Thoughts from Dawn Wallace
April is National Poetry Month, a perfect reminder that words—when chosen with care—can move people, change minds, and bring meaning to complexity. I’ve always believed that strong leadership, like good poetry, begins with listening. The best leaders are attuned to the world around them, noticing the quiet details, embracing nuance, and bringing clarity to challenging conversations. They don’t just inform, they connect. And in that connection, they create a civic rhythm that helps communities move forward together.
In many ways, leadership is its own form of poetry. It challenges us to find patterns in the chaos, to communicate with intention, and to build understanding across difference. That’s the kind of leadership we strive to cultivate through the Flinn-Brown Fellowship—leaders who don’t just speak, but elevate; who don’t just solve problems, but shape meaning.
Every time I connect with a Fellow—at an event, over coffee or lunch, or while reading their application essays—I’m struck by the stories they carry and the way they share them. Some express their leadership through the precision of policy, others through the art of collaboration. Each brings a cadence uniquely their own, shaping Arizona’s civic fabric with insight, intention, and heart.
This month, I invite you to think about the poetry of your own leadership. Where do you find inspiration? What words shape your decisions? How do you choose to be heard?
In honor of National Poetry Month, I leave you with a haiku—a short poetic form that reflects the brevity and depth I so often witness in our network:
Bold minds, desert-grown—
bridging voices, rising strong.
Fellows lead with heart.
P.S. If you’re feeling inspired, I encourage you to write your own civic haiku and share it with our team. We’d love to feature a few in next month’s newsletter!
Southern Arizona Fellows Needed!
The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona (CFSA) has launched a new research initiative to better understand how young professionals in Southern Arizona engage with board service and philanthropy. This study, conducted in partnership with Bynes Consulting, explores the interests, barriers, and motivations of individuals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s. CFSA plans to share the findings broadly to benefit nonprofits and donors seeking to cultivate the next generation of civic and philanthropic leaders.
As part of the research, CFSA is seeking participants for stakeholder interviews and focus groups in Tucson. They’re especially interested in connecting with Flinn-Brown Fellows in Southern Arizona who may be currently involved in, or curious about, board service or philanthropy. The stakeholder interview involves a one-on-one conversation with a researcher, while the focus groups will be organized by decade (20s, 30s, 40s) and held at CFSA’s campus at 5049 E. Broadway Blvd., Tucson AZ 85711, from May 9-12. Learn more about this opportunity here.
For more information, please email [email protected].
Support Your Fellow Civic Champions
Seven Arizonans will be recognized at the 2025 Civic Champion Dinner on May 6 for their work to strengthen civic trust and bridge political divides across the state. Hosted by the Arizona Democracy Resilience Network and Mormon Women for Ethical Government Arizona, the event honors leaders advancing election integrity, youth engagement, civil rights, and media literacy. Flinn-Brown Fellows Adam Goodman (Paradise Valley, 2023) and Carlos Alfaro (Phoenix, 2024) are among the honorees. The dinner will take place at the Phoenix Country Club and brings together community, business, and civic leaders committed to democratic resilience. Register at: bit.ly/azcivicchampion.
Best, Dawn
Fellows Spotlight
Jamie Festa-Daigle
2023 Flinn-Brown Fellow
Director of Student Achievement
Lake Havasu Unified School District
After more than two decades in Lake Havasu City, Jaime Festa-Daigle is bringing her deep-rooted passion for public education and civic engagement to northern Arizona.
A lifelong Arizonan, Festa-Daigle began her education career in Phoenix, teaching American history to students who were new to the United States. Many were English language learners, recently immigrated from countries including Mexico, Sudan, and Bosnia—an experience that would shape the arc of her career.
“Helping young people understand the U.S.—not just academically but civically—has always been central to my work,” she said.
Throughout her career, Festa-Daigle taught government and economics, weaving civic understanding and decision-making into every lesson. As both a teacher and administrator, she consistently emphasized the role of education in preparing students to be thoughtful, engaged citizens.
“Education isn’t just about facts. It’s about helping students become thoughtful citizens,” she said.
Until recently, Festa-Daigle served as Director of Student Achievement for the Lake Havasu Unified School District, where she led strategic planning, oversaw student support services, mentored new educators, and cultivated leadership pathways for aspiring administrators. A former president of Arizona ASCD, she was named the organization’s Outstanding Educational Leader in 2019.
A member of the 2023 cohort, she joined the Flinn-Brown Fellowship in search of broader engagement. “I’ve always worked with educators,” she said. “Flinn-Brown gave me the chance to connect with leaders outside of education— people shaping Arizona’s future in every sector.”
