at Tucson

The Gardens of Scottsdale

The Ranch Estates of Tucson Tucson Place

Vi at Grayhawk

Vi at Silverstone

Burch

& Cracchiolo is proud to be named one of the

"Top 10 Places for Women to Work in Arizona”

Here are some comments from former Most Influential Women honorees as to why they think B&C is a stellar place to work:

"From day one, I felt a genuine commitment to my growth. This firm doesn’t just talk about supporting women attorneys; they actively invest in our mentorship and provide clear pathways for advancement.”

"The robust mentorship program here has been invaluable.

I’ve been guided by incredible senior women attorneys who genuinely want to see me succeed, and their insights have accelerated my career trajectory significantly.”

Susan Dana-Kobey

“Most Influential Women” 2021

“Most Influential Women” 2018

"I've found a supportive community here that encourages women to lead, innovate, and succeed.

It’s a wonderful environment to grow professionally.”

Jennifer Delgado

“Most Influential Women” 2022

Susie Ingold

Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.

CHARM: The Wigwam in Litchfield Park

SURPRISE

Discover why so many are making the move to Surprise, AZ! We’re a vibrant, fast-growing community offering big city opportunities with a small-town welcome. Home to over 165,000 residents and counting, Surprise offers a safe, family-friendly environment full of opportunity, entertainment and natural beauty.

With top-tier amenities, mountain views and a strategic location just 35 miles from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, Surprise is easily accessible via Loop 303, US 60 and Bell Road.

Whether you’re looking to relocate, expand your business or simply experience Arizona at its best, Surprise is ready to welcome you!

TRENDSETTERS

BANKING

Question: How will rising interest rates and economic conditions affect business lending and credit availability in 2025?

Answer: The economic landscape in 2025 offers savvy businesses opportunities to leverage changing conditions for growth and stability. Rising interest rates and evolving economic conditions will influence lending practices and credit availability, presenting several avenues for strategic financial management:

• Opportunity for higher returns: Businesses with cash reserves can benefit from higher interest rates on savings accounts and certificates of deposit, potentially earning more on their idle funds.

• Incentive for efficiency: The higher cost of borrowing encourages businesses to optimize operations and improve cash flow management, leading to stronger overall financial health.

• Favorable terms for strong businesses: Companies with solid financials and credit histories may be in a better negotiating position for loans as banks compete for high-quality borrowers.

• Diversification of funding sources: Businesses can explore a mix of financing options, including traditional bank loans, SBA loans and alternative lending platforms, to secure the most advantageous terms in the current market.

Contact: Christina Ciaffone

FirstBank East Valley senior vice president

Christina.Ciaffone@efirstbank.com 602-508-4601

Question: What should you do if you are denied a business loan?

Answer: Being denied a business loan can be disheartening, but it’s not the end of the road. There are several steps you can take to improve your chances of securing financing in the future:

• Understand the reason: Request a detailed explanation from the lender about why your application was denied. This information is crucial for addressing specific issues in future applications.

• Improve your credit score: You can improve your personal and business credit scores by paying bills on time, reducing outstanding debts, and correcting any errors on your credit reports.

• Strengthen your business plan: Revise your business plan to address any weaknesses identified in the loan denial. Include detailed financial projections and a clear strategy for using and repaying the loan.

• Explore alternative funding options: Consider other financing avenues such as business credit cards, equipment financing or alternative lenders.

Contact: Matt Marshall

FirstBank East Valley executive vice president Matt.Marshall@efirstbank.com 602-508-4600

LEADERSHIP PROFILE

EMPOWERING EVERY LEARNER

Robin Sweet helps turn students on the spectrum into success stories at Gateway Academy

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Robin Sweet didn’t set out to be a trailblazer in education for autistic students.

“We adopted a little boy from St. Petersburg, Russia,” Sweet recalls. “As he started developing, we noticed that he didn’t play with other kids. He would create these magnificent LEGO structures, but if somebody knocked it over, he would lose his mind.”

Ultimately, Sweet’s son was diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome, which is now called Level 1 autism spectrum disorder. But before his diagnosis, he bounced from school to school in California before Sweet found a special education school where her son found a home.

“I met the head of the school and it was like we were talking the same talk,” she says. “The power of finding somebody to relate to is amazing because you feel like you’re on an island and it’s only happening to you and it’s a terrible feeling.”

Sweet and her husband bought the school and ran it for six years before her husband took a job in Arizona that required the family to relocate.

“We said, ‘Oh, Scottsdale,’” Sweet recalls. “They’re going to have tons of schools for kids on the spectrum.”

Sweet quickly learned there were very few options available for her son.

“This population is unique because academically, they’re so bright, they’re so gifted,” she says. “At the same time, they’re socially and emotionally a lot younger. There’s this huge dichotomy between this really smart kid that talks to you like an adult, but two seconds later, they’re crossing their arms, stomping their feet, saying, ‘You can’t make me.’”

That’s when Sweet founded Gateway Academy, a private school in Phoenix

for students in grades 6-12 that is now entering its 20th year of changing the lives of children with autism. The school serves about 125 students who are considered “Twice Exceptional,” academically bright with high-functioning autism.

“When the kids do a tour for the first time, they say, ‘I found my tribe,’” Sweet says. “Are they different? Yes, but similar. They find like minds. They find genuine friends. They do things in a safe, supported environment. When you feel safe, you feel heard, you feel supported. You can be the best that you can be.”

And just like the students it serves, Gateway Academy’s approach to education is a little different.

“These are complicated kids,” Sweet says. “So we take their lead because they teach us what they need. We have subject area expert teachers because the kids are so smart in each individual subject area that they

challenge traditional teachers. We also look for teachers who are patient and kind and see this is a passion and a mission.”

The strategy has worked because every Gateway Academy graduate has gone on to college, university, or to a post-secondary specialty program.

“We want our students to be contributing members of society,” Sweet says. “To do that, we must put them in uncomfortable positions and support them in those uncomfortable positions. So we start in eighth grade with a career exploration class. We do a dual enrollment with Scottsdale Community College, so the kids go on campus, take courses, learn how to advocate for themselves, learn how to talk to a professor. We live in a pretty intolerant society, but that process creates a transition that is a little more forgiving when it is time for them to move on to the next chapter.”

CLASS ACT: “The Gateway Way is a totally different way of thinking,” says Robin Sweet, CEO and founder of Gateway Academy. “It’s out-of-the-box thinking because there is no box. That’s the Gateway Way.” (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)

THE

MOST

INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

IN ARIZONA BUSINESS: CLASS OF 2025

Sitting: Elizabeth S. Chatham, Stinson; Stephanie Tribe, Fennemore; Maggie Shearan, Wells Fargo; and Emelda Baca, Arizona Financial Credit Union. Second row: Dr. Toni Stockton, Stockton Dermatology; Chelsea Vickers, Aurora Behavioral Health System; Catherine Harmon, Alerus; Torrie Taj, Child Crisis Arizona; CarolAnn Tutera, SottoPelle and Tutera Health; Henri’ Dawes, Achieve; and Amy Lou Harvath, Meadows Bank. Back row: Judy Ferreira, Arizona Indian Gaming Association; Katherine Beck, Greenberg Traurig; Lisa Lund, Lund Mortgage Team; Dr. Tara Ostrom, Optum - Arizona; and LaDonna Weaver, Northern Trust. (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Being named one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2025 is a testament to exceptional leadership, vision and impact.

Selected from more than 2,200 women under consideration in 2025, the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business are recognized for their significant contributions across various sectors, including business, real estate, technology, healthcare and nonprofits.

“We only allow women to make the list of Most Influential Women once,” says Az Business Publisher Amy Lindsey. “The fact that we are more than a decade into

the Most Influential Women program and still have more than 2,200 women under consideration is a testament to the depth of female leadership we have in Arizona.”

Many people ask how the women being honored in 2025 were selected from the large pool of women under consideration.

“From the more than 2,200 women under consideration in 2025, the editorial board for Az Business used a vigorous vetting process to narrow that list down to 200 women,” Lindsey says. “We then sent that list of women to a panel of 12 judges made up of former Most Influential Women from a variety of industries, who then

selected the women who are being honored in 2025.”

This prestigious, once-in-a-lifetime honor celebrates women who have not only achieved professional excellence but have also made meaningful differences in their communities. Their stories inspire others and shape Arizona’s future. The 2025 honorees will be celebrated at a special awards dinner on August 21, 2025, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix.

With that in mind, what advice does the Class of 2025 have for those women aspiring to be one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business in future years?

Sitting: Fnu Anupama, Deloitte Consulting; Becky Hale, Legacy Traditional Schools; and Sandra Torre, LAVIDGE. Second row: Nancy Padberg, Catholic Education Arizona; Doreen Cott, Town of Queen Creek; Vanessa Kisicki, Salt River Project; and Lynne Adams, Osborn Maledon. Back row: Jennifer Kimmell, TruWest Credit Union; Tamara Bohannon, AllThrive 365 (formerly FSL); Dayna Badhorn, Avnet; and Jaime Burt, Credit Union West. (Photo by Bruce Andersen, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

Dayna Badhorn // regional president, Americas Electronic Components, Avnet: “Always be willing to take on a new challenge and learn something new. You never realize where they may lead you in your career journey.”

Henri’ Dawes // vice president of of DE&I and learning and development, Achieve: “Lead with authenticity and courage. Believe that you belong in the room. Stay curious, mentor generously, and build bridges. Leadership isn’t just a title; it’s about growing through discomfort, showing up fully, and inspiring others. And always give yourself permission to celebrate your accomplishments.”

Judy Ferreira // executive director, Arizona Indian Gaming Association:

“Your professional journey may take you down winding paths and unexpected detours, each one offering new opportunities for growth. Embrace every experience, gather knowledge, build relationships, and equip yourself with the tools you need to navigate what’s ahead. Remember, the journey itself is just as important as the destination — each stop along the way offers valuable lessons. Enjoy every moment, and let it shape your future.”

Amy Lou Harvath // vice president of business development, Meadows Bank: “Build a brand rooted in passion, integrity, and purpose. Seek mentorship — it’s one of the greatest tools for growth in any industry. Embrace discomfort; it’s where transformation happens. Walk into every room knowing you bring value. Lead with confidence, shatter glass ceilings, find your light, and let it shine for others to follow.”

Jennifer M. Kimmell // senior vice president and chief experience officer, TruWest Credit Union: “I cannot overstate the value of mentorship. I advise young women to identify mentors along the way who will push you out of your comfort zone and champion you when you aren’t in the room. Stay nimble and say ‘yes’ to change and new challenges — the greatest career rewards are typically the hardest earned. And, always offer to mentor those following in your footsteps.”

Joyce Mullen // president and CEO, Insight Enterprises: “First, deliver results. You earn the right to talk strategy after execution. Second, surround yourself with people smarter than you — it makes your job easier and raises the bar for everyone. Finally, be loud and proud about your passions. It’s exhausting trying to be someone you’re not, so bring your whole self to work.”

Torrie Taj // CEO, Child Crisis Arizona: “Don’t wait for permission to lead. Surround yourself with people who challenge and uplift you. Be fiercely committed to your mission but flexible in your path. And always — always — take time to reflect, grow, and care for your own well-being. The nonprofit world can be demanding, but your clarity, resilience, and voice are your superpowers. Use them boldly.”

Sandra Torre // co-president and CFO, LAVIDGE: “Listen closely, learn constantly, and stay grounded in who you are. Be authentic and speak up — even when it’s uncomfortable. Lead with integrity and transparency. Never compromise your values. Trust is earned when people know you do what’s right, especially when it’s not the easiest path.”

Nonnie Shivers // office managing shareholder, Ogletree Deakins: “Be radically and unapologetically authentic. Share what makes you memorable and unique to develop meaningful connections with others.  Never respond to questions like, ‘What’s new?’ or ‘How’s it going?’ with a stock answer — add value, levity and connectivity by being the most interesting version of yourself. Rigorously develop and share your personal brand since organizations today hire lawyers, not law firms.”

Most Influential Women in Arizona Business: Class of 2025

Lynne Adams // Osborn Maledon

Fnu Anupama // Deloitte Consulting

Emelda Baca // Arizona Financial Credit Union

Dayna Badhorn // Avnet

Katherine Beck // Greenberg Traurig

Tamara Bohannon // AllThrive 365

Jaime Burt // Credit Union West

Gaby Cardenas // The Colibri Collective

Elizabeth S. Chatham // Stinson

Doreen Cott // Town of Queen Creek

Henri’ Dawes // Achieve

Judy Ferreira // Arizona Indian Gaming Association

Rebecca Hale // Legacy Traditional Schools and Vertex Education

Catherine Harmon // Alerus

Amy Lou Harvath // Meadows Bank

Jennifer Kimmell // TruWest Credit Union

Vanessa Kisicki // Salt River Project

Lisa Lund // Lund Mortgage Team

Joyce Mullen // Insight Enterprises

Alicia Nunez // Chicanos por la Causa

Dr. Tara Ostrom, MD // Optum

Nancy Padberg // Catholic Education Arizona

Olga Phillips // Phillips Law Group Foundation

Maggie Shearan // Wells Fargo

Dr. Sarah Shell // Shell Medical

Nonnie Shivers // Ogletree Deakins

Dr. Toni Stockton, MD // Stockton Dermatology

Torrie Taj // Child Crisis Arizona

Sandra Torre // LAVIDGE

Stephanie Tribe // Fennemore

CarolAnn Tutera // SottoPelle and Tutera Medical

Chelsea Vickers // Aurora Behavioral Health System

LaDonna Weaver // Northern Trust

Joy Zilar // City of Hope

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

EMELDA BACA

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF CONSUMER LENDING // ARIZONA FINANCIAL CREDIT UNION

Background: Baca is the senior vice president of consumer lending at Arizona Financial Credit Union, which serves over 175,000 members across Arizona. With more than 17 years at the credit union, including leadership roles as director of remote services and director of consumer lending, Baca is responsible for the development and performance of consumer loan products and works together with her team to enhance the loan experience for credit union members and the communities it serves. As a champion of innovation, inclusivity and leadership development, Baca is committed to providing members with access to lending products across the credit spectrum, implementing forward-thinking services such as buy now pay later options, artificial intelligence underwriting and implementing products to serve the underserved.

Source of pride: “The credit union industry is about people helping people, and that is my job every day — finding ways to help the community gain access to financial services that support their life’s journey. I am most proud of being able to implement artificial intelligence and the utilization of alternative data within our lending processes to be able to lend more inclusively across all types of credit. By doing so we create more avenues for our members to gain access to credit and financial services.”

Professional advice: “Own your voice, trust that your ideas and perspective are valued. Build a strong support system in mentors — peers who will offer guidance, challenge you to grow and celebrate your success. Lift others up. Leadership is not just about personal growth, it’s about creating opportunities and empowering others to thrive. And always be learning, stay curious and seek out new knowledge.”

Surprising fact: “I’m a big fan of old movies. ‘An Affair to Remember,’ ‘Bringing Up Baby,’ ‘Breakfast at Tiffany’s’ and ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ are just a few of my favorites. I have gotten all three of my kids to be fans as well! We enjoy movie nights every weekend.”

LEARN MORE: ARIZONAFINANCIAL.ORG

DAYNA BADHORN

REGIONAL PRESIDENT, AMERICAS ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS // AVNET

Background: Badhorn is the regional president of Americas electronic components organization at Avnet. In this role, she leads all activities tied to Avnet’s electronics components business in the Americas where she oversees operations and sales teams supporting business in the region. Badhorn is also responsible for setting the strategy to provide differentiated value to our global electronics services (EMS) and original equipment manufacturers (OEM) customers.

Source of pride: “The most important thing to me is building a team that collaborates to perform well, so I’m very proud of the fact that we’ve maintained high employee engagement scores throughout my tenure as president, even in very challenging markets.”

Professional advice: “Always be willing to take on a new challenge and learn something new. You never realize where they may lead you in your career journey.”

Surprising fact: “I had the opportunity to dance in the Super Bowl half time show with Diana Ross when it came to Phoenix. I competed in dance for 12 years, and when I saw the Super Bowl needed Half Time dancers I tried out and made the cut.”

SUCCESS,

KATHERINE BECK

SHAREHOLDER // GREENBERG TRAURIG

Background: Beck concentrates her practice on corporate and securities law, mergers and acquisitions, and private equity investments. Beck has deep experience in capital markets transactions, including public and private offerings of equity and debt securities. She regularly advises public companies on mergers and acquisitions as well as on compliance with SEC reporting requirements, stock exchange listing rules and general corporate matters.

Source of pride: “I’m proud to have remained in law despite its demands. Balancing long hours and family life can be challenging, but growth came with it. Becoming a shareholder was a milestone, and mentoring associates has been deeply rewarding. Seeing their growth reminds me why I chose this path.”

Professional advice: “Make it known what you want and go for it.

As a woman in law, it’s easy to be redirected, but you can still have what you want. With clarity and resilience, you can lead, raise a family and define success on your own terms — without waiting for permission.”

Surprising fact: “I hold a first-degree recommended black belt in Taekwondo.”

LEARN MORE: GTLAW.COM

Patrick Joyce Arizona Market President

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

FNU ANUPAMA

SENIOR MANAGER // DELOITTE CONSULTING

Background: Anupama specializes in artificial intelligence, data engineering and enterprise cloud transformation. With close to 19 years of experience, she leads strategic initiatives across healthcare and financial services, delivering scalable, highimpact solutions that drive operational efficiency, digital maturity and long-term business value.

Source of pride: “Delivering a state-wide infectious disease analytics platform for Texas Health and Human Services stands out. It modernized public health data infrastructure, enabled data governance and accelerated real-time decision-making for epidemiologists. Leading this initiative underscored the profound societal impact technology can have when aligned with purpose and execution excellence.”

Surprising fact: “I am a trained Veena player and singer.”

TONI C. STOCKTON, MD, FAAD

FOUNDER, CEO AND MEDICAL DIRECTOR // STOCKTON DERMATOLOGY

Background: Dr. Stockton is the founder of Stockton Dermatology and A Skin Studio by Stockton Dermatology in Phoenix. She has expertise in dermatology, dermatological surgery and cosmetic dermatology.

Source of pride: “I am most proud of being able to have established and provide a successful dermatology private practice that that still allows me to put my patients’ interests first and provide the quality care that I would like my family members to receive … There have been many changes are challenges in medicine, but my practice has been able to survive through these 25 years.”

LYNNE C. ADAMS

PARTNER // OSBORN MALEDON

Background: Adams is a partner at Osborn Maledon, where she leads the firm’s education law practice and advises Arizona schools on compliance, litigation and governance.

Surprising fact: “I won on ‘The Price is Right!’ I went to the show to celebrate a milestone birthday and I was chosen as a contestant, no doubt because of the T-shirts my husband designed for me and my friend, which said ‘Women Lawyers for Drew’ on the front and ‘Pick Us Or We’ll Sue’ on the back. I won the showcase showdown, which included a two-week trip to Italy and Greece. It was an amazing experience and an amazing trip.”

JAIME BURT

VICE PRESIDENT, ADMINISTRATION // CREDIT UNION WEST

Background: Burt is recognized for her distinguished leadership and enduring contributions. With two decades of dedicated service, she has championed

Stephanie’s recognition reflects her unwavering commitment to helping families and business owners protect what they’ve built and plan for what’s next. Fennemore is proud to celebrate her leadership, insight, and lasting impact. Congratulations to Stephanie Tribe.

FENNEMORELAW.COM

GABY CARDENAS

FOUNDER AND CEO // THE COLIBRI COLLECTIVE

Background: Cardenas is the founder of The Colibri Collective, a Latina-led and certified Women-Owned full-service marketing and advertising agency dedicated to creating positive change through innovative strategies and meaningful partnerships.

Source of pride: “This year, I had the honor of launching The Colibri Foundation. This moment symbolizes our evolution from a thriving business to a purpose-driven one, empowering communities through education, the arts and advocacy. It reflects our mission to lead with impact while investing in long-term and generational change.”

Professional advice: “Lead with authenticity and purpose. Don’t wait for permission, take off and create your own path. Invest in your growth, find mentors and use your voice. Your lived experience is your superpower and when you stay rooted in it, you’ll open doors not just for yourself, but for others, too.”

Surprising fact: “I love collecting items that inspire me. As a kid, I loved Barbies and classic cars — thanks to my dad, who showed me the value of well-made vehicles. Now, I invest in vintage cars, collectible Barbies and art, all of which reflect my passion for elegance and invigorate my life with beauty.”

LEARN MORE: THECOLIBRICOLLECTIVE.COM

ELIZABETH CHATHAM

PARTNER // Stinson LLP

Background: Having immigrated from India, Chatham’s experience drives her passion for advocating clients’ best interests through tailored corporate immigration and compliance programs. With over two decades of experience, she serves Fortune 500 companies, startups, nonprofits, universities and individuals. Her leadership roles have made her a trailblazer in Arizona’s legal community and beyond.

Source of pride: “The practice of law can be a grind — especially in immigration, where the stakes are high and the systems are complex. My favorite days in the office are when a new client hires me or when we get word a case has been approved. It often takes months, or even years, of hard work in navigating multiple government agencies while making a few pivots along the way to see a case come to conclusion. I have the same sense of accomplishment whether I am working on a pro bono case to help an orphaned child or working with an international client to quickly and efficiently move key talent to the U.S.”

LEARN MORE: STINSON.COM

HENRI’ DAWES

VICE PRESIDENT OF DE&I AND LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT // ACHIEVE

Background: With more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning aviation, financial services and customer operations, Dawes is a bold strategist and people-first leader. She designs inclusive programs that drive performance, elevate talent and build cultures where learning, equity and belonging support business growth.

Source of pride: “I’m most proud of helping aspiring leaders — especially women, minorities and underrepresented groups — discover their strengths and step into roles they once thought were outside their reach. When people recognize their potential and rise with confidence, it creates a lasting impact for them, their teams and the communities they serve.”

Surprising fact: “I began my career working overnight shifts cleaning airplanes. It wasn’t glamorous, but it taught me to learn business from the ground up, be unafraid to do any job, and that everyone deserves to be seen and valued for their contributions. I learned that leadership starts with respect and humility.”

LEARN MORE: ACHIEVE.COM

REBECCA HALE

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND FOUNDER // LEGACY TRADITIONAL SCHOOLS | VERTEX EDUCATION

Background: Hale is the founder of Legacy Traditional Schools and Vertex Education, serving over 250,000 students across Arizona, Texas, Nevada and beyond. Through Vertex, she empowers and supports school leaders across the country by taking on operational responsibilities — allowing them to focus on what they do best: educating kids. Her passion for education was sparked by her own children and continues to grow. Hale helped build Legacy from the ground up — doing everything from enrolling students to scrubbing bathrooms. She now serves on the board as a strategic leader and remains deeply involved in shaping the

Source of pride: “Founding Legacy Traditional Schools and Vertex Education while raising 11 kids is my proudest achievement, (I am not finished yet — I still have 5-year-old twins at home and our business and schools are always improving). Seeing hundreds of thousands of students thrive in a system we built from scratch — one rooted in structure, love and high expectations — is more meaningful than any award. Helping families access truly great education has been a lifelong mission.”

Professional advice: “Never give up. Don’t let anyone tell you you’re not smart enough or good enough — just keep going with grit and hard work. Surround yourself with wise, talented people, listen to them and then trust your gut. I didn’t do it alone — my husband was my greatest partner and I give credit to God.”

Surprising fact: “I’ve traveled to six continents and 54 countries — and I love learning about people and cultures. I’m a mom of 11 and a grandma of four. Whether I’m meeting new people across the globe or cheering on my own kids, people and relationships are truly my passion.”

LEARN MORE: LEGACYTRADITIONAL.ORG

TO END CANCER HOPE IS HERE

DOREEN COTT

DIRECTOR OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT // TOWN OF QUEEN CREEK

Background: Cott actively works to diversify and strengthen Queen Creek’s economic base through business attraction, a focus on small business development, support for entrepreneurs in the community and a robust tourism program.

Source of pride: “I was given a unique opportunity as the Town of Queen Creek’s first economic development director to develop and implement a program that has transitioned a small town into the thriving community it is today. I have had an integral role in bringing many ‘firsts’ to the town, and most recently have had the honor to work with LG Energy Solution on bringing the largest single investment for a stand-alone battery manufacturing facility in North America to Queen Creek.”

TAMARA BOHANNON

PRESIDENT AND CEO // ALLTHRIVE 365 (FORMERLY FSL)

Background: Bohannon is the first woman to lead AllThrive 365 and has more than 30 years of social benefit leadership experience. Since 2022, she has advanced solutions in health, housing, hunger and caregiving and serves on key statewide councils. She is a 2024 Virginia G. Piper Fellow and a 2025 Vistage Impact Award winner for Arizona.

Source of pride: “After 50 years, we successfully launched a rebrand from Foundation for Senior Living to AllThrive 365. This is an evolution, not a departure, from our core purpose. Since 1974, we’ve been committed to empowering Arizonans to age with confidence. That mission remains the same, but the name now better reflects the breadth of our work and the communities we support.”

LADONNA WEAVER

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT // NORTHERN TRUST

Background: With a remarkable 29-year career at Northern Trust, Weaver serves as senior vice president, project manager and Tempe strategic initiative manager. Since stepping into her current role in May 2023, Weaver has made significant strides not only within the organization, but also in the broader Tempe community. Her work has been instrumental in strengthening the Northern Trust brand and shaping a culture of collaboration and inclusion. Over the past two years, Weaver has played a key role in fostering employee engagement and community outreach. She helps oversee 11 employee-led business resource councils, working closely with these groups to champion diversity and empower voices across all levels of the organization.

CATHERINE HARMON

COMMERCIAL BANKING TEAM LEAD // ALERUS

Background: Harmon is a seasoned commercial banker and currently leads Alerus’ commercial banking team in Arizona. She builds relationships with business owners and entrepreneurs, contributing 25 years of commercial and industrial lending, commercial real estate and credit analysis expertise to help them achieve long-term financial success.

Source of pride: “My unique perspective as an immigrant, combined with my financial acumen, has empowered me to excel, overcome obstacles and make significant contributions to high-stake deals in a competitive industry. Determination, intelligence and professionalism transcend borders. I hope my career inspires others to challenge norms and achieve success through perseverance and passion.”

Professional advice: “When it comes to building relationships, whether personal or professional, be true to yourself. Authenticity pays dividends … just like compound interest.”

Surprising fact: “One of my favorite hobbies is target shooting. I learned to shoot in high school during military training class in Taiwan. My first experience with a firearm was with an M-16 rifle in preparation for a potential armed attack from China.”

LEARN MORE: ALERUS.COM

AMY LOU HARVATH

VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT // MEADOWS BANK

Source of pride: “Becoming a Fiesta Bowl Yellow Jacket Committee member was a transformative milestone. It didn’t just challenge me — it amplified the strengths I’d spent years building. I saw how my leadership, drive and connections could create lasting impact. It deepened my purpose, sharpened my voice and redefined how I serve my community.”

Professional advice: “Build a brand rooted in passion, integrity, and purpose. Seek mentorship — it’s one of the greatest tools for growth in any industry. Embrace discomfort; it’s where transformation happens. Walk into every room knowing you bring value. Lead with confidence, shatter glass ceilings, find your light and let it shine for others to follow.”

Surprising fact: “I’m a single mother of three, and they are the heartbeat behind my ambition. Juggling motherhood and a demanding career taught me resilience, grit and grace. Every obstacle fueled my purpose. My children are my why — and living proof that you can build a legacy and raise one at the same time.”

LEARN MORE: MEADOWSBANK.BANK

VANESSA KISICKI

ASSOCIATE GENERAL MANAGER AND CHIEF CUSTOMER EXECUTIVE // SALT RIVER PROJECT

Background: Kisicki leads SRP’s award-winning customer operations, overseeing every interaction from electricity delivery to managing 3.5 million calls annually. With 23 years in the energy industry, her commitment to tackling the tough questions drives innovation, operational excellence and the cultivation of future leaders.

Source of pride: “I get excited about transforming vision into reality. I have a passion for bringing ideas to fruition — in reimagining and executing strategies that realize organizational goals. My proudest accomplishment to date is championing the strategy to define SRP’s electric grid of the future.”

Professional advice: “Embrace curiosity! Curiosity reveals your passions and guides you. Focus on what excites you, and you’ll uncover opportunities to showcase your talents. Take initiative, contribute meaningfully and drive progress.”

Surprising fact: “Growing up in an artistic family, my siblings and I regularly staged elaborate musicals in our backyard, entertaining our parents and dinner guests with our top-notch performances. Though my musical theater days are far behind me, I still love to perform as a classically trained singer.”

LEARN MORE: SRPNET.COM

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

JENNIFER M. KIMMELL

SENIOR

VICE PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER // TRUWEST CREDIT UNION

Background: Kimmell began her credit union career over 25 years ago, with the last 20 years at TruWest, where she has held roles in branch operations, member services, strategy and marketing.

Professional advice: “I cannot overstate the value of mentorship. I advise young women to identify mentors along the way who will push you out of your comfort zone and champion you when you aren’t in the room. Stay nimble and say ‘yes’ to change and new challenges. The greatest career rewards are typically the hardest earned. And, always offer to mentor those following in your footsteps.”

LISA LUND

PRESIDENT // LUND MORTGAGE TEAM

Background: Lund is a leading expert in the mortgage industry. With over 20 years experience in the broker world, Lund has held nearly every position, from junior processor to president, at her own company, Lund Mortgage Team. Located in Glendale, Lund and her team close more than 50 loans a month with a loan volume of $13 million per month on average. Lund enjoys getting involved in the industry and is a member of AZAMP, NAMB, AIME and AIME’s Women’s Affinity Group. Lund also enjoys mentoring and supporting up-andcoming mortgage brokers.

JUDY CHAVARRIAFERREIRA

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR // ARIZONA INDIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION

Background: Chavarria-Ferreira serves as the executive director of the Arizona Indian Gaming Association (AIGA), a role she has had since 2022. As a member of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, Chavarria-Ferreira resides on the 1.8 million-acre San Carlos Apache Reservation in East Central Arizona.

Source of pride: “Working with Tribal Nations is both a profound honor and a constant source of inspiration. The wisdom I’ve gained through my interactions with countless Tribal leaders has deepened my understanding of their rich traditions and the innovative solutions that will empower their nations to flourish.”

TARA OSTROM, MD

SENIOR MEDICAL DIRECTOR // Optum Arizona

Background: With more than 20 years in internal medicine, Dr. Ostrom leads 34 clinics statewide for Optum Arizona, driving significant improvements in patient outcomes and clinical efficiencies. Board-certified in internal medicine since 1999, Dr. Ostrom attended Arizona State University, graduating summa cum laude and earning degrees in chemistry and psychology.

Source of pride: “The professional accomplishment I’m most proud of is leading the clinician adoption of a new electronic medical record (Epic) across 34 clinics. This involved mapping efficiencies, creating workflows, training clinicians and ensuring proficiency for clinicians to provide high-quality, value-based care from the first week of adoption. This initiative supported clinician well-being and enhanced patient care.”

Surprising fact: “A little-known fact about me is that I love escape rooms and seek them out during my travels. They combine adventure, problem-solving and teamwork, making each experience thrilling. The best ones have captivating stories that enhance immersion and enjoyment, creating memorable and exciting challenges.”

LEARN MORE: OPTUM.COM

Blazing new trails, together

As proud sponsors of Women of Influence 2025, Optum –Arizona supports our fellow innovators, leaders, and influencers with our mission to positively impact the health of Arizonans.

optum.com/az

Optum is a registered trademark of Optum, Inc. in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. All other brand or product names are the property of their respective owners. Because we are continuously improving our products and services, Optum reserves the right to change specifications without prior notice. Optum is an equal opportunity employer. © 2025 Optum, Inc. All rights reserved.

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

NANCY PADBERG

PRESIDENT AND CEO // CATHOLIC EDUCATION ARIZONA

Background: Padberg built her career in media, marketing and education industries in Santa Monica and San Francisco. She has a proven track record of driving growth, innovation and impact with a 60% increase in revenue from $16.8 to $25.8 million in four years. With 26 years of experience in leadership, sales, marketing and education, Padberg is passionate about creating a healthy culture built on trust, respect and value for one another. She also serves on the boards for Catholic Charities and GCU and is a Forbes contributor on leadership. Padberg earned her MBA at Pepperdine University, Graziadio School of Business, served as vice president of The Phelps Group marketing firm and led the education division at Hearst media.

Source of pride: “Becoming president and CEO of Catholic Education Arizona and applying my MBA education from Pepperdine University, digital marketing expertise and healthy culture values for a 60% growth in revenue and scholarship awards.”

Professional advice: “Earn your MBA from an accredited university and learn about leadership, strategy, finance, marketing, organizational behavior and operations.”

Surprising fact: “I contribute articles to Forbes on leadership and culture, so this Fall I am publishing a leadership book called ‘How to Build a Healthy Culture with Trust, Respect and Avocados.’”

LEARN MORE: CATHOLICEDUCATIONARIZONA.ORG

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

OLGA PHILLIPS

FOUNDER // PHILLIPS LAW GROUP FOUNDATION

Background: Phillips is the founder of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Phillips Law Foundation. She launched the foundation in 2022 to empower those in need through compassion, action and justice. With a dedicated team of law professionals, clients and supporters, PLF provides safety and hope for those who are disadvantaged. At the heart of the foundation’s work lies a profound belief in the inherent worth of every woman. The foundation strives to empower them to break free from barriers and live lives filled with dignity and

JOYCE MULLEN

PRESIDENT AND CEO // INSIGHT ENTERPRISES

Background: Mullen is president and CEO of Insight, a Fortune 500 solutions integrator with over 14,000 teammates worldwide. With more than 30 years of technology leadership experience, Mullen drives transformation by unlocking the power of people and technology to accelerate business outcomes for clients across 19 countries.

Source of pride: “Leading Insight’s transformation into the industry’s leading solutions integrator gives me tremendous pride.”

Surprising fact: “I once climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, where I saw how porters — quietly shouldering every ounce of gear — make the summit possible. It taught me that when you align your passion with teammates who lift you higher, even the highest peaks feel within reach. Celebrate those who carry you up. They’re your secret to success.”

ALICIA NUÑEZ

PRESIDENT AND CEO // CHICANOS

POR LA CAUSA

Background: Nuñez leads CPLC, a community development organization empowering nearly 1,000,000 lives across the country through health and human services, housing, education, economic development and advocacy programs. She has more than 23 years of financial and operational management experience.

Source of pride: “There’s a hallway in the CPLC main office filled with portraits of past presidents and I would always say, ‘one day, there’s going to be a woman in that hallway.’ I became CPLC’s first Latina president and CEO in the organizations’ history. I still pass by that hallway every day, and I am filled with so much pride when I remember what this represents.”

MAGGIE SHEARAN

MORTGAGE RETAIL SALES SENIOR MANAGER // WELLS FARGO

Background: Shearan is a mortgage retail sales senior manager for the Arizona Division of Wells Fargo Home Lending, one of the nation’s largest bank home mortgage originators. A leader with 27 years of experience, she is responsible for leading a distributed sales team which originates residential mortgage loans in Arizona.

Source of pride: “Being a working mom for 22 years. Through balance and hard work, it’s possible to achieve career growth while keeping family top priority every day.”