The experience shifted her perspective, especially on Arizona’s natural resources and regional diversity. She recalls Water Day at the Flinn-Brown Academy as particularly impactful.
“I’m a lake person now, but learning how water decisions affect every corner of the state—from farming in La Paz County to the forests around Flagstaff—really stayed with me.”
Now based in Flagstaff, Festa-Daigle is embracing new ways to contribute. As recent empty nesters, she and her husband are enjoying more flexibility—and time with their beloved pugs. An avid reader, she recommends The Chaos Machine and The Anxious Generation for anyone exploring the effects of social media on youth.
Asked what she values most in a community, she points to cooperation.
“Whether it’s education, housing, or health care—none of it happens in isolation,” she said. “It takes public-private partnerships, trust, and communication to make things work.”
That belief is at the heart of everything she does. As she continues her work in Flagstaff and beyond, Festa-Daigle remains committed to building strong relationships, listening across differences, and shaping systems that better support Arizona’s young people.
If you missed a Fellows Spotlight, you can find them here.
2025 Flinn-Brown Convention
We are excited to share that the 2025 Flinn-Brown Convention will be held on Friday, Aug. 15, at On Jackson, 245 E. Jackson St., in Phoenix.
The Fellows Planning Committee has been hard at work developing the program for the Convention. Here are some highlights:
- Pre-Convention Reception on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 5:30-8 p.m. at the FOUND:RE Hotel. We will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the 2015 cohort and present our Arizona Champion Awards.
- Morning yoga at the Flinn Foundation on Friday, Aug. 15, hosted by Sarah Rose Webber (Phoenix, 2017).
- We have secured a block of rooms at the FOUND:RE for out-of-town Fellows or local Fellows who attend the reception and want to shorten their commute on Convention Day. To book a room at the Flinn-Brown Convention exclusive rate ($119/night plus taxes and fees), visit foundrehotels.com and use the corporate code FLINN.
- Invitations are scheduled to land in your inbox on May 6, along with the link to nominate Fellows for the 2025 Flinn-Brown Awards.
If you have any questions, please let Dawn or Jennifer know.
Leadership Forward – For A Better Arizona Podcast
Patrick Tighe, J.D. and The Honorable Christopher Glover: Episode 16
In the April episode, the Honorable Christopher Glover (Mesa, 2016) and Patrick Tighe, J.D., (Phoenix, 2019) discuss their roles as board members for the Keys to Change Campus, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals experiencing homelessness in Maricopa County. Glover, a former Mesa City Councilman, and Tighe, an attorney with Snell & Wilmer, also share how their broader civic engagement in Arizona—and their experiences with the Flinn-Brown Fellows—have shaped them into leaders driving effective community transformation.
Listen to any of our previous podcasts on our YouTube channel, Apple Podcast or any of the platforms below. The podcasts, including a summary, are also available on our website.
CIVEX
Thank you to Flinn-Brown Fellows Rep. Matt Gress (Phoenix, 2015), Rep. Kevin Volk (Tucson, 2022), Ben Henderson (Phoenix, 2014), and Fletcher Montzingo (Phoenix, 2017) who offered valuable insights on Arizona’s state budget and economic outlook at our CivEx on April 9.
Special thanks as well to Fellows in attendance—Marge Zylla (Tempe, 2017), Katelyn Harris Lange (Phoenix, 2020), Rebecca Perrera (Laveen, 2020), Illya Riske (Phoenix, 2014), Judah Waxelbaum (Scottsdale, 2024), Ben Blink (Phoenix, 2018), Bridget Fitzgibbons (Mesa, 2024), Trista Guzman Glover (Mesa, 2019) and Kathryn Leonard (Phoenix, 2016).
If you have an idea for a CivEx webinar that you would like to host or a topic you would like to learn more about, contact Dawn.
If you have an idea for a CivEx webinar that you would like to host or a topic you would like to learn more about, contact Dawn.
Fellows Meet Fellows
Yuma Fellows Buna George (2023), the Honorable Russ McCloud (2018), and Rodney Short, J.D. (2024) found the ubiquitous Honorable Kevin Hartke (Chandler, 2014) at the Yuma State of the City address.
Russ Yelton (Phoenix, 2012), Kathryn Leonard (Phoenix, 2016), the Honorable Ruth Ellen Elinski (Cottonwood, 2014), the Honorable Coral Evans (Flagstaff, 2011), and the Honorable Tim Elinski (Cottonwood, 2013) attended the first-ever Arizona Sustainable Economic Development Learning Lab at the Flinn Foundation.