Professional advice: “Get comfortable being uncomfortable and take every opportunity possible to speak in front of people! It’s so much easier just to be part of the audience but the true growth happens when you challenge yourself.”

Surprising fact: “I’m terrified of sharks.”

NONNIE SHIVERS

OFFICE MANAGING SHAREHOLDER // OGLETREE DEAKINS

Source of pride: Shivers is a nationally recognized thought leader in employment law. Shivers partners with Fortune 10 to small locally owned businesses to proactively create and sustain legally compliant workplaces across all 50 states through training solutions, c-suite investigations and super subject matter expertise on cutting edge employment topics, such as creating lawful inclusion programs in an increasingly complex regulatory environment.

Setting the STANDARD in CRE Banking

TORRIE TAJ

CEO // CHILD CRISIS ARIZONA

Background: Taj is a passionate and dedicated professional with more than 33 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and philanthropy. Known as a change agent, Taj is a heartfelt leader who loves to create big visions for the future while embracing a theory of abundance. Her energy is contagious and attracts the best talent of individuals who want to make a difference today and for the next generation.

Source of pride: “Leading Child Crisis Arizona through a transformational period of growth — culminating in the completion of our $25 million Center for Child & Family Wellness — is something I hold with immense pride. This wasn’t just about brick and mortar. It was about reimagining how we care for vulnerable children and families in Arizona, integrating holistic health, traumainformed services and culturally responsive care under one roof.

Watching our vision become reality — and seeing the lives being changed inside those walls every day — is deeply fulfilling.”

Congratulations to Melissa Carrasco on being named by AZRE magazine as one of the Most Influential Women in Commercial Real Estate for 2025! We’re proud to have CRE banking experts like her leading the way. Visit bell.bank/CRE to learn how we can support your commercial real estate financing needs.

LEARN MORE: CHILDCRISISAZ.ORG

STEPHANIE TRIBE

DIRECTOR // Fennemore

Background: Tribe leads Fennemore’s regional trusts and estates practice, advising individuals and families on estate planning, taxation and probate. A trusted advisor across generations, she works with clients to implement estate plans and wealth transfer strategies. A recognized authority in her field, Tribe also balances a busy family life while speaking nationally to legal professionals. Advice to young women: “Find a mentor who will invest in your development — someone who will give you real work, hands-on opportunities, direct feedback and the chance to interact with clients. Those experiences are invaluable for building confidence, honing your skills, shaping your practice and advancing your career.”

Surprising fact: “I can drive a combine. I grew up on a farm raising corn, wheat and potatoes — and my dad still farms today. Fun fact: my law school entrance essay was all about thrashing wheat. Farming taught me hard work, resilience and a few surprising life skills.”

LEARN MORE: FENNEMORELAW.COM

CAROLANN TUTERA

CO-FOUNDER AND CEO // SOTTOPELLE AND TUTERA MEDICAL

Background: Tutera is the first woman entrepreneur who brought bioidentical hormone pellet therapy to the forefront, setting the gold standard for pellet practices across America. Widely recognized as the industry leader and solo female trailblazer in a male-dominated field, she remains passionately committed to wellness and helping people age gracefully.

Source of pride: “My greatest accomplishment is hearing from patients every day about how we have helped improve their health and quality of life.”

Advice to young women: “Believe in yourself and be willing to take risks. Allow your own ideas to shine and take you where you want to go. Persist with courage, determination and tenacity, and it will become a reality. Don’t be afraid to stand out and glow.”

Surprising fact: “I’m hosting podcasts about the role of hormones in brain health and focusing on women’s wellness and selfempowerment. I’m determined to eradicate the myths around aging and show how we can thrive at any age.”

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

CHELSEA VICKERS

CEO // AURORA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SYSTEM

Background: Vickers was promoted to CEO of both Aurora Arizona hospitals in January 2024 and brings extensive experience in inpatient psychiatric care, leading program development, strengthening clinical teams and driving quality outcomes across diverse patient populations.

Source of pride: “Earning the role of CEO at Aurora is my proudest accomplishment. Leading an organization dedicated to saving lives and improving mental health for thousands each year is not only an honor — it’s the most meaningful achievement I could imagine.”

Surprising fact: “I once found myself teaching kindergarten and fell in love with helping others grow. Watching little ones learn sparked my passion for development — something I now carry into nurturing adults in every stage of their professional journey.”

DR. SARAH SHELL

FOUNDER // SHELL MEDICAL HORMONE HEALTH & WELLNESS

Background: Dr. Shell is a licensed Naturopathic Medical Doctor and integrative primary care physician.

Surprising fact: “Most people are surprised to learn that in addition to being a fulltime primary care physician, a clinic owner and mother to three young kids, I’m also a professional bareknuckle boxer for BKFC and ranked No. 2 in the world. My dream isn’t just to win a title — it’s to use that spotlight to promote real solutions to chronic disease and health disparities. I believe that when people see a physician winning world titles and still making time to advocate for patient health, it challenges the status quo and invites real change. That’s my mission.”

SANDRA TORRE

CO-PRESIDENT AND CFO // LAVIDGE

Background: Torre is the co-president and CFO at LAVIDGE, a private, employeeowned advertising, digital and public relations agency based in Phoenix.

Source of pride: “Helping lead LAVIDGE through its transition to 100% employee ownership — while launching our IMPACT employee giving program — has been the most fulfilling part of my career. Building a company that’s financially successful and deeply connected to community values has been incredibly rewarding and, I hope, leaves something meaningful behind for the people who come after me.”

Surprising fact: “I was a competitive roller skater as a kid. It sounds silly now, but roller skating was big back then. Looking back, it makes me laugh, but at the time, it felt like the Olympics.”

MOST INFLUENTIAL WOMEN

JOY ZILAR VICE PRESIDENT NEW PATIENT INTAKE OPERATIONS // City of Hope

Background: With 12 years of dedication to the organization, Zilar leads teams committed to ensuring a seamless and supportive experience for City of Hope’s new patients. Zilar’s team provides intake nurse navigation, new patient scheduling and record procurement services — all designed to ease the burden on patients and accelerate their path to receiving compassionate care. City of Hope’s mission is to remove obstacles so patients can focus on what matters most: their health and healing.

Source of pride: “I am deeply committed to supporting cancer patients, driven by a deep empathy for their journey. My priority is to provide the best possible experience while ensuring our patients receive the timely care they deserve. I will do whatever it takes to get patients in front of a physician as quickly as possible because, when facing cancer, waiting even a day feels too long. Speed to care is critical, and every interaction is an opportunity to offer comfort, compassion and reassurance to those who need it most.”

Professional advice: “The healthcare field requires dedication, resilience and continuous learning. Stay committed to the values that drive you and embrace every opportunity to grow. There may be challenges along the way, but your passion and perseverance will make a difference — not only in your career but in the lives of those you serve. Never stop believing in your ability to create positive change!”

Surprising fact: “I have never been much of a sports fan, but recently, I have started enjoying baseball and have officially become a Diamondbacks supporter — much to my family’s surprise. Now that my husband and I are empty nesters, I have also embraced and enjoy the sourdough bread-making trend as a new hobby. However, I quickly realized that eating it nonstop is not sustainable for my waistline — so I happily give most of it away!”

LEARN MORE: CITYOFHOPE.ORG/PHOENIX

WOMEN OF THE C-SUITE

Some of the most innovative business leaders in Arizona share lessons to put you on the path to greater success

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Women business leaders offer invaluable lessons in resilience, collaboration, innovation and empathy. Their leadership styles often emphasize inclusivity, strategic thinking and emotional intelligence — qualities that drive sustainable success. By observing how they navigate challenges, build strong teams and create supportive workplace cultures, we

gain insights into more effective and balanced leadership. Their diverse perspectives also challenge outdated norms and inspire the next generation to lead with authenticity, adaptability and purpose in today’s rapidly evolving business world.

Here is some professional advice from some of the most innovative business leaders in Arizona.

CHRISTINA S. BURROUGHS, principal, financial advisor, CAPTRUST: “A leader’s impact ripples out. The old adage, ‘what got you here won’t get you there’ is true at every stage. I have to stay curious and grounded, growing and adapting along the way. And I rely on trustworthy friends and advisors to both encourage and be honest with me.”

VICTORIA COLEY, CEO, Banner|Aetna: “I’ve advanced in my career by emulating the leaders I admire, and my leadership has been shaped by the need to operate in an honest and trusting space. I strive to create a similarly supportive and open environment for my team where they can grow through trial and error.”

AMY L. HYSELL, president and CEO, Arizona Financial Credit Union: “Be an authentic and servant leader. I used to lead from topdown focusing solely on business. Through coaching, I transformed into a servant leader. I let my care and fun shine through and learned I don’t need all the answers but the right questions, allowing my team to produce exponential results.”

VICTORIA COLEY

JOAN KOERBER-WALKER, president and CEO, Arizona BioIndustry Association (AZBio): “Don’t panic. Take a deep breath and figure it out. Times of disruption are uncomfortable yet challenges can lead to opportunities. If something ‘blows up,’ take a step back, let the dust settle, then get to work fixing what you can. If you can’t fix it, find a better solution.”

BELINDA ROSTHENHAUSLER, senior vice president, commercial lending, CDC Small Business Finance: “I learned to listen first. Every client is unique. The better I listen and understand, the better I can analyze whether they can get the funding they need. I can guide them through SBA and alternative loan products, give them advice on potential hurdles or connect them with other options.”

COREY SABA-BASHA, commercial banking leader and executive director, Wells Fargo: “Active listening and understanding different perspectives are essential leadership skills. It helps me provide clear feedback, spark innovation and enhance decision making. When I communicate effectively, I learn other’s experiences, gain valuable insights, refine strategies and address real needs. This approach fosters collaboration and ultimately leads to more effective leadership and a successful team.”

RACHEL M. SASS, vice president, relationship advisor, The Northern Trust Company: “An important leadership lesson I’ve learned is the power of active listening. Truly hearing others builds trust, fosters collaboration and uncovers deeper insights. Embracing this has shaped my career by strengthening relationships, improving decision-making, and creating a more inclusive, empowered team environment where people feel valued and motivated to excel.”

JOAN KOERBER-WALKER

COREY SABA-BASHA

PAM KEHALY

PRESIDENT AND CEO // Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (AZ Blue)

Background: Kehaly is the dynamic CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona, known for her big heart and even bigger job of inspiring health and making it easy. With a career dedicated to health, Kehaly leads with compassion and is known for making bold moves to support Arizona. Her smart-minded leadership effectively balances the needs of today, while staying focused on ways to deliver more health for less money. And with AZ Blue’s Prosano Health Advanced Primary Care Clinics, she is just getting started.

Challenges ahead: “Complexity and affordability are the biggest challenges. With a mission to inspire health and make it easy, we are introducing health solutions that empower people with information so they can get the care they need. At the end of the day, we need to deliver more health for less money.”

Leadership lesson: “I’ve come to believe that identifying people with leadership qualities early, and purposefully supporting their development, makes a positive difference for their career and advances the business. Time spent creating the right environment uplifts people to their highest potential and my best days include uplifting teams and celebrating accomplishments.”

Surprising fact: “I love representing AZ Blue and supporting our amazing health partners across Arizona! What you don’t know, is after a fantastic event that runs late into the evening, you might just find me treating myself to a delicious In-N-Out burger in the drive-thru.”

KIM BROWN

CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER // Nox Group

Background: Brown drives strategic people operation initiatives that align with business goals and foster a culture of well-being and performance. With a strong background in HR leadership, Brown champions innovative programs that prioritize mental health, employee engagement and organizational resilience. Her forwardthinking approach to talent development and workplace culture is driving the company’s mission to humanize construction.

Leadership style: “My leadership style is grounded in trust, empowerment and strategic delegation. I make a point to hire individuals whose strengths fill my own gaps, individuals who bring expertise and perspective I may not have. I then give them the space and autonomy to lead. I believe in hiring smart, capable individuals, clearly communicating expectations and then stepping back to let them make bold, informed decisions. This not only drives innovation but also instills a sense of ownership within the team. From there, I think it’s important to lead with grace. I hold my team accountable, but I don’t expect perfection. When mistakes happen, I see them as valuable learning moments, offering support and guidance. I believe people do their best work when they feel supported and trusted and that they have someone in their corner.”

Source of pride: “One of my proudest professional achievements is contributing to Nox Group’s growth from 500 to nearly 2,000 employees within two years. This rapid expansion presented both exciting opportunities and significant challenges, demanding strategic vision and hands-on leadership to scale our people operations effectively. When I started, the HR team consisted of only three people. Today, it’s a dynamic People Operations team of 40 professionals committed to supporting our growth and advancing our mission to humanize construction.”

Learn more: noxgroup.us

CHRISTINE NOWACZYK

SENIOR PRIVATE WEALTH ADVISOR // U.S. Bank Private Wealth Management

Background: Nowaczyk is a senior vice president and senior private wealth advisor for U.S. Bank, with a career spanning 30 years in the financial services industry. She is a community champion, respected for convening leaders and mentoring women. Her multifaceted background includes leading banking teams and advising complex families, women executives, private and public companies, Native American communities, municipalities and nonprofits. Two Arizona governors appointed her to the state’s P-20 education council, and she was Global Board Chair of ACG, the long-standing M&A association in 60 markets. Nowaczyk chairs the Southwest Human Development board, Arizona’s largest agency for early childhood programs.

Challenges ahead: “Talent and technology. Recruiting and retaining talent in our evolving industry requires maintaining an attractive workplace culture, having supportive leadership, ongoing training, and opportunities for professional growth. Technology digitization around serving clients, protecting data and improving efficiencies are a key focus.”

Leadership lesson: “Often, people earn leadership roles because they are successful individual contributors. My early leadership style was quickly adapted to foster empathy, focus on the development of my colleagues and help them grow into their full potential. Success as a leader means championing others and being an exporter of extraordinary talent.”

Surprising fact: “I was a Division I college athlete in the Big 10.”

WOMEN IN LAW

Female lawyers lead Arizona’s legal industry with influence and innovation and blaze a trail for future generations

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Once a rarity in boardrooms and courtrooms, women lawyers in Arizona are now driving change, leading firms and reshaping the legal landscape with grit and brilliance.

“As a young lawyer, I was told that a person’s reputation is their most valuable asset,” says Andrea Lovell, office managing shareholder at Littler and one of Az Business magazine’s Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2020. “I have taken that to heart and do my best to demonstrate integrity every day. I believe this has earned me the trust of my clients, colleagues and even opponents.”

Women lawyers have become a formidable force in Arizona’s legal

industry, ascending to leadership roles in major law firms, judiciary positions and bar associations. Trailblazers like Lorna Lockwood, the first woman to serve as Chief Justice of the Arizona Supreme Court, paved the way for future generations. Today, organizations such as the Arizona Women Lawyers Association (AWLA) continue to support and advocate for women in law, fostering mentorship and professional development opportunities. With women comprising over 50% of law firm associates nationally, their influence in shaping Arizona’s legal landscape is both significant and growing.

Since this is the Most Influential Women in Arizona Business issue, we asked

powerhouse attorneys who have been named Most Influential Women in the past to offer advice to the next generation of legal superstars.

Jill Chasson, partner, Coppersmith Brockelman and Most Influential Woman in 2018: “It’s critical to be a good communicator, both orally and in writing, and to understand workplace laws. But soft skills matter, too: the value of empathy, humility, and a sense of humor in building relationships with clients and your colleagues cannot be underestimated.”

Jennifer A. Cranston, shareholder, Gallagher & Kennedy: “‘If you haven’t committed malpractice, you haven’t been practicing law long enough.’ It was a joke,

but it reminds me that no one is perfect. We all make mistakes; what matters is how we deal with them.”

Helen R. Davis, senior member, The Cavanagh Law Firm and Most Influential Woman in 2018: “My best advice for a new attorney is to find a great mentor. I also would encourage anyone wanting to practice law to work hard, and never give up. Pursuing your dreams is not always easy, but the sense of accomplishment is so rewarding.”

Lindsay J. Fiore, shareholder, Greenberg Traurig and Most Influential Woman in 2024: “Seek and accept constructive criticism. No one shows up on day one already a success. The people providing you

feedback do so because they want you to be your best self — not to put you down or make you feel bad. Be open to and grateful for all of it.”

Susanne E. Ingold, president, Burch & Cracchiolo and Most Influential Woman in 2018: “Never, ever give up. There are times when it may seem like there are infinitely more obstacles than openings, but in those moments finding the determination to push through changes everything. And one more thing, surround yourself with people who support you and your goals.”

Lisa Reilly Payton, senior partner, Frazer Ryan Goldberg & Arnold and Most Influential Woman in 2018: “The best professional advice I received was to work

hard, believe in yourself and find a good mentor who you aspire to be like in your field. Take time to learn from the wisdom he or she is willing to share with you.”

Sarah A. Strunk, director, Fennemore and Most Influential Woman in 2014: “I have had many gems handed down to me over the years. The two I remember the most are, ‘you don’t get anything you don’t negotiate for,’ and ‘you learn more by working with difficult people than easy people.’ These were both from a dear mentor who recently passed away. I had occasion to talk to him before he died and let him know how much he meant to me.”

Jill Chasson

Susanne E. Ingold

Helen R. Davis

Lisa Reilly Payton

Jennifer A. Cranston

Andrea Lovell

Lindsay J. Fiore

Sarah A. Strunk

WOMEN IN LAW

KARIN S.

ALDAMA

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Aldama handles complex commercial and business litigation and insurance coverage matters for mid-size to Fortune 500 companies in hospitality, finance, utilities, aerospace and semiconductors. She helps corporate clients and governmental entities find insurance programs that meet their needs and obtain the coverage to which their policies entitle them.

Strengths: “I believe that my organizational and writing skills, as well as my thoroughness and willingness to think outside the box, make me an effective attorney.”

Professional advice: “Become involved with legal and professional organizations during law school and maintain those relationships as well as relationships with your classmates after graduation, as they will help you with business development.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/karinaldama

MELISSA F. BENSON

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Benson represents families and individuals in all types of domestic relations and disputes, including divorce, custody, property division, alimony, modification of orders and beyond. She is a dedicated advocate, providing compassionate and conciergestyle service to resolve her clients’ most personal disputes. Benson leads the firm’s family law department.

Strengths: “As a family law attorney, essential traits include empathy, strong communication and resilience. Understanding clients’ emotions helps build trust, while effective communication ensures clarity. Resilience is crucial for navigating challenges, allowing us to advocate fiercely for our clients and champion their needs during difficult times.”

Professional advice: “Aspiring attorneys should cultivate empathy to connect with clients, master clear communication and remain resilient.”

SARAH M. CLIFFORD

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Clifford advises individuals, families and business owners with their estate plans to help manage and preserve wealth and assets. Her experience includes probate and trust administration, including representation of high-net-worth clients. She also works with business owners on commercial transactions, entity formation, contract review and dispute resolution.

Strengths: “I take an educational approach to estate planning, helping clients understand not just what they’re doing, but why. I believe informed decisions lead to better outcomes and greater peace of mind.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/sarahclifford

JENNIFER A. CRANSTON

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Cranston’s unique practice includes real estate litigation, insurance coverage and utility regulation. For 25 years, she has counseled land developers and private property owners in condemnation actions and valuation issues. Cranston is a member of the firm’s board of directors.

Professional advice: “No matter how strong your ideas or initiatives are, they won’t gain traction without the support of the people around you. My advice is to take the time to engage others early, listen carefully and remain open to perspectives that can improve your approach in unexpected ways. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that collaboration isn’t just strategic; it’s often what elevates a good idea into a successful outcome.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/jennifercranston

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/melissabenson

KARIN ALDAMA

MELISSA BENSON SARAH CLIFFORD

JENNIFER CRANSTON

HALEY A. HARRIGAN

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Harrigan represents and counsels individuals, small businesses, franchised operations and large companies on a wide range of employment and business disputes and litigates matters spanning labor and employment, commercial litigation and general liability. She serves as chair of the firm’s employment and labor law department.

Source of pride: “What gives me the most pride in my legal career is being able to step into a client’s most difficult or uncertain moments and deliver clarity, strategy and resolution … Knowing that a client trusted me to carry their problem — and that I was able to navigate it with both precision and compassion — is incredibly rewarding and is what motivates me every day.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/haleyharrigan

JANEY HENZE COOK

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Henze Cook handles white collar and non-white collar criminal cases arising out of felony and misdemeanor crimes, including fraudulent schemes and artifices, homicide, public corruption, drug offenses, gambling, forfeiture and offenses against public order. She also represents media enterprises with respect to First Amendment issues.

Source of pride: “I have always enjoyed the ‘helping people’ aspect of criminal law. In a system where all of the other players are part of the government, it is meaningful to be the person on my client’s side. Good people are often brought into the criminal justice system, and I like being the person who can make sure their constitutional rights are complied with and who can help them.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/janeyhenzecook

HANNAH H. PORTER

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Porter represents clients through all stages of litigation in both state and federal courts in a wide range of disputes, including breach of contract, fraud, trade secrets, business ownership issues, class actions and bid protests for government contracts. Porter also serves as the chair of the firm’s Professional Women’s Group, which focuses on professional and business development and community engagement.

Source of pride: “There is no better feeling than, after months or years of working the case and developing strategy, to argue before a judge or jury and get a verdict in my client’s favor. I’m honored to help my clients vindicate their rights.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/hannahporter

JOSEFA A. RODRIGUEZ

SHAREHOLDER

Gallagher & Kennedy

Background: Rodriguez helps families resolve domestic disputes involving legal separations, divorce proceedings, spousal maintenance, child custody and support, parental rights and domestic violence. She emphasizes strategic settlement negotiations for early resolution and pre/post-nuptial agreements. Rodriguez also helps bring families together through adoption. Professional advice: “For young attorneys or those aspiring attorneys, surround yourself with a village of cheerleaders. This support from family and friends who cheer you on can make the journey of being an attorney worth your time and make it satisfying. Additionally, it does not hurt to involve yourself in legal practice groups! Networking can bring you mentorship relationships, your next career move or involvement in your local community.”

Learn more: gknet.com/attorneys/josefarodriguez

HALEY HARRIGAN JANEY HENZE COOK HANNAH PORTER JOSEFA RODRIGUEZ

& Kennedy is Arizona’s premier full-service local law firm, advising business owners, employers, and individuals in virtually every area of law. Learn more at gknet.com. We’re here to help.

Melissa Benson Sarah Cli ord

& Trusts

Haley Harrigan Janey Henze Cook Criminal Defense Kortney Otten

Josefa Rodriguez Family Law Shareholder

Karin Aldama Litigation

Megan

Maria Raciti Catastrophic

Serafina Seluja

Eleanor Sha er Catastrophic Injury

Samantha Catalano

Adéa Michelle Sessoms and Jennifer Wolfe in the North American Tour of MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL . Photo by Matthew Murphy and Evan Zimmerman for MurphyMade

THE MISSING SEAT AT THE TABLE

Here are ways to help women close the gaps in family wealth planning

An estimated $124 trillion in wealth will change hands in the U.S. by 2048, according to Cerulli Associates. Cerulli Associates further noted about $54 trillion — more than 40% of that total — will shift within the same generation, most often from spouse to spouse, in a growing trend known as horizontal wealth transfer.

The implications of this shift are especially significant for women, who tend to live longer and often outlast male partners. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics, women were expected to live more than five years longer than men as of 2022. That added longevity places them in the position of decision-maker of overseeing legacy, long-term care and the distribution of family wealth.

Megan Ruffentine Wealth management

This shift has significant implications on estate planning. It’s no longer just about passing assets from parents to children, but about coordinating transitions across spouses, siblings and extended families.

But for many, existing frameworks may not have caught up to this reality, leaving gaps that only become visible during times of change.

Often, the responsibility for an estate plan comes after a major life event: the death of a spouse, a significant liquidity event or the need to care for aging parents. Estate planning done well requires a process that ensures every key decision-maker has a seat at the table before their leadership is needed.

Wealth in transition: Why women are at the center of legacy decisions

Today’s wealth planning landscape reflects a deeper shift in who leads. Women are increasingly at the center of decisions

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

that guide family transitions, whether they’re building businesses, managing trusts or caring for aging parents.

The most recent Census data, from 2019, reports that women own more than 12 million businesses in the U.S. While many bring deep financial expertise to their careers, involvement in estate planning at home has often varied, usually shaped by family dynamics and generational expectations.

But this dynamic is changing. According to BMO, only 31% of women aged 65 and older received early family guidance on financial topics, compared to 66% of younger Gen Z women ages 18 to 24. This growing exposure to financial education at a younger age signals a shift in how families are preparing future generations for estate and wealth planning.

The financial industry is beginning to respond with more firms investing in inclusive services, education and advisorclient relationship models that resonate with women, according to the World Economic Forum.

With longer life expectancies, expanding roles in financial leadership and growing personal wealth, women are not just inheriting family legacies but actively shaping them. Whether managing trusts, selling a business or guiding intergenerational conversations, women are central to the decisions that will define family transitions for decades to come.

Where professional leadership meets personal planning

In many families, estate planning doesn’t always mirror the leadership roles people hold in their professional or personal lives.

One person may run a business, while another manages household finances or long-term caregiving, yet neither may be fully engaged in the estate planning process. Ensuring everyone has clear visibility and a voice in the process leads to better decisions and a stronger, more resilient plan.

Just as a business wouldn’t operate without a succession plan or financial controls, a family shouldn’t either. Applying a “run your personal finances like a business” mindset to estate planning can help bring structure, foresight and accountability to decisions that impact multiple generations. Key components of this approach include:

• Reviewing assets and liabilities regularly

• Assembling a trusted advisory team

• Documenting clear roles and contingency plans

• Ensuring shared access to key information

Gaps in planning are not just conceptual; they can create obstacles when families need to act. Without the right access or documentation in place, even routine financial or healthcare decisions can become delayed, contested or impossible to carry out. Common breakdowns include:

• Frozen accounts during an emergency when a spouse or child doesn’t have legal access to funds needed for care or daily expenses

• Delays in critical treatment decisions because a healthcare proxy or power of attorney was never established or shared

• Unclear financial intent, such as charitable gifts or legacy distributions that were discussed but never formally documented

A solid estate plan isn’t just a set of documents; it’s a living conversation that includes those who will be most affected. Being part of that conversation early on means they’ll be better prepared to lead if and when the need arises.

Building the plan together: How shared leadership strengthens estate outcomes

Estate planning is a process, and one that’s most effective when it starts before a life-changing event. Strong estate plans are grounded in coordination — aligning responsibilities, access and expectations well before they’re tested — and ensuring everyone who should have a seat at the table is involved.

• Start early: Schedule a family conversation about estate planning goals and documents while everyone is calm, healthy and focused.

• Review your plan: Ensure wills, powers of attorney and healthcare directives are up to date. Include guardianship plans for minors, legal protections for adult children, and long-term provisions for dependents with special needs or added support needs.

• Assemble a team: A trusted estate planning attorney, financial advisor and tax professional can work together to ensure your plan is comprehensive and aligned with your goals.

• Secure shared access: Ensure that all key players in the estate plan — family members, trustees and caregivers — know how to access key documents, accounts and passwords. Consider storing this information in a secure digital vault or estate planning binder.

• Reflect your values: Estate plans can support philanthropic goals, family business succession and the well-being of future generations. This may include charitable giving, education planning and provisions for heirs with special needs.

Making space for those conversations not only leads to more thoughtful planning but also helps promote stability, clarity and continuity across generations, especially as the horizontal wealth transfer continues to reshape how families pass on not just assets, but leadership, values and legacy.

Megan Ruffentine, JD, is a director and private wealth advisor for BMO Wealth Management’s Arizona team, serving as lead advisor and relationship manager to high-net-worth individuals, families and organizations. BMO Bank N.A. and its affliates do not provide legal advice or tax advice to clients. You should review your particular circumstances with your independent legal and tax advisors. Information has been obtained from sources we consider to be reliable, but we cannot guarantee the accuracy. This publication is prepared for general information only.

‘GOOD’ BUSINESS

Arizona business leaders outline the impact of charitable board participation

By ALISON BAILIN BATZ

According to the ASU Lodestar Center for Philanthropy and Nonprofit Innovation,

Arizona is home to a vibrant nonprofit sector comprising over 28,000 registered taxexempt organizations, with the vast majority of these — over 24,500 — registered as 501(c)(3) charitable organizations.

“The nonprofit community in Arizona is delivering vital human services, educating youth, preserving our environment and providing platforms for us to express ourselves in safe ways,” says Abbie S. Fink, president of HMA Public Relations.

In addition to working with more than 100 nonprofits in her 30-plus years in the industry, Fink and her team frequently advise clients on board participations either because they have been approached to serve or are looking to get started in civic and community involvement and are not sure where to start.

“Giving back to the community is good for business. Whether through cash contributions, board or volunteer service, businesses that make a commitment to community will reap the benefits,” Fink says, who currently serves on the board of Valley Youth Theatre and is a past board member of Scottsdale Leadership, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale and Florence Crittenton Services of Arizona.

Fink advises that before accepting a board opportunity, business leaders ask themselves the following questions:

• Does the organization align with your values?

• If not sure what organization, what are your personal and professional passions and why?

• Do you honestly have the proper time to give to the organization?

• What are the responsibilities of your role?

• Are you willing to commit to the financial obligations associated with your role?

• Are you comfortable fundraising, if it is required?

• Will this organization teach you something new?

Thinking of joining a board? Here is insight from some of the Valley’s leading business leaders on the role of a good member, how board participation has touched their lives and how the board’s critical work has driven their organization further.

DINO CAMUÑEZ, chair, Child Crisis Arizona Board of Directors

“A good board member understands their role is not just about approving decisions but about attending board meetings and providing strategic oversight that helps to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement,” Camuñez says.

Camuñez joined the Child Crisis Arizona board in 2023 and became chair in 2025, driving efforts to secure fundraising and naming sponsorships and ensuring resources for program expansion and sustainability while amplifying the qualified charitable foster care tax credit program, enabling Arizona residents to support children in foster care while reducing their state tax liability. In recent months, he was integral to the success of the organization’s 47th annual gala, which raised over $1

million for its intervention, prevention and early education programs.

MONICA VILLALOBOS, member, Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation Board of Directors

“I feel that the board of a nonprofit is a support system for the staff and executive director as internal customers, providing guidance as necessary while empowering the staff to fulfill their mission every day,” Villalobos says. “It is also incumbent of a good board to drive new ideas as the needs of the community evolve.”

Villalobos joined the Delta Dental of Arizona Foundation board in 2023. While recruited, she made the decision to join as she connected to the organization’s mission to help underserviced populations gain access to care as she once fell into that community. Since joining, Villalobos has been part of sweeping changes within the Foundation, including the expansion of the organization’s annual grant program to support oral health and nutritional programs for both dental and non-dental programs alike, including food banks, after-school and weekend food programs for children, and senior delivery programs. In recent months, the grant program provided nearly $800,000 in grant funding as a result, and in 2024 its collective work impacted more than 426,000 Arizonans.

DENISE SEOMIN, member, Fiesta Sports Foundation Board of Directors

“A good board will take its duties of providing governance and strategic direction very seriously, ensuring the work

and goals of the organization adhere to its mission and vision. It’s important to ask questions, ensuring everyone within the organization has clearcut responsibilities and a collective focus,” Seomin says.

Seomin joined the Fiesta Sports Foundation board of directors in 2016 after serving on the organization’s Yellow Jacket Committee since 2009. As part of her role, she serves as the board liaison to the Media Operations Committee, working directly with all committee members to create a best-inclass experience for both local and visiting press covering the organization’s Vrbo Fiesta Bowl and Rate Bowl, which generate an annual impact of more than $175 million. In 2024, the organization — known simply as the Fiesta Bowl since its inception in 1971 — rebranded as the Fiesta Sports Foundation to better reflect its role as a year-round leader in creating unforgettable experiences through premier games and events, along with unparalleled hospitality, while providing lifechanging community support across Arizona.

DAWN MARIE BUCKLAND, chair, Advance Community Board of Directors

“A good board sets clear expectations and strategic policy and vision for the organization, removing barriers and empowering the CEO to accomplish strategic goals,” Buckland says. “A good board member conveys a great sense of purpose, and is both encouraging and responsive to staff, and gets volunteers and donors excited about the impact they have on the lives of the people they serve.” Buckland joined the Advance Community

board in 2020 and became its chair in 2024. She is focused on supporting Advance in its work to resolve some of the most important issues impacting the people of Arizona and across the globe including access to medical care, nutrition, community development and health education. Most recently, Advance has expanded its Phoenix programming to include cooking and delivery of meals to seniors and distribution of nutritious food boxes for participants in the health education and nutrition classes.

JERI ROYCE, chair, AZ Impact for Good Board of Directors

“The board is a strategic partner to the CEO, listening, sharing their collective and individual expertise, and making recommendations when appropriate. There is often a solid line between operations and governance, but I feel the most effective way to work together is in partnership and transparency on both sides,” Royce says.

Royce joined the AZ Impact for Good board in 2020 and became its chair in 2024. AZ Impact for Good’s mission is to unite nonprofits and philanthropy to transform Arizona through education, advocacy and innovation. The organization serves more than 1,000 member organizations across the state. In recent months, Royce and her team demonstrated strategic leadership when its long-term CEO resigned. The board responded quickly by forming a transition team, working closely with staff leadership and appointing an interim CEO to ensure operations continued.

BILL OTTINGER, chair, Valley Youth Theatre

“A good board member makes themselves available. Ask the staff directly how you can help. You should be approachable and let them know you’re available. The same goes with sponsors and donors; meeting them and building a connection in person should be a priority,” Ottinger says.

Ottinger joined the Valley Youth Theatre board in 2022, inspired by his children’s participation in the organization. He has served two terms as board chair since 2023. In recent months, in addition to exploring possible sites for a new theatre and administrative offices, the organization has completed a successful production season, has finalized plans for the upcoming season and is in the early stages of planning for its annual fundraiser, A VYTal Affair, scheduled for November 8 at the Herberger Theater Center.

Denise Seomin

Jeri Royce

Bill Ottinger

Abbie S. Fink

Dino Camuñez

Dawn Marie Buckland

Monica Villalobos

Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock

POWER THROUGH PRESENCE

Experts offers advice on strengthening your personal brand in a way that builds opportunities

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Building a strong personal brand empowers women business leaders to stand out, showcase their unique value and build credibility. It enhances visibility, fosters trust and ensures they’re top-of-mind when opportunities arise. A clear, consistent

JENNIFER ADLER MCLAUGHLIN, founder and CEO, Adler Public Relations:

“Women business leaders can build their personal brands by sharing their expertise and positioning themselves as industry thought leaders — both online and offline. Pursuing subject matter expert editorial opportunities, sharing insights on social media, attending networking events and applying for leadership awards are all great ways to increase visibility. A clear, confident, authentic and strategic presence ensures your personal brand speaks for itself when opportunity knocks.”

JAN BRACAMONTE, founder, J. Lauren PR:

“Leaders can build their own impactful personal brands through purposeful storytelling that blends authenticity, expertise and visibility — both online and in person. Regularly sharing insights, engaging meaningfully in industry conversations and thoughtfully leveraging media opportunities helps establish credibility and trust. Consistency is key. This intentional approach positions them strategically, ensuring they’re top-of-mind when significant career opportunities arise.”

brand positions them as experts, making it easier to attract promotions, partnerships, and professional growth. We have asked the most innovative women leaders in the world of public relations to offer advice on how women can build their personal brands.