The Honorable Fernando Shipley (Globe, 2011) and Katelyn Harris Lange (Phoenix, 2020) attended the Arizona Commission on the Arts reception in Globe.
The Honorable Julie Spilsbury (Mesa, 2023) and Nate Rhoton (Phoenix, 2015), looking fresh at the One N Ten Fresh Brunch.
Charlinda Haudley, Ph.D. (Tucson, 2022), the Honorable Mila Besich (Superior, 2019), the Honorable Ben Graff, J.D. (Phoenix, 2011), the Honorable Matt Herman (Casa Grande, 2019), the Honorable Alexandra Arboleda, J.D. (Phoenix, 2016), and Megan Casey (Phoenix, 2013) at the Central Arizona Project’s 2025 Pinal Stakeholder dinner in Florence.
The Honorable Jennifer Pawlik (Chandler, 2018) and Lenay Dunn, Ph.D. (Phoenix, 2017) at a First Things First Regional Council Meeting.
Derrik Rochwalik (Phoenix, 2018), the Honorable Mila Besich (Superior, 2019), and the Honorable Fernando Shipley (Globe, 2011) said hello from the International Economic Forum of the Americas’ Phoenix Global Forum being put on by Phoenix Sister Cities.
Jason Zibart (Benson, 2024) found some Fellows in Cochise County: The Honorable Gwen Calhoun (Sierra Vista, 2012), Barbara Lang (Sierra Vista, 2015) and David Martinez III (Phoenix, 2011).
The Honorable Lea Márquez Peterson (Tucson, 2011) and Gail Jackson (Flagstaff, 2023) at the ECONA board meeting in Flagstaff.
Fellows Lists
Each month we feature a Fellows list in a specific employment sector, public policy area, affinity group or region. This month our focus is Fellows in Technology.
You can find additional lists here.
While we try extremely hard to keep up to date on Fellows’ activities, we recognize that we may have missed someone. Please let us know and we will happily update the list.
Fellows Directory Updates
Help us keep our Fellows Directory accurate and updated! Please take a moment to complete this survey with your current information. You can also upload a new headshot to this Google Drive folder.
Please contact Jennifer if you have problems accessing the survey or uploading a photo.
Fellows Celebrating Birthdays
We want to wish a happy birthday to all the Fellows celebrating in April!
- The Honorable Eddie Cook (Gilbert, 2023)
- Mark Sanders (Phoenix, 2018)
- Elaine Becherer (Tucson, 2023)
- Anton Orlich, Ph.D. (Phoenix, 2013)
- Aron Ketchel, J.D. (Paradise Valley, 2023)
- Erica Yngve (Tucson, 2024)
- Rose Winkeler, J.D. (Flagstaff, 2018)
- Nick Staab, M.D. (Phoenix, 2024)
- Brandy Flores (Paradise Valley, 2013)
- Prescott Smith (Scottsdale, 2017)
- Benjamin Henderson (Phoenix, 2014)
- Carlos Alfaro (Scottsdale, 2024)
- The Honorable Alesia Ash, J.D. (Sierra Vista, 2015)
- T.J. Mitchell, J.D. (Phoenix, 2024)
- The Honorable Alexa Lucchese (Tucson, 2024)
- Judah Waxelbaum (Scottsdale, 2024)
- Dan Fitzgibbon (Dallas, Texas, 2013)
This is not a complete list, but we can only wish you a happy birthday if we know when it is!
You can help us make sure we celebrate you by sharing your birthday with us in the Fellows Survey.
Fellows Book Recommendations
Each month, we feature suggestions from Fellows to create a virtual library about public-policy issues, the practice of leadership, professional development, and other areas worth sharing. This month’s recommendation comes from Jaime Festa-Daigle (Flagstaff, 2023).
“The Chaos Machine” by Max Fisher
It’s all about the impact of social media and technology on our brains and society.
Fellows In The News
We are happy to promote your work through social media, so reach out if you would like us to recognize a professional accomplishment, event, or program with which you are involved.
Michelle Beaver (Phoenix, 2024) hosted PEN America’s March 26 event, “Building Resilience Against Disinformation: What Comes Next?” which explored strategies for countering disinformation and strengthening democratic resilience.
The Honorable Mila Besich (Superior, 2019) was featured in this article celebrating Superior’s designation as Arizona’s second Firewise community and highlighting her leadership in wildfire prevention efforts following the 2021 Telegraph Fire.
Teresa Bravo (Tucson, 2023) was named the Earn to Learn Mentor of the Year.