SAMANTHA DEROSE, vice president, The McRae Agency:

“Your personal brand is your reputation. In PR, that starts with building real relationships. How you present yourself, how you treat people, whether clients, colleagues or members of the media, and how consistently you deliver results all shape your brand. That trust and credibility open doors, often before you even know they’re there.”

MELISSA DIGIANFILIPPO, founder and CEO, Proof Publicity:

“Build visibility through deliberate storytelling. As a PR agency owner, I’ve found that women leaders who strategically curate their professional narrative — highlighting specific professional and personal wins, sharing informed perspectives and revealing calculated glimpses behind the curtain — create magnetic personal brands. The digital footprint you cultivate today becomes tomorrow’s career currency. Be unapologetically visible.”

MORGAN DOMARACKI, senior director of accounts, MMPR:

“Strong professional relationships are crucial for leaders in the world of PR and marketing when it comes to building our personal brand. These connections offer key platforms to showcase our expertise and build credibility. And nurturing these relationships organically allows us to develop a strong network, providing valuable knowledge, support and potential alliances for success.”

DANIELLE FANNING, director of public relations, Aker Ink:

“Your personal brand, and opportunities you pursue to build it, should reflect who you naturally are. If you’re someone who loves mentoring or storytelling, lean into that — invest time into aligned writing, speaking or community activities. Your authenticity will build trust, attract like-minded collaborators and open the right doors.”

DANIELLE FEROLETO, president, Small Giants:

“The beautiful thing about a personal brand is that it is like a thumbprint that originates from your heart and mind. Different from a company brand, it is unique to you but it behaves like a company brand in that it is validated by others, not you. So, take the time to think about your brand and craft it to be distinctive, something others in the workforce would value and make sure they witness it. Declaring your personal brand on a resume and in conversation during an interview is an excellent way to stand out.”

ABBIE S. FINK, president, HMA Public Relations:

“Regularly and consistently engage in networking opportunities. As a business leader, get involved in the community by volunteering for the board of your professional association or with a nonprofit you are passionate about. It’s not just being in the right place at the right time; it’s knowing you are there and doing something about it.”

HOLLY MORGAN, visionary, Holly Morgan Media:

“Embrace your power, not just your polish. Share failures loudly, show ambition unapologetically and build visibility through opinion — not perfection. A strong brand isn’t quiet or curated — it’s provocative, human and seen. Be impossible to ignore, and opportunities won’t knock — they’ll chase.”

VERONIQUE JAMES, CEO of The James Agency:

“Your personal brand is your legacy in motion. Share your story with authenticity, clarity and consistency. Invest in building relationships and creating impact long before you need a door to open. Opportunity follows visibility, and true leadership shines brightest when it’s fueled by lifting others.”

ANGELA MENNINGER, CEO and founder, Flutter Public Relations:

“True success boils down to two things: authenticity and good karma. For me, that means honoring my social butterfly spirit and connecting people who can open doors for each other. I love seeing those serendipitous introductions flourish. It also means aligning with purpose-driven, charismatic brands (big names, but also entrepreneurs with big ideas) and always being approachable and transparent with clients (and my team).”

ROBYN PATTERSON, founder and president, Mack Media Relations:

“Successful business leaders distinguish themselves by building personal brands that highlight their professional achievements and expertise. By developing thought leadership content and sharing their unique industry perspectives, they create value while increasing visibility. Strategic relationship-building and authentic consistency across platforms enables these connections to evolve into powerful career opportunities.”

ANNE ROBERTSON, managing director of public relations and publicity, LAVIDGE:

“Brand reputations emerge from your success as a leader, colleague, collaborator and the value you create for your constituents. If you put forth dedication and passion into all you do, your brand will find itself. To enhance the brand visibility, join community organizations and utilize LinkedIn to deepen your connections and credibility.”

MELISSA A. SWADER, president and CEO, Ruby Red Media:

“Women business leaders can build their personal brand by embracing authenticity, showcasing expertise through thought leadership, and strategically leveraging social media. Consistent storytelling, active networking, and aligning their brand with clear values foster trust and visibility. A strong, recognizable brand also positions women to confidently seize more career opportunities and collaboration projects that help gain more PR visibility leading to even more business.”

ELAINA VERHOFF, owner, Elaina V. Public Relations:

“For years, I strived to work hard, think creatively, and exceed expectations. But I also thought it was best to keep my head down and stay under the radar. With the wisdom of experience, I now see women business leaders need to do great work but also not shy away from the spotlight. And follow your gut, always.”

REVOLUTIONIZING PATIENT CARE

In its first 10 years as an organization, HonorHealth becomes a healthcare game-changer both locally and globally

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

When Todd LaPorte became the 10th CEO in the 150-year history of the Arizona-based healthcare organization now known as HonorHealth, he didn’t make any of the typical power moves to signal there was a new sheriff in town.

There was no corner office makeover — not even a new paint job.

“I had a mural put on the office wall,” LaPorte says. “It shows people performing their roles with smiles on

their faces, showing that they enjoy what they do.”

The mural in LaPorte’s office includes the HonorHealth logo and the phrase, “The joy of making a difference.”

The brilliance of LaPorte’s gesture is that those six simple words — the joy of making a difference — capture the essence and mission of HonorHealth: to improve the health and well-being of those it serves. The organization is guided by its ICARE values: Innovation, Collaboration,

Accountability, Respect and Empathy. Through these efforts, HonorHealth has become a pivotal player in enhancing healthcare accessibility and the quality of care across Arizona.

“There are different taglines we’ve used, but they’re not just for marketing purposes,” LaPorte says. “One we use now captures part of our culture, which is ‘go beyond.’ The idea is that it’s OK to care and extend yourself beyond the minimum requirements. We love people who

CULTURE OF INNOVATION: The HonorHealth Research Institute is a nationally recognized center for medical innovation, accelerating breakthroughs in cancer, cardiovascular, neurological and metabolic diseases through cutting-edge clinical trials and personalized care. Established in 2005, it collaborates with leading institutions like TGen, Harvard and Johns Hopkins to bring tomorrow’s treatments to patients today. (Photo provided by HonorHealth)

demonstrate enthusiasm and engagement and have an attitude of, ‘Yes, I’m going to go beyond.’”

HonorHealth has been going beyond expectations for more than a decade, evolving into a healthcare innovator and game-changer — pioneering advanced treatments, catalyzing cutting-edge research, redefining patient care and setting new standards for medical excellence. All of this has been accomplished while fostering a culture that provides the most

approachable and accessible medical experts in the industry — a rarity in today’s healthcare landscape.

A history of helping HonorHealth’s roots date back to 1927, when Desert Mission was established in Sunnyslope to aid tuberculosis patients and underserved populations. Desert Mission eventually evolved into the John C. Lincoln Health Network. In 1962, City Hospital of Scottsdale opened, later becoming

Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center and eventually evolving into Scottsdale Healthcare.

HonorHealth was born when the John C. Lincoln Health Network and Scottsdale Healthcare officially merged in 2015. And what a decade it has been.

“In the last decade, we stabilized the merger of two organizations, we effectively responded to a public healthcare crisis during the pandemic, we raised our quality ratings from third-party objective

JIM WHITFILL, MD

Senior vice president, chief transformation officer

Background: “As chief transformation officer at HonorHealth, I lead innovation, digital strategy and strategic partnerships. As a practicing primary care physician and professor at ASU, I’m passionate about building collaborative, tech-forward solutions that improve care, support our teams and strengthen the health of our communities.”

Attraction to HonorHealth: “The opportunity to serve my community is what initially attracted me, but I stay because of the mission-driven culture and the extraordinary people. It’s rare to find such a capable, collaborative team so deeply aligned to a shared commitment around community health — and I’m grateful for that every day.”

sources, and we improved our employee and physician engagement compared to our peer group,” LaPorte says. “We expanded our footprint and created more convenience and access to care through medical group practices and urgent care sites. We developed a rehab hospital, a behavioral health hospital and we advanced clinical programs with world-class talent in cardiology, neurosciences and orthopedics.”

Through all those successes, HonorHealth has remained true to the original mission of Desert Mission — serving community members with the greatest need. A powerful example of that commitment is HonorHealth’s acquisition of several Arizona-based Steward Health Care facilities.

“There was a part of the community that was going to have their healthcare service availability put at risk,” LaPorte says. “We felt the calling and saw it as something we could help address. I’m very proud of all the people in our organization who helped make that happen.”

Culture club

Not only did the Steward acquisition reflect the mission of HonorHealth, it also illustrates another key differentiator for the organization: its culture.

“Culture is such an obtuse word in so many ways,” says Kim Post, executive vice president and chief operations officer for HonorHealth and one of Az Business magazine’s Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2018.

“But it became clear to me, after acquiring these new hospitals in the East Valley, just how wonderful a culture we have — and how that culture breeds success and commitment to our mission.”

Post, whose background is in nursing, says HonorHealth’s culture is centered around its overarching mission: providing exceptional care for patients wherever they are, empowering staff to grow professionally and leading with honor. The glue holding all these aspirations together, she says, is effective communication.

“That culture enables us to focus on safety,” Post says.

THE HISTORY OF HONORHEALTH

patients and underserved populations.

John C. Lincoln and his wife Helen relocate to Phoenix for Helen’s tuberculosis treatment. They become major supporters of Desert Mission, leading to the development of the Desert Mission Convalescent Hospital.

The hospital is renamed John C. Lincoln North Mountain Hospital in honor of its benefactor.

Shea Medical Center opens to serve north Scottsdale.

City Hospital of Scottsdale opens, later becoming Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center.

Thompson Peak Medical Center opens to serve the northern Scottsdale community.

Virginia G. Piper Cancer Center opens on the Shea campus, offering personalized cancer care.

Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network becomes HonorHealth and the first baby is born in an HonorHealth hospital in March. HonorHealth now delivers more than 7,000 per year.

John C. Lincoln Health Network and Scottsdale Healthcare create an affiliation and launch Scottsdale Lincoln Health Network.

Scottsdale

Scottsdale

Desert Mission is established in Sunnyslope to aid tuberculosis

HonorHealth not only offers safetyrelated classes and events for the public and patients, but it also held a mass casualty incident exercise, allowing medical centers and agencies to review and evaluate policies, procedures and responses to decontamination scenarios.

“We are happy when we find problems with systems,” Post says. “Because we want to keep them from happening again. The culture we often see in healthcare is the exact opposite — they don’t want anything bad to be talked about. But you cannot fix anything that way. Our culture is very focused on providing the safest, best outcome for patients that we possibly can, no matter where they appear.”

That philosophy ties back to HonorHealth’s commitment to “going beyond.”

“We have built a culture where people say, ‘I’m not told I have to do it; I’m not asked to do it — but you know what? I want to do it,’” LaPorte says. “There’s also this idea of working together and being a team, which was really pronounced during the

pandemic. There’s no way to get through a crisis without people respecting their lanes — but also respecting the synergy of working together. And that’s a vital part of the culture at HonorHealth.”

Culture of innovation

Another way HonorHealth goes beyond is by being an innovator and trailblazer in the healthcare space. Fueling much of that innovation is the HonorHealth Research Institute (HRI), which is focused on advanced treatments and personalized medicine. A powerful example of the game-changing work being done at HonorHealth is the development of a simple blood test that can help predict who is at higher risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease — years before any symptoms like memory loss or confusion begin.

“Our mission has been to make sure people in our community have access to cutting-edge technology and nextgeneration therapies and devices,” says Dr. Mark Slater, vice president for research at

Incoming senior vice president, chief nurse executive

Background: “With over 27 years of strategic healthcare and executive nursing experience, I will lead nursing strategy as the enterprise chief nurse executive at HonorHealth, supporting teams dedicated to delivering exceptional and compassionate care. My focus is on empowering nurses’ voices to enhance outcomes for the patients and communities we serve.”

Attraction to HonorHealth: “I was attracted to HonorHealth due to its reputation for having a strong, inclusive culture dedicated to nursing and clinical excellence. The organization’s impressive quality outcomes, Magnet designations, and high Leapfrog Safety scores demonstrate its commitment to excellence and solidify its exceptional reputation in the Phoenix market.”

The first heart stent that dissolves completely over time and represents the next major advance in coronary artery disease treatment is implanted at HonorHealth Scottsdale Shea Medical Center.

HonorHealth opens HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center in North Phoenix and forms a joint venture to operate all 30 of FastMed Urgent Care’s Arizona-based clinics in the Phoenix and Tucson areas.

HonorHealth opens its latest healthcare facility, HonorHealth Complete Care, in Surprise. There are now two with a third under construction.

HonorHealth opens the $44 million, state-of-the-art Bob Bové Neuroscience Institute at HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center.

SEPTEMBER: HonorHealth assumes operational control of East Valley and Florence facilities from Steward Health. OCTOBER: Arizona State University and HonorHealth finalize an agreement for HonorHealth to serve as the primary clinical affiliate for ASU’s School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering, a central component of ASU Health.

2025: HonorHealth opens HonorHealth Medical Campus at Peoria, a one-stop-shop for a variety of services, including cancer care, primary care, physical therapy, gastroenterology, breast surgery, outpatient surgery, medical imaging and more.

TERESA CONNOLLY

Todd LaPorte becomes the 10th CEO in the organization’s history, emphasizing financial and strategic leadership.

HEALTHCARE

JARED A. LANGKILDE

President and CEO, HonorHealth Foundation

Background: “As president and CEO of the HonorHealth Foundation, I lead efforts to connect community support with initiatives that advance health and well-being. I’m committed to building partnerships that make a lasting impact on both patient care and medical innovation.”

Source of pride: “Knowing our work directly supports lifesaving care and provides a sense of hope. One hundred percent of every gift helps patients, families and caregivers. Being part of a team that empowers generosity to find cures, save lives and transform healthcare for the better is both humbling and incredibly fulfilling.”

MAULIK SHAH

Executive director, HonorHealth Heart Care

Background: “As an interventional cardiologist and executive director of HonorHealth Heart Care, I am excited about leading our team to provide high-quality, patient-centered cardiovascular care. Our program has grown tremendously over the last decade with a relentless focus on clinical excellence, innovation, research and a personalized approach to treatment.”

Source of pride: “My physician teammates and I take pride in being accountable for the health of our patients, friends and families. HonorHealth’s investment in state-of-the-art technology and cardiovascular innovation has helped us deliver outstanding care, attract top talent and earn national recognition as a trusted leader in heart health.”

HonorHealth and CEO of HRI.

Local access to such advanced treatments was rare when HRI was launched 20 years ago. That has changed dramatically. The research being done — and the results being achieved — at HRI have helped make Metro Phoenix a destination for those seeking solutions to complex healthcare challenges.

“Just within our institute, we have patients from all 50 states and about 37 countries who come here for our early-stage clinical trials and research because they have a problem that’s not well served by standard medicine,” Dr. Slater says. “They don’t know what to do, and they’re seeking out expertise.”

Dr. Slater attributes HRI’s success to its ability to unite the best researchers from academia with brilliant clinical minds. Together, they are making life-changing differences right here in Arizona.

“In the academic world, we were always frustrated because the bureaucracy was slow, expensive and it was difficult to access patients. It took about 30 years for new advances to move from academic research into standard care,” Dr. Slater says. “Here, we’ve learned to shorten that timespan, eliminate the middleman, reduce bureaucracy, make it nimble and quick, and focus on situations where both patients and doctors have pressing needs — and we can apply advanced science to make a difference.”

That’s where HonorHealth has set itself apart as a healthcare leader.

“HonorHealth has attracted worldclass talent and cutting-edge technology, yet packaged it all in a warm, welcoming environment that prioritizes caring for patients, their families, and the broader community,” Dr. Slater says. “That’s been unique in my years of medicine.”

Is there a doctor in the house?

Another unique aspect of HonorHealth is how it interacts with its medical staff. While physicians and nurses are on the front lines of patient care, they don’t always have a seat at the table when it comes to directing healthcare organizations. That’s not the case at HonorHealth, which has cultivated a culture that attracts and empowers some of the greatest minds in medicine.

“We have several physicians who sit on our senior executive leadership team,” says

Dr. John Neal, executive vice president, chief physician executive, and network strategy officer for HonorHealth. “So there’s a lot of physician perspective at the highest levels of leadership in our organization — and the same is true for nursing. Some organizations view physicians as potentially disruptive. They don’t want doctors telling them what to do, so they don’t want them in the room. HonorHealth is the exact opposite. We want doctors there with us. We want doctors as part of the decision-making process because we feel like we’re all in this together. At the end of the day, we don’t have a business unless we have physicians who are eager and willing to treat patients in our facilities. And we recognize that.”

There is data showing a direct correlation between how engaged physicians and nurses are and their healthcare organization’s quality and patient safety scores.

“The clinical outcomes are better when physicians and other clinical staff are engaged and aligned with what you’re doing,” Dr. Neal says. “We don’t just view it as a business imperative. We view it as an ethical imperative to create an environment where people want to work — because we know it’s going to drive better outcomes for our patients.”

The future

Many healthcare organizations are finding themselves on life support as the nation grapples with a severe physician shortage, a crisis expected to worsen in the coming years. To help address that shortage, HonorHealth has become the primary clinical affiliate for the new ASU School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering.

“We think being affiliated with a big, research-driven university that’s known for innovation is going to attract the next generation of talent — talent that isn’t afraid of emerging technologies and will actually become the creators of those technologies,” Dr. Neal says. “One of the reasons we launched the affiliation with ASU was to attract and retain talent that will hopefully stay in our community. We’re trying to address the physician shortage on multiple fronts — by helping to train and foster relationships with the next generation of healthcare workers,

“HonorHealth has become the primary clinical affiliate for the new ASU School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering.

”PRIYA RADHAKRISHNAN, MD

Chief academic officer, vice president of Health Equity

Background: “I’m the chief academic officer at HonorHealth and vice dean for clinical affairs and GME for ASU’s new School of Medicine and Advanced Medical Engineering. Trained as an internal medicine physician, my focus is expanding medical education. Our GME programs grew from two to 19 in a decade, earning national recognition for excellence and innovation.”

Attraction to HonorHealth: “What drew me to HonorHealth was its unwavering mission, community focus and collaborative culture — an ideal place to build a meaningful career. Over the past nine years, I’ve helped grow our academic programs and establish a clinical partnership with Arizona State University, all driven by a shared purpose to serve others and improve lives.”

building a local health system that is a great place to work, and encouraging an environment of innovation and care. Organizations that don’t check all three of those boxes are going to face real challenges. We check all three.”

While it may sound counterintuitive for an organization focused on quality outcomes, delivering the best patient experienc, and expanding community access, LaPorte says one of HonorHealth’s goals is to see fewer

patients in the future — by focusing on population health management.

“We’re very interested in being more than a hospital system — more than just treating people when they’re ill,” LaPorte says. “How do we engage with the community on the front end and help them be healthy and not need to go to the hospital? We view that as a victory. This is not about heads in beds. This is about keeping a community healthy.”

Dr. Mark Slater Kim Post

Dr. John Neal Todd Laporte

HOT SPOT

Moxies Scottsdale blends globally inspired cuisine with stylish ambiance to create the perfect Scottsdale dining destination

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

AAMERICAN CLASSIC: Moxies

Scottsdale is a must-visit dining destination for its chic atmosphere, globally inspired cuisine and vibrant social scene. (Photo courtesy of Experience Scottsdale)

s soon as you step into Moxies, you immediately realize you are in THE place to be, which is saying a lot when you are in Scottsdale.

Moxies Scottsdale is a magnet for the beautiful and hip, blending chic décor, handcrafted cocktails and globally inspired cuisine. Its energetic vibe, fashionable crowd and stylish ambiance make it a go-to destination for influencers, business leaders, deal-makers and trendsetters seeking a vibrant social scene in the heart of Scottsdale’s luxury district.

Moxies Scottsdale, nestled in Fashion Square, delivers a standout upscale-casual dining experience. Its stylishly designed 12,000 -square-foot space — complete with lush greenery, whimsical wallpaper, gold accents, and a central island bar — offers inviting indoor, lounge and outdoor seating with fire-pit tables and heaters for yearround enjoyment

The globally inspired menu, crafted fresh in-house by Executive Chef Brandon Thordarson, features creative dishes like Tuna Sushi Stack, Chipotle Mango Chicken, Vegetable Power Bowl and Scottish Salmon

— that prove to be both innovative and crowd-pleasing. Brunch fans rave about quick service and flavorful options, while happy -hour offerings and half-price wine on Wednesdays keep guests coming back for more.

Moxies offers an elevated bar experience with handcrafted cocktails and a sommelier- curated wine list. Sports lovers enjoy more than 20 LED TVs, making it a perfect spot to catch a game. Its vibrant ambiance balances energy and casual comfort, striking a sweet spot for everything from family dinners to spirited celebrations

In addition to stellar food and drink, Moxies excels in service and environment. Yelp reviews celebrate its upbeat vibe, attentive staff, and suitability for groups and events. Known for group-friendly hospitality, it even caters to corporate gatherings and special occasions, accommodating up to 350 guests.

But it’s the food as Moxies that turns the most heads. The Tuna Sushi Stack ($20) is a standout, layering fresh ahi tuna, avocado and crisp wontons. The Chipotle

Mango Chicken ($31) offers sweet heat with grilled chicken, mango salsa and chipotle glaze. The Scottish Salmon ($34) is perfectly seared and served with seasonal vegetables. For a vegetarian favorite, the Power Bowl ($20) combines ancient grains, roasted veggies and citrus dressing. Finally, the indulgent White Chocolate Brownie ($13), served warm with vanilla ice cream, is a must for dessert lovers. Each dish showcases Moxies’ commitment to freshness, flavor and vibrant presentation.

Moxies Scottsdale is more than a meal — it’s an experience. With inspired global cuisine, dynamic ambiance, handcrafted libations and warm service, it’s a culinary destination for locals and visitors alike. Whether brunching, watering up at happy hour, catching sports, or celebrating large groups, Moxies successfully blends sophistication, comfort and excitement in the heart of Scottsdale.

It’s the place to be, and the place to be seen.

Learn more: moxies.com

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COMING NEXT ISSUE

HOT SHOT

Glenrosa brilliantly elevates golf course dining with with a Sonoran-inspired culinary destination

By MICHAEL GOSSIE

Agolf course restaurant distinguishes itself with scenic views, relaxed ambiance, elevated menus and finding the perfect blend of sport, leisure and culinary experience. Glenrosa not only strikes that balance brilliantly, it elevates itself into a dining destination, not just a golf course dining destination.

Located at the scenic Grass Clippings Rolling Hills Golf Course (Arizona’s only lighted course), Glenrosa brings vibrant Sonoran-inspired cuisine to Tempe, guided by James Beard-nominated Chef Samantha Sanz and Executive Chef Victor Davila. This compelling collaboration pays homage to authentic Sonoran flavors through woodfired cooking, tacos, hot dogs and emberroasted meats.

Glenrosa’s casual yet thoughtful menu puts guests in the heart of Sonora; think family-style platters with ribeye, tortillas, roasted vegetables, rice and beans, along with tacos, salads and salsas. These all pair with Glenrosa’s beverage program, where

cocktails are made with scratch mixes and fresh squeezed juices.

The restaurant’s design highlights Arizona’s cultural and agrarian roots.

Housed in a remodeled 1980s-style building, Glenrosa features warm wood, concrete, burgundy tile, vintage Americana décor and a striking live-fire grill surrounded by handcrafted tile. The indooroutdoor layout, complete with fire pits and group-friendly seating, offers sweeping views of the Papago Buttes — ideal for sharing memorable meals.

Glenrosa’s menu is bold yet approachable. Lunch focuses on traditional street tacos and salads, like Tacos Dorados ($11) and Tijuana Salad ($15). Dinner elevates the experience with wood-fired entrees — bone-in ribeye ($85), Scottish salmon ($35), Mediterranean-style branzino ($70), and Two Wash Ranch chicken ($39 for a whole chicken) served on family-style platters and paired with seasonal sides and fresh tortillas. The curated beverage

program includes scratch-made cocktails (Marigold Margarita, Papago Pomegranate Paloma) and a robust wine and beer list.

The Sonoran live- fire concept isn’t just about flavor — it’s a gathering place. With the “Stay Grassy” ethos, Glenrosa emphasizes community and celebration, making it great for post-golf meals or casual get-togethers.

Patrons on Yelp and Instagram praise the vibe, outdoor seating, and service. One Yelp review noted, “Amazing new spot… live fire Sonoran food!” while OpenTable diners highlight the atmosphere and fire pits as East Valley standouts.

Glenrosa shines by combining heritagedriven Sonoran cuisine, dynamic ambiance, and fire-kissed flavors in a setting that feels both casual and refined. Whether you’re enjoying lunch, sunset cocktails or dinner around the fire pit, it delivers a distinctive Arizona dining experience worth exploring.

Learn more: glenrosarestaurant.com

FRESH TAKE: The overwhelming philosophy of Glenrosa is fresh from the ground up, and that comes to life with Glenrosa’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients. (Photo provided by Glenrosa)

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TICKETS ON SALE SOON

INNOVATION MEETS ADVENTURE

The West Valley positions itself as an emerging powerhouse in both technology and tourism

CULINARY

KING: Peoria has quickly become the new heartbeat of destination dining in the West Valley. (Photo by Mike Mertes, Az Business, a publication of AZ Big Media)

ENGINE OF OPPORTUNITY

Arizona is booming, and the Logistics Park Phoenix project will be the engine of opportunity powering its future. Backed by a $3.2 billion investment from BNSF Railway, this state-of-the-art freight rail facility in northwest Maricopa County will create over 76,000 jobs and unlock long-term economic prosperity. With a fully integrated intermodal terminal, logistics park, and distribution hub, it’s built to move goods faster and smarter than ever before.

Supercharging supply chains to keep Arizona thriving.

SRP offers tools and tips for businesses to weather Arizona’s monsoon season

By ERIN THORBURN

Some states have earthquakes, others tornadoes — in Arizona, we get monsoons. While some monsoons are brief and cause minimal trouble, others can inflict significant damage and disrupt business operations, including power outages. When this happens, it’s reassuring to know that help is available. At SRP, dedicated Strategic Energy Managers (SEM) are there to guide companies through outages and help them prepare for future monsoon-related power problems.

From ‘nonsoon’ to monsoon: 2025 will likely see more storms

This year, Arizona is expected to see a rise in monsoons. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), monsoon season is projected to “lean above normal.”

For businesses that depend on uninterrupted services, the prospect of monsoon-related outages can be daunting. But SRP is at the ready to ensure its business partners remain informed and supported at all times.

“SRP prepares year-round for the monsoon season and summer season,” says Pedro Rios, Valued Business Customer Energy Manager (SEM) for SRP. “We do planned maintenance and have monitoring devices in place that will alert us to any interruptions in the SRP grid.”

Rios explains that alerts to the grid prompt an immediate response to safely restore power. At the same time, businesses are kept up to date on all phases of a power outage until power is restored.

Keeping

businesses

continuously prepared and informed

When signing up for an SRP account, business customers receive:

• eNotes: SRP sends text and email alerts to customers notifying them of an outage, its location, the reason for the outage and an estimated restoration time. “These [messages] are updated as the outage goes on, and customers receive a notification when the outage is over and power is back on,” Rios explains.

• Business outage planning checklist: Customers can access a full checklist of business continuity plans, equipment safety, emergency and safety protocols, and employee and customer preparedness for monsoon-related outages at srpnet.com/outagetraining.

• Monsoon season webinar: Just over 10 minutes, this SRP webinar instructs businesses how to proactively plan for monsoon season and beyond.

• Assigned Strategic Energy Manager (SEM): Each business has a dedicated SEM to contact regarding all SRP-related energy needs. They help companies optimize energy usage, reduce costs, improve energy efficiency and prepare and remain informed about weatherrelated outages.

“If there’s an outage, your SEM can report it on your behalf and relay key information, like the estimated restoration time and, if available, the cause,” Rios says. “Our goal is always to restore power within two hours. If it extends beyond that, outage eNotes will keep you up to date with the latest timeline.”

Stay safe during outages

Safety is among SRP’s top priorities. Downed power lines are a major safety concern, and often, individuals are unsure about what to do if they encounter one.

“We always advise SRP customers that if they’re near or around those power lines, to always assume that they’re live and stay away,” Rios says. “The guidance is a minimum of 100 feet of distance between you and the power line; think of staying ‘two semi trucks’ distance away and call 911 when it is safe to do so.”

“It’s recommended that you shuffle away from a downed power line, rather than walking or running away, to reduce the risk of shock,” Rios adds.

One of the best ways to ensure your business is monsoon-ready is to practice safety and emergency protocols throughout the year, such as assigning an emergency and safety point of contact, taking inventory of equipment and applying backup storage when needed, as examples.

“SRP recommends [companies] practice going through an outage,” Rios says. “If you can practice it, even if it’s once or twice a year, then when it does come that time, it will be almost second nature as opposed to a panic reaction.”

To learn more about how to protect your business during monsoon season and how SRP can help prepare and support your company, visit srpnet.com/ customer-service/safety/outages-storm.

‘TIS THE SEASON: Monsoon season in Arizona, typically from June to September, brings dramatic thunderstorms, intense rain, powerful winds and spectacular desert lightning displays that offer both beauty and danger. (Photo licensed from 123RF)

West Valley: WIRED FOR GROWTH

From semiconductors to startups, the West Valley’s tech sector is booming thanks to regional synergy and bold innovation

By ERIN THORBURN

The strength of a magnet’s pull depends on its magnetic properties and the strength of its field. There are several reasons why companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), which is investing $165 billion in its game-changing West Valley facilities, and Amkor, with its $2 billion facility and 500,000 square feet of clean room space in Peoria, have been drawn to the West Valley.

The West Valley has the workforce talent, educational pathways and regional collaboration to support and attract tech and advanced manufacturing businesses now, and in the future.

Growth starts with a spark

In addition to TSMC and Amkor, Microsoft invested $258 million to acquire 280 acres in the El Mirage area to support data center development. But it’s not just the tech giants who are being pulled toward the magnetic tech field of the West

Valley. Startups find that the region is ripe with opportunities to get technology businesses off the ground. In 2024-2025, the West Valley Innovation Alliance aided 47 startups in creating business plans and securing funding.

Several catalysts contribute to the tech sector’s growth in the West Valley, but perhaps chief among them is collaboration.

“WESTMARC has been a force to be reckoned with in transforming the West Valley into a unified, high-performing region for tech sector growth,” says Jeanine Jerkovic, economic development director for the City of Surprise. “Its leadership in convening stakeholders, amplifying regional assets and advancing legislative and workforce priorities ensures we compete effectively for transformational tech investments.”

As part of ongoing collaborative efforts to foster the West Valley’s growing technology presence, the City of Surprise

established “Spark Surprise.” This program is a reimagined initiative for innovation, entrepreneurship and startups within the community.

“In spring 2025, we launched Spark Surprise, a business development hub set to open in the heart of our dynamic new downtown district on Elm Street,” Jerkovic says. “Co-located near our future employment corridor at Surprise City Center, Spark Surprise will serve as a launchpad for founders, providing wraparound services and scalable resources for startups rooted in technology and innovation.”

Innovation soars with Canyon Ventures

As of June 2024, Grand Canyon University’s startup business accelerator, Canyon Ventures, housed 13 companies and employed 56 GCU students and 16 GCU alumni.

The accelerator operates out of a co-

working space at GCU, providing resources, support, mentorship, training and more for students and entrepreneurs. Several technology businesses were born through Canyon Ventures and have since flourished. Since its inception in 2020, the startup incubator has helped launch and cultivate several thriving companies in the tech and advanced manufacturing space.

Weston Smith, founder and CEO of Lux Manufacturing, played an integral part in the establishment of Canyon Ventures. Developing electric longboards out of his dorm room presented the young entrepreneur with a dilemma. “My roommates were going to evict me because I had all this stuff just floating around,” he says.

Before his impending eviction, Smith took swift action. “I went and talked to the dean of the business college, who happened to be Dr. Randy Gibb, now the provost, and said, ‘Dr. Gibb, I need a place to work. Can I

have a storage closet?’”

Smith got more than a storage closet and was provided with workspace in an old business complex. A year later, Canyon Ventures was born, with Smith as the accelerator’s first occupant.

Now, Smith heads up Lux Manufacturing, a company that provides high-precision CNC milling and lathe operations, solid model machining and high-volume assembly for a range of industries, including medical devices, industrial equipment, sustainable energy, semiconductors and consumer electronics.

Full-circle opportunities

Kevin Vega and Suman Dangol, cofounders of Vox Custom AI Solutions, are also part of Canyon Ventures’ entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“Canyon Ventures has been more than just a home base,” Vega says. “It has been the engine behind our acceleration. Being

in the West Valley puts us in the middle of a growing innovation ecosystem, but what really helped us take off has been the support of Robert Vera, the founding director of Canyon Ventures.”

Dangol adds, “Robert has been pivotal to the growth of The Vox Company as a mentor, connector and early believer in what we’re building.”

Since their time with Canyon Ventures, Vega and Dangol earned $5,000 and the AZ Venture of the Year Award at GCU’s Demo Day in February for their Vox Box, touted as the world’s first AI-powered business consultant in a box. The Vox Box produces solutions for businesses by providing artificial intelligence, design, branding and marketing services.

“Winning AZ Venture of the Year was a major milestone for us,” Dangol explains. “It validated everything we’ve been working toward and showed that Arizona is ready to lead in AI.”

Image licensed from ©Adobe Stock

WESTMARC

The co-founders agree that the AZ Venture of the Year Award helped Vox’s credibility with new clients and partners and opened doors to bigger opportunities.

“We’re building on that momentum by expanding into new industries, launching more AI solutions and growing our team,” Vega says.

As Vox continues to scale, Vega and Dangol have come full circle with Canyon Ventures and GCU.

“Thanks to the foundation of Canyon Ventures, we’ve been able to tap into amazing student talent from GCU, partner with other startups and connect with a strong network of local business leaders and investors,” Dangol says. “Canyon Ventures gives us more than just a place to work. It gives us momentum.”

In addition to Canyon Ventures, Grand Canyon University’s Colangelo College of Business — working in partnership with the City of Peoria — launched the GCU Entrepreneur Training Program, a free, four-month initiative designed to support startups and small businesses while driving economic development in Peoria, and this includes the tech sector.

“If there’s ever a time to be an entrepreneur, I believe now is the time,” says Robert Vera, founding director of

Canyon Ventures. “I think that it’s a really great time for the City of Peoria and for the country, so we’re really excited to be able to deliver this.”

Collaboration continues

Above and beyond cultivating new tech businesses and startups, collaborative efforts between cities and educational institutions are also bolstering the West Valley’s workforce pipeline.

“In a high-tech economy, workforce is infrastructure and Surprise is fully committed to developing a futureready talent pipeline,” Jerkovic says.

“We collaborate with key educational institutions like Ottawa University-Arizona (OUAZ), West-MEC, the Dysart Unified School District CTE programs and Estrella Mountain Community College to deliver responsive, employer-informed curricula in high-demand fields like cybersecurity, software engineering, robotics and applied technology.”

Surprise also has a CTE Competition Series with OUAZ, launched after successfully hosting the 2024 Future Business Leaders of America Region 4 Conference. In 2025, Surprise scaled the initiative to include Arizona HOSA (a global, student-led organization that focuses on empowering future

health professionals through education, collaboration and experience) and DECA (formerly Distributive Education Clubs of America), bringing more than 1,500 students from across the state to compete at the shared Surprise City Hall–OUAZ downtown campus.

“These immersive, career-based competitions aren’t just resume-builders; they’re gateways to real-world tech experience and employer engagement,” Jerkovic says.

Maricopa Community Colleges (MCC) has also partnered with heavy hitters such as Intel to develop an accelerated Semiconductor Technician Quick Start program, recognized as a national model for rapid workforce development.

What’s ahead for West Valley tech?

According to WESTMARC’s “West Valley Industry Growth Projection (2022 to 2030),” technology employment is poised to experience a 13% increase between 2022 and 2030. Education stakeholders and workforce development partners are ready and prepared to support the rapid growth taking place in the West Valley.

“Regional collaboration positions the West Valley as a credible and compelling destination for advanced industry growth,” Jerkovic concludes.

Suman Dangol Jeanine Jerkovic Weston Smith Kevin Vega Robert Vera

FROM CLASSROOMS TO CAREERS

The West Valley’s educational pathways connect students to careers and fuel the West Valley’s workforce needs

By ERIN THORBURN

The West Valley is a powerful example of how prioritizing educational pathways and continuity pays off, not only for students but also in sustaining the growing workforce needs of a rapidly expanding region. The Academies, designated as Arizona’s first Ford Next Generation Learning (Ford NGL) in February 2025, have been one of the most recent examples of how preparing a skilled workforce for high-demand, well-paying careers can be transformative for a region, resulting from regional educational alignment and collaboration.

Academies: Strengthening the bridge between high school and workforce

The Academies are part of the Agua Fria High School District’s (AFUHSD) 10-year strategic plan to enhance educational opportunities and better prepare students for future careers. This initiative ensures a tailored academic experience that prepares students for diverse futures — college, trade school, entrepreneurship, employment, military service or community service.

The West Valley is experiencing significant growth, with projections indicating that 40% of Maricopa County’s

population growth will occur in this area by 2030. As a result of this growth, major employers in sectors such as healthcare, manufacturing and technology are flocking to the region, with Tawain Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Factor — a ready-to-eat meal delivery service — as prime examples. These operations and others will employ thousands of workers. The challenge: Approximately 70% of the West Valley’s workforce still has to commute east to work.  Here’s where the Academies step in. “The designation and launch of the

MAKING THE GRADE: “In addition to traditional academic skills, our Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs emphasize durable skills development such as problem-solving, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity, as well as character skills like fortitude, growth mindset and leadership,” says Peoria Unified School District Superintendent Dr. KC Somers. “These skills will serve all Peoria Unified students well, regardless of what career pathway they choose.” (Photo provided by Peoria Unified School District)

Academies of the Southwest Valley are significant achievements for our community, reflecting our commitment to preparing a skilled workforce for high-demand, well-paying careers,” said Mark Yslas, superintendent of AFUHSD. “It underscores the District’s role in driving economic growth and improving the quality of life in our region. Our community can take great pride in this milestone, which marks a new era.”

In addition to ensuring that the West Valley’s workforce pipeline — a coordinated regional effort across K-12, community colleges, universities and industries to prepare students for future jobs — remains fueled for future needs, the Academies work to ensure that students have the guidance and support required to meet their specific postsecondary goals.

“Not every path leads to college, and that’s OK,” Yslas says. “Some students will enter the workforce right away, others will pursue trade programs, the military or start their own businesses. The Academies are designed to help them figure out what’s right for them, before they graduate.”

West-MEC: A pathway to career preparedness

The Academies and West-MEC share a vision: To provide students with real-world career learning and experiences to help set them up for success after high school. Whereas the Academies provide structured coursework and career exploration around themed pathways within each high school, West-MEC provides hands-on specialized training and credentials in fields such as welding, HVAC, healthcare, technology and more.

The collaboration between AFUHSD and West-MEC has removed several educational access barriers.

“One of the biggest obstacles for career and technical education (CTE) is transportation,” says Dr. Scott Spurgeon, superintendent of West-MEC. “The state doesn’t fund it, so students have to find their own way to and from our programs; some drive, some catch rides and others rely on public transportation.”

As fate would have it, five acres of land was available right behind Agua Fria High School.

“West-MEC purchased that land and this August, we’ll be opening the WestMEC Career Academy at Agua Fria,” Spurgeon says. “Now, students attending

Agua Fria High School who are accepted into a West-MEC program can just walk across the athletic fields to attend classes and return to campus with ease.”

The new site will host four high-demand programs: Electrical, HVAC, medium/ heavy diesel and welding.

“Each program leads to an industryrecognized credential, which means students can go straight into the workforce and start a strong career path right after graduation,” Spurgeon notes.

In tandem with collaborating with AFUHSD, West-MEC, under Spurgeon’s leadership, actively and continuously assesses the needs of incoming businesses to the West Valley. In doing so, curriculum pathways can be designed to help fulfill the demands of a future workforce and make sure students are career-ready when these businesses launch.

“This kind of collaboration doesn’t happen by accident,” Spurgeon says. “The West Valley is strategic and intentional about communicating across districts and organizations. We work as partners, not competitors.”

ASU West: Using interdisciplinary pathways to bolster the West Valley Pipeline

Arizona State University’s West Valley Campus (ASU West Valley) plays a pivotal

role in the West Valley Pipeline strategy and participates in WESTMARC’s Education & Workforce Development Committee, a coalition of educators, business leaders and government. Together, this group strengthens educational pathways from K-12 to CTE and higher education opportunities.

“Many are surprised to learn that hundreds of high school students already attend the West Valley campus,” says Todd R. Sandrin, vice provost of ASU West Valley. “The Gary K. Herberger Young Scholars Academy is a learning environment designed for highly gifted students in grades 7-12 located on ASU West Valley campus.”

Sandrin adds that ASU Prep Digital+ is an innovative hybrid program for students in grades 9–12, blending online learning with real-world experiences on campus to prepare for college and careers.

“These students spend one to three days on campus each week, learning from college faculty and earning college credit even before high school graduation,” he continues.

In response to the West Valley’s evolving workforce needs, ASU West Valley introduced three new schools in the past two years:

• The School of Integrated Engineering equips students with cross-disciplinary skills essential for emerging industries

GENERATION NEXT: Students hang out in the lounge area of the new Casa del Valle residence hall at the West Valley campus. (Photo by Samantha Chow, Arizona State University)

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such as microelectronics and advanced manufacturing.

• The School of Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (TIE) ties together business, tech and real-world problemsolving, offering degrees and initiatives like the SMB Lab to lift up local businesses and cultivate entrepreneurial talent.

• The School of Interdisciplinary Forensics — the first of its kind in the nation — prepares students to apply scientific and technical knowledge across justice, healthcare and public service sectors.

“Together, these schools ensure students are not only career-ready but positioned to lead in the industries shaping the West

HIGH-DEMAND PROGRAMS

Valley’s future,” Sandrin explains. “Interdisciplinary learning plays a critical role in preparing students for today’s and tomorrow’s job markets by equipping them with the versatility, problem-solving skills, and adaptability needed in an increasingly complex and interconnected world.”

Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC), a career and technical education public school district, announced their 2025-26 school year openings for high-opportunity programs. These programs focus on industries that have a low supply of skilled workers, but a high demand from employers including robotics, coding, pharmacy science, EMT and so much more.

ADVANCED MANUFACTURING: Offers a comprehensive curriculum covering 14 key standards while students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and work with advanced systems such as the Festo MecLab, AC/DC Trainers, Hydraulics & Pneumatics Training Systems and PLC Training Systems.

AUTOMATION & ROBOTIC SYSTEMS: Equips students with the fundamental engineering principles and technical skills necessary for managing industrial automation control systems and technologies, mainly focusing on integrating artificial intelligence in the control of machines within manufacturing processes.

CODING: Interactive program that teaches students how to design and develop software, build apps for phones, tablets, websites, and write and test computer code.

PRECISION MACHINING: A two-year program allowing students to gain insight on the select tools and materials needed to make durable goods, read blueprints, comprehend CNC theory and procedures, utilize machine shop math, etc.

COLLISION REPAIR & REFINISHING: Hands-on repair program teaching metal work, basic painting and color matching, cost estimation, industry safety protocol, structural analysis, computer diagnostic systems and welding in collision repair.

ELECTRICAL TRADE SPECIALTY: Introduces students to the basic elements of electrical systems, allowing them to analyze construction drawings, perform maintenance on electrical circuits, work with control systems, install lighting and motors.

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY: Consists of first-response care, CPR, measuring vital signs, bandaging and other life-saving procedures.

WATER SYSTEMS: Exposes students to real-world situations and current challenges related to clean and abundant water supply, efficient wastewater treatment and management, and general environmental concerns.

IT SECURITY: Focuses on the foundational principles of securing computer networks and managing risk while training students on managing networks, ethical hacking defense, troubleshooting Linux OS and mitigating security risks.

LAW & PUBLIC SAFETY: Offers training in basic skills used in patrol functions, defensive tactics, use of force and first aid. Students will learn constitutional law, forensic science, first aid / CPR and more.

PHARMACY SCIENCE: Teaches students the delivery of pharmaceutical services alongside licensed pharmacists in a pharmacy setting.

POWERSPORTS TECHNOLOGY: Prepares students with technical skills to service, maintain and diagnose powersport vehicles, such as motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s), utility terrain vehicles (UTV’s) and personal watercraft.

Todd R. Sandrin Dr. Scott Spurgeon Mark Yslas

FUTURE-READY: HOW WEST-MEC KEEPS PACE WITH INDUSTRY INNOVATION

Western Maricopa Education Center (West-MEC) is a career and technical education school district in the West Valley. West-MEC serves over 45,000 students each year through its central and satellite programs. It has four campuses where its central programs are located. The campuses are in Buckeye, Surprise, Glendale and North Phoenix. West-MEC is building its fifth and largest campus, which is in phase one of its development, and will be located in Glendale on Thomas and the Loop 101.

In career and technical education, staying on top of current industry trends is essential. West-MEC prides itself on staying current with its curriculum. It is more important than ever for West-MEC, especially when it comes to the amount of industry flocking to the West Valley, some even calling the West Valley and Phoenix the “Silicon Desert.”

To help meet local industry needs, WestMEC has created multiple new programs in recent years, tailored curriculum in others, and added more locations for some of the most “in-demand” programs.

For example, West-MEC is adding an Advanced Manufacturing program at its Northeast Campus this Fall to help meet the needs of local manufacturing entities in the West Valley. Some of the companies the district has collaborated with to build this program include Gatorade, Amkor, Nestle and more.

West-MEC also added Cloud Technology and Automation & Robotics Systems programs this past year to help accommodate the needs of Amazon and TSMC, respectively. West-MEC is also adding welding to three new locations this Fall to keep up with the immense demand for welders.

As a result of this industry-focused approach, West-MEC students earned over 7,000 credentials last year, which are clear indicators of career readiness that employers recognize.

In a recent employer survey, 97% of employers stated that West-MEC students met or exceeded expectations for entrylevel new hires. The same percentage also said that West-MEC students met or exceeded professional expectations for

communication, teamwork, attendance and work ethic, rating teamwork and communication as highly valued professional skills.

A few more projects that West-MEC is working on, such as the Career Academy in conjunction with the Agua Fria Unified School District and the skilled education center in Peoria, will help bolster WestMEC’s footprint and give as many students as possible the opportunity to gain skills that are needed in the workforce. The Career Academy is innovative in that it is located near the transportation corridor on I-10 to work closer to companies and establish a talent pipeline to these industries.

These are just some of the ways WestMEC stays agile in responding to the evolving demands of local and incoming industries. By doing so, students gain access to the latest knowledge, hands-on skills, and valuable industry connections that align directly with their chosen programs. This translates to a faster way forward into the workforce for students pursuing their professional goals.

Driving the future forward

Strategic infrastructure, transportation upgrades and smart planning are accelerating West Valley communities into a high-growth future

BOOMING REGION: Village at Prasada serves as the retail centerpiece of a massive 3,355-acre master-planned community, with homes, parks, schools and job centers. (Photo provided by SimonCRE)

By ERIN THORBURN

Anyone who’s played Jenga knows that one shaky or misplaced wooden block can send a tower tumbling down. The right pieces in optimal places, however, can build solid, high-reaching structures. The West Valley has long recognized and prepared for exponential growth throughout the region. Much like players in a Jenga game, infrastructure, transportation and housing must all work in tandem to support expansion, and West Valley leadership is playing a steady game.

All roads lead to Prop 479

“Roads? Where we’re going, we don’t need roads” is one of the most well-known Doc Brown quotes from “Back to the Future,” but it doesn’t ring true for the West Valley (at least not anytime soon).

According to Maricopa Association of

Governments (MAG) projections, the West Valley’s population is expected to surge past 2 million residents by 2030. That’s a lot of drivers in need of many roads leading to and from the new housing and employment developments occurring throughout the West Valley.

Enter Prop 479, the continuation of an existing, dedicated half-cent sales tax in Maricopa County to fund transportation.

“Proposition 479 is going to have a tremendous impact, not just for Surprise, but for the entire West Valley,” says Kevin Sartor, mayor of Surprise. “There’s so much growth happening out here, and infrastructure has to keep up.”

When compared to a 2050 no-build scenario, the transportation improvements included in the Prop 479 investment plan are projected to offer multiple benefits,

including reducing average daily traffic delays by more than 51,000 person-hours across key corridors, according to MAG.

“One of the biggest regional benefits is State Route 30,” Sartor says. “Even though it’s not in Surprise, SR 30 will help a lot of our residents who commute east to Phoenix or downtown by relieving pressure on the I-10 and improving overall traffic flow. It’s a big deal for quality of life.”

Beyond providing freeway relief, Prop 479 investments include strategic interchange upgrades, arterial street improvements and expanded transit options.

“If we’re talking about Surprise specifically, one of our top priorities is the US 60 and Loop 303 interchange,” Sartor explains. “Our city’s growth is happening in the north and west. Right now, there’s

WESTMARC

only one main road — 163rd Avenue — serving those areas. Proposition 479 helps us fund key upgrades like a grade separation at 163rd and US 60 (so drivers aren’t stuck waiting on train traffic) and a new interchange at 155th Avenue and Loop 303.”

TSMC impact

Infrastructure investment is vital when companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) land in the West Valley, bringing in thousands of new employment opportunities — in the case of TSMC, 6,000 direct, high-tech jobs.

“TSMC has created a new orbit for employers, developers and the entire manufacturing ecosystem,” says Jason Morris, founding partner of Withey Morris Baugh.

Of course, part of the semiconductor manufacturing giant’s “orbit” includes Halo Vista. The self-contained $7 billion community, anchored by TSMC’s $165 billion investment, has been described

as a “city within a city” and is expected to support up to 70,000 jobs over time through direct employment and related development in the surrounding area.

“Halo Vista is blessed with a blank canvas, but also with the incredible momentum provided by TSMC,” Morris says. “Just as TSMC represents the future of manufacturing, Halo Vista is looking at every aspect of its development as an opportunity to be cutting edge. This innovation starts with the infrastructure and includes every aspect of the master

plan — from the water and sewer to the roadways, buildings and the end-users.”

As for Halo Vista’s relationship to West Valley’s infrastructure and transportation corridors, once State Route 30 (under Prop 479 funding) is built, it will link Loop 303 to Loop 202, offering more direct routes and freeing up driver dependency on the I-10.

In Surprise, Mayor Sartor’s mention of prioritizing US 60 and Loop 303 interchange focuses on accessibility to and from one of its city epicenters: Village at Prasada. Prasada serves as the retail centerpiece of a massive 3,355-acre master-planned community, with homes, parks, schools and job centers.

“The Loop 303 was a huge catalyst in shaping Surprise into what it is today,” Sartor explains. “While other cities along the corridor built out with logistics and warehouse space, Surprise focused on retail, restaurants and places for people to gather. Prasada is now the number one power center in Arizona, and it’s not just serving Surprise, it’s a regional draw.”

Tolleson’s T-Town Trolley: Microtransit in action

Microtransit is a cost-effective mode of transportation that doesn’t require a heavy infrastructure lift. Additional benefits: it’s scalable, flexible and equitable, well-suited for rapidly growing regions — like the West Valley. MicroTolleson launched its microtransit service on October 1, 2022, transitioning from Valley Metro’s Zoom bus service to rideshare-based transportation using Uber and Lyft.

HOW IT WORKS: On-demand, app-based rides within Tolleson city limits.

LOW FARES: A $2 base fare, with the city subsidizing up to $15 per ride (riders only pay the remainder).

FREQUENT EVALUATION: Service zones, fares and destinations are reviewed regularly to ensure responsiveness to local needs.

TAKEAWAY: Microtransit programs such as Tolleson’s T-Town Trolley act as a bridge to long-term infrastructure planning, filling gaps during transportation improvements (e.g., SR30 and Loop 303). They’re particularly effective in lower-density areas that may be underserved or unavailable by buses or light rail options. Plus, microtransit serves as a go-between for park-and-rides, bus hubs or even future light rail stops, improving access in sprawling suburban settings.

Kevin Sartor

Jason Morris

SUPER-SIZED TOURISM

Thanks to mega-events, rural charm and regional collaboration, tourism in the West Valley is thriving year-round

By ERIN THORBURN

Meals and drinks can be supersized, so why not tourism regions? The Phoenix-metro area welcomed 46.7 million visitors in 2023, a 4.7% increase from the previous year, and the West Valley played a major part in attracting those visitors. State Farm Stadium, Desert Diamond Arena, Phoenix Raceway and other venues throughout the West Valley have contributed to super-sized tourism and economic impact throughout the West Valley — and there’s no sign of stopping.

Sports and spectacle: Super Bowl, spring training and Swifties Sports venues in the West Valley are popping up faster than gophers on a golf course (and the region has plenty of those, too — golf courses, not gophers). The thing about these venues is that while they house some of Arizona’s most beloved teams, these stadiums, fields and casinos also bring in huge headliners like Taylor Swift, The Weeknd and Post Malone (with more big names to come).

“There’s been a clear shift in demand toward multi-purpose venues that can accommodate a variety of year-round events, from professional sports and concerts to cultural festivals and corporate gatherings,” says Ron Price, president and CEO of Visit Phoenix. “The West Valley is uniquely positioned to meet this trend. State Farm Stadium has demonstrated its ability to seamlessly host everything from NFL games to major concerts and even Super Bowls.”

Spring training is another top tourist attraction for the West Valley. Collectively, the Cactus League generated $710 million in total economic impact in Arizona from the 2023 season, according to Arizona State University’s Seidman Institute.

“Over the past 25 years, the West Valley has become home to nine of the 15 Major League Baseball teams that play in the Valley,” says Sintra Hoffman, president and CEO of WESTMARC. “One of those teams has made it to World Series eight times in the past 10 years.”

DRIVING TOURISM: Ryan Blaney, driver of the No. 12 Menards/Dutch Boy Ford, celebrates in victory lane after winning the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series Championship at Phoenix Raceway in Avondale. (Photo by Jared C. Tilton, Getty Images, courtesy of Visit Phoenix)

Sintra Hoffman Ron Price

BG Bratcher

Tomorrow’s Healthcare Team

Biomedical Sciences

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Dental Medicine

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Nursing Practice

Occupational Therapy

Optometry

Osteopathic Medicine

Pharmacy

Physical Therapy

Physician Assistant

Podiatric Medicine

Precision Medicine

Public Health

Speech-Language Pathology

Veterinary Medicine

Downers Grove Campus

555 31st Street, Downers Grove, Illinois

630-515-7200 | admissil@midwestern.edu

Glendale Campus

19555 N. 59th Avenue, Glendale, Arizona

623-572-3215 | admissaz@midwestern.edu

WESTMARC

Desert Diamond Arena, once home to the Arizona Coyotes, quickly pivoted upon the team’s departure, thanks to swift leadership. Immediately, they increased concerts and private events. Now, the arena is home to the Arizona Rattlers indoor football team.

In Peoria, the Peoria Sports Complex is now the official home of Desert Dreams F.C., Arizona’s first women’s professional soccer team.

“The recent announcement that Surprise Stadium will host the Big 12 Baseball Championships is yet another testament to the West Valley’s readiness and capability to host high-profile events,” Price says.

Phoenix Raceway draws visitors near and far. Non-locals account for 60-71% of raceway ticket buyers, and according to WESTMARC, spend an average of $452 per day during their visit.

Visit Phoenix is committed to a collaborative and inclusive approach to destination marketing that highlights the unique character of each community.

— Ron Price

Regional collaboration: Making tourism a shared success

Creating a robust entertainment ecosystem has been part of what has helped shape the West Valley as a tourism destination. A dedication to building “the total visitor experience” has remained at the forefront of collaborative regional tourism efforts.

“Visit Phoenix is committed to a collaborative and inclusive approach to destination marketing that highlights the unique character of each community,” Price explains. “Glendale, Avondale and Surprise each offer distinct experiences that enrich the visitor experience. Our role is to amplify these local stories on a regional and national scale.”

Price adds that success has come from partnering closely with local tourism and city partners to spotlight events, attractions and new developments across Visit Phoenix’s media outreach, travel trade efforts, convention sales and digital marketing channels.

WESTMARC also takes great measures to secure and foster tourism partnerships. The $1 billion VAI Resort and Mattel Theme Park in Glendale, for example, has been heavily promoted by WESTMARC and aligned stakeholders. This type of attention elevates the region’s tourism profile and capacity significantly.

Among its many other target tourism efforts, again looking holistically at the entertainment ecosystem, is highlighting the supporting developments surrounding major venues. This

WESTMARC

includes Topgolf, Andretti Karting, Avondale’s global cuisine (with more than 12 different countries represented), Lake Pleasant as a premier aquatic destination and more.

“The West Valley’s tourism scene has something for everyone,” Hoffman says. “Whether you’re looking for sports, concerts, outdoor recreation, water sports, family events or unique restaurants, the West Valley has it all.”

Rural charm and heritage

Californians often say how they appreciate being able to shift between beach, mountains and forest — all in a matter of a short drive. The West Valley offers a similar advantage in that someone can attend a headliner show at State Farm Stadium and take a little over an hour drive to Wickenburg for a taste of authentic western culture.

“We are known for our team roping competitions and cowboy heritage, which draws thousands of visitors every year, especially during the winter season,” says BG Bratcher, mayor of Wickenburg. “There are also several other equestrian events such as barrel racing, cutting, penning and trail riding.”

Added to its rustic charm, Wickenburg is recognized for its award-winning world-class Desert Caballeros Western Museum and the state-of-the-art 600-seat Del E. Webb Center for the Performing Arts.

“Just a few miles from Wickenburg is Vulture City, the most unique and authentically restored ghost town that was once a thriving mining town,” Bracher says. “Down the road is Maricopa

County’s Vulture Mountains Recreation Area (phases II and III are in progress).”

Bracher stresses how rural and heritage tourism is more important than ever. “Big-city events are great, but not every traveler wants only fast-paced experiences,” she says. “Many people also look for authenticity. They want to slow down, connect with local culture and have memorable experiences.”

Future West Valley tourism outlook

One good challenge for any growing tourism epicenter to have is an overabundance of visitors and not enough places for them to stay — a scenario in which the West Valley currently faces.

“While visitor counts are in the millions, our resort rooms are not yet keeping pace,” Hoffman says. “There has been increasing investment in brand properties locating in or around entertainment centers in recent years; however, the VAI Resort with 1,100 hotel rooms and onsite restaurants and entertainment will be a game-changer for the West Valley’s tourism scene.”

Even though it may take time to produce beds for heads, the West Valley has shown that patience, backed by persistence, always pays off.

“Given our year-round tourism activities, ranging from hiking, biking, horse riding, golfing, plus five different kinds of professional sports, the West Valley is definitely positioned to host visitors all 12 months of the year,” Hoffman says. “We have beautiful mountain ranges to host large-scale resorts, but need investors with our vision.”

ROOMS TO GROW: WEST VALLEY

TOURISM

Here are some of the West Valley hotel construction projects expected to wrap up in the next 12 months:

BILLION-DOLLAR GEM: The $1 billion VAI Resort and Mattel Theme Park in Glendale, which is scheduled to open in December, has been heavily promoted by WESTMARC and aligned stakeholders. (Photo provided by VAI Resort)

JULY 2025

Fairfield Surprise Prasada

13430 N. 163rd Dr., 60 rooms

JULY 2025

TownePlace Suites Surprise Prasada

13430 N. 163rd Dr., 50 rooms

AUGUST 2025

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Phx

9050 W. McDowell Rd., 95 rooms

SEPTEMBER 2025

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Surprise

16840 N. Civic Center Dr., 106 rooms

DECEMBER 2025

VAI Resort

9601 W. Cardinals Way, 1,100 rooms

JANUARY 2026

Home2 Suites by Hilton Goodyear Phoenix West 1950 N. Litchfield Rd., 112 rooms

JANUARY 2026

LivAway Suites Tolleson Interstate 10 and 91st Avenue, 126 rooms

FEBRUARY 2026

LivAway Suites Glendale 9930 W. Desert River Blvd., 126 rooms

MARCH 2026

LivAway Suites Surprise

14020 W. Mountain View Blvd., 126 rooms

APRIL 2026

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Buckeye Verrado Way, 108 rooms

MAY 2026

Home2 Suites by Hilton Peoria North Phoenix W. Jomax Rd. and N. Lake Pleasant Pkwy., 103 rooms

GROWTH MEETS UNCERTAINTY

Arizona’s housing market is defined by cautious optimism and complex realities in 2025

By LUX BUTLER

If Arizona’s residential real estate market had a crystal ball, its forecast would read: “cautious optimism.”

Experts across the housing industry, from builders to bankers, forecast a 2% to 5% increase in existing home sales, even as the country deals with economic uncertainty. Median home prices are expected to stay relatively stable, supported by rising inventory, strong in-migration and job growth, especially in the Metro Phoenix area,

which is widely expected to be one of the top 10 housing markets in the U.S. this year.

Underlying those hopeful projections are complex realities: Affordability pressures, mortgage rate volatility and policy questions continue to shape buyer behavior and development strategies.

To better understand the landscape, Az Business spoke with homebuilders, brokers, mortgage lenders, title professionals and real estate attorneys who offer a

comprehensive look at what’s happening in Arizona housing and what’s coming next.

A shifting mindset

Despite the sometimes bleak headlines, many Arizona real estate professionals say the local market is far from stagnant.

“The headlines scream doom and gloom, but it’s busy, we’re working hard,” says Mike Zschunke, a real estate broker and agent in the Phoenix area who primarily handles

high-end properties in North Scottsdale.

“Sellers think it’s 2021 and buyers think it’s 2008. Getting everybody on the same page is the hard part,” he says.

While the frenzied bidding wars of the pandemic era have cooled, demand hasn’t disappeared. For Zschunke, business continues as usual.

“I wrote four offers last week,” he says. “One was on a $6 million listing, we came in closer to $5 million based on comps.

But the seller didn’t need to sell, so they wouldn’t budge.”

Buyers are adjusting to higher interest rates with more confidence than expected. For serious house-hunters, 6% is no longer a deal-breaker.

“They know if rates come down, prices will just go up,” Zschunke adds.

That sentiment is echoed by experts on the lending side. David Hyde, vice president and senior home loan manager at BOK

Financial Mortgage, says rates are hovering between 6% and 7%, but qualified buyers are still moving forward.

“If you can afford to buy, nows probably a good time,” Hyde says.

Pending home sales rose 6% in March and April and while inventory is ticking upward, it’s still falling short in highdemand neighborhoods.

“We’re seeing more homes come to market,” Zschunke notes, “but we’re not where we need to be.”

Demand drivers: Why people are still buying

Phoenix continues to be a magnet for new residents and investors.

“I’m cautiously optimistic, quite honestly,” says Brad Schoenberg, division president at Taylor Morrison. “In the great state of Arizona, we don’t have hurricanes, we don’t have earthquakes, we still have great migration from feeder states from around the country, we are still relatively affordable when you compare us to competing markets, whether that is other markets in the Southwest or if you stretch into Denver and definitely when you stretch back over to California.”

A key driver is economic diversity. “We’re not just about construction anymore. We’ve got tech, biosciences and manufacturing, especially with the TSMC chip plant in the North Valley and Intel in the South Valley. That’s drawing high-wage workers who want to live close to where they work,” Schoenberg explains.

The U.S. Census Bureau supports Schoenberg’s observations: Phoenix has been a hot spot for growth over the past decade. Between 2020 and 2024, the city has seen a 4% increase in population.

Rising household incomes has also expanded opportunities for buyers in the Phoenix area. Schoenberg notes that the median household income in the metro region reaches approximately $90,000.

“Phoenix is a growing market,” says Derrick Barker, CEO of Nectar. “The inmigration and job growth make this one of the top places to deploy capital.”

CAUTIOUS HOUSING OPTIMISM: Arizona’s residential real estate market shows cautious optimism, with modest sales growth and stable prices expected despite underlying challenges like affordability, mortgage volatility, and policy shifts—according to industry experts across the housing landscape. (Photo provided by Visit Phoenix)

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COMMUNITY EMERGES: Floreo Community Center will be where Teravalis, a massive 33,800-acre master-planned community currently under construction in Buckeye, comes together. Opening in 2026, Floreo Community Center will be the place where residents and neighbors can meet and share interests. (Rendering provided by Howard Hughes)

Buyer behavior

Buyer psychology has shifted since the pandemic and the market reflects that, experts say.

“Sellers don’t need to sell and a lot of buyers don’t need to buy,” Zschunke says. “Many are moving up or down, but they’re comfortable where they are.”

It’s an attitude shaped by what many now call mortgage lock-in. About 60% of homeowners have a mortgage rate under 6%, creating a sense of being stuck, yet not entirely without options.

“They feel trapped,” Zschunke says, “but many have enough equity to move if they want to. They just need someone to show them how.”

The profile of the first-time buyer has changed as well. Twenty years ago, the average first-time buyer was around 30 years old, today many are closer to 40. With that shift comes more income, more stable careers and often financial support from family, giving them a different set of expectations and pressures than previous generations. Even in the luxury market, caution is becoming the norm.

“A lot of people buying large homes are coming in with huge down payments,” Hyde says. “It’s a shift we didn’t see as much before and it shows how people are

thinking more conservatively, even at the high end.”

While affordability remains a growing concern, it hasn’t shaken residents’ loyalty to Arizona. According to new data from BMO’s Real Financial Progress Index, only 49% of Arizonans say they’d consider leaving the state to afford a home, meaning more than half would rather weather higher costs for the lifestyle, opportunity and identity the state continues to offer.

Affordability and inventory

If there’s one issue that unites residential real estate professionals, it’s affordability.

“Affordability and consumer confidence are what keep me up at night,” Schoenberg says. “There’s a lot of supply pressure. We still don’t have enough affordable homes for the people who want them.”

Although Phoenix is seeing a wave of new construction, the benefits aren’t being felt evenly across the market. Barker notes that a large number of new units are coming online this year, potentially hitting a peak. Despite the influx, financing remains a challenge. Lenders are tightening up and properties with solid fundamentals are struggling, not because they’re flawed, but because of bad timing.

“Liquidity is down,” Schoenberg explains.

“There are great properties facing distress simply due to timing.”

That disconnect creates opportunities for some investors, but also hardship for others.

“We’re investing alongside developers who have solid assets but can’t get the financing they need,” he continues.

For homeowners, many choose to renovate rather than relocate.

“Home equity loans are up,” Hyde says. “People are adding pools, updating kitchens, turning 20-year-old homes into more modern spaces. It’s often easier than buying something new at today’s prices.”

Financing and lending: A shift toward readiness

While financing is still accessible, the process is more difficult than it used to be.

“Pre-approval is the new standard,” Hyde says. “We used to do pre-qualifications over the phone. Now we’re reviewing credit, income and assets up front, so the only thing missing is the house.”

In a competitive market with limited inventory, buyers need every advantage.

“It’s the difference between closing in two weeks versus 45 days,” he adds. “That timeline can be critical when multiple offers are on the table.”

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Lenders are no longer willing to take chances on incomplete applications or vague financials. That helps both buyers and sellers avoid surprises during escrow.

Despite recent bank consolidations, financing remains steady.

“The lending industry is strong,” Hyde says. “We’re ready to lend, but buyers need to be prepared.”

Preparation now means more than just having a good credit score. It includes having documentation ready, understanding one’s budget clearly and being realistic about long-term affordability. Those who show up informed are the ones receiving the house keys.

Where builders are betting

With buyers focused on value and proximity to jobs, developers are taking a strategic approach to growth.

“We’re following infrastructure,” Schoenberg says. “Loops 101, 202, 303, those investments made growth possible in all directions.”

The north side of Phoenix draws extra interest due to its strong schools and job opportunities. However, development there comes with unique challenges.

“We like the north side, but much of the land is held by the state and has to go through the auction process,” Schoenberg says.

He adds that water access is another critical factor influencing where growth can occur. Cities with designated water providers are positioned to expand more easily than those relying on groundwater.

Developers are diversifying their focus

as well, building for a wide range of buyers, from first-time homeowners to retirees.

“We serve everyone from the starter home market to age-qualified communities,” Schoenberg says. “That flexibility helps us ride out any demand shifts.”

Legal and regulatory environment

For now, Arizona’s legal and regulatory environment feels stable, though industry insiders remain vigilant. Casey Blais, a real estate attorney and partner at Burch & Cracchiolo, describes the landscape as steady with no major shifts looming, at least for traditional residential and commercial real estate.

“That said, affordable housing could be a game-changer,” Blais notes. “Tax incentives for converting commercial properties into residential units are one area where we might see creative solutions emerge.”

Concerns about lease and loan defaults are also on the radar.

“While we’re not seeing anything close to the stress levels during the pandemic, there’s cautious monitoring. The market’s unpredictable, so everyone stays alert,” Blais continues.

Local governments could introduce zoning changes or new policies as they grapple with growing housing demand. Industry players actively engage with lawmakers, aiming to strike a balance between encouraging development and maintaining community stability.

In short, the legal climate is calm but watchful, like a reflection of the market itself.

2025 outlook

When analyzing the state of the market in 2025, Zschunke puts it plainly:

“Uncertainty is always there. But buyers aren’t scared off by 6% mortgage rates anymore. They’re informed and ready.”

Schoenberg, the builder, agrees:

“We’ve had some unpredictable years. Now, things are settling into a new normal, and that’s healthy.”

Hyde offers another perspective:

“There are pockets of struggle, including some pre-foreclosures. But those realities create opportunities, too. Staying realistic is key.”

Barker, the investor, sums it like this:

“There’s always business to be done. We’re focused on solid assets and long-term partnerships. For those willing to play the long game, Phoenix remains a smart bet.”

As the rest of the year unfolds, Valley residents can be certain that the housing market isn’t crashing — it’s recalibrating. As prices stabilize, inventory will gradually improve and buyers continue to adjust to a more measured financial landscape. The frantic pace of recent years has softened, but activity continues, especially from wellprepared, intentional buyers.

Phoenix’s appeal continues to grow, fueled by diverse job growth, quality of life and steady in-migration. Yet, challenges like affordability, policy uncertainty and equity gaps still cloud the future.

“We’re bullish on Phoenix, but we’re also pragmatic,” Schoenberg says. “The fundamentals are strong. It’s about patience and perseverance.”

Mike Zschunke

Brad Schoenberg

David Hyde

Casey Blais

Derrick Barker