Paul Brierley (Phoenix, 2011) participated as a speaker at the FPAA Spring Policy Summit on April 2, discussing the impact of Mexican fresh produce imports.
Teniqua Broughton (Phoenix, 2013) was featured in a profile piece highlighting her leadership in Arizona’s arts and nonprofit sectors, her commitment to equity and inclusion, and her efforts to expand access to arts education across the state.
Tony Cani (Phoenix, 2014) announced that his consulting company, Slingshot Campaigns, is officially joining forces with DJ Quinlan and Morgan Finkelstein at Radar Strategies with the aim to strengthen progressive efforts in Arizona.
The Honorable Nikki Check (Jerome, 2012) will discuss the Creative Life Center’s inception and its impact on Arizona’s wine industry at the University Women of Sedona event on May 13.
The Honorable Becky Daggett (Flagstaff, 2014) was featured in this article celebrating the groundbreaking news of a $5 million public-private partnership with Wecom Fiber to deliver high-speed broadband to 34 city facilities, marking a major step toward closing the digital divide for residents and businesses across the city.
Greg Esser, J.D. (Phoenix, 2015) was highlighted in an article celebrating the 20th anniversary of MADE Art Boutique, which he co-founded with Cindy Dach, highlighting their pivotal role in fostering the Roosevelt Row Arts District.
Elyse Guidas (Phoenix, 2019) was featured in this article discussing the impact of federal cuts on Arizona’s food security.
The Honorable Brannon Hampton (Goodyear, 2022) was appointed to the National League of Cities’ Community and Economic Development Federal Advocacy Committee.
Stephanie Healy (Tucson, 2011) wrote an article discussing how technology partnerships between schools and businesses enhance educational outcomes by providing resources, expertise, and opportunities that prepare students for the modern workforce.
The Honorable Daniel Hernandez (Tucson, 2011) launched a congressional campaign to succeed the late Rep. Raúl Grijalva, which is featured in this article.
Gabriel Jaramillo (Phoenix, 2022) will be moderator for ChandlerTalks, a community event focused on shaping Chandler’s future through its General Plan Update, with expert discussions centered on housing and water policy.
Joanne Keene (Flagstaff, 2016) was appointed to the board of directors of the Arizona City/County Management Association.
The Honorable Chris Mathis (Tucson, 2011) co-sponsored the Rural Groundwater Management Act, aiming to implement groundwater preservation measures in specific rural areas.
Darcy Mentone (Tucson, 2022) was featured in this article addressing community concerns about a new LDS seminary building at Cienega High School.
The Honorable Cameron Moses (Lake Havasu City, 2024) and his family donated $10,000 toward the planned USS Arizona memorial in Lake Havasu City.
Julie Morrison (Tempe, 2012) and Lisa Schnebly Heidinger (Phoenix, 2012) were featured in this article highlighting their contributions to Tucson’s local arts scene and emphasizing their role in community engagement.
John Molina, M.D., J.D. (Guadalupe, 2012) was featured in this article discussing Arizona’s initiative to include traditional Indigenous healing practices in Medicaid coverage, highlighting his advocacy for integrating culturally rooted care into mainstream healthcare systems.
Reyna Montoya (Gilbert, 2020) was featured in this article discussing her work as founder of Aliento and her efforts to support undocumented and DACA students through private initiatives like the Adelante Scholarship.
Jill Pernice (Phoenix, 2020) was promoted to Deputy Assistant Director at the Arizona Department of Administration.
The Honorable Lea Márquez Peterson (Tucson, 2011) was highlighted in this article discussing her role as the longest-serving member of the Arizona Corporation Commission and the only statewide elected official based in Southern Arizona, highlighting her efforts to represent the region’s interests at the state level.
The Honorable Christian Price (Phoenix, 2012) served as a judge at the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Sun Corridor’s fourth annual “Dancing for Our Stars” gala, which raised $150,000 to support youth programs across Pinal County.
Kathryn Ptak, J.D. (Phoenix, 2015) highlighted the Arizona Department of Child Safety’s call for public involvement during National Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing the vital role communities play in protecting children.
Travis Schulte (Gilbert, 2017) is now the Chief Legislative Liaison and Strategic Engagement Officer at Arizona Department of Emergency and Military Affairs.
The Honorable Fernando Shipley (Globe, 2011) was featured in this article discussing wildfire prevention and the accountability needed to protect Arizona communities.
The Honorable Julie Spilsbury (Mesa, 2023) held Mesa’s annual Spring Breakfast and Easter Egg Hunt, where she emphasized the importance of community events in bringing families together and fostering civic engagement.
Christina Spicer (Phoenix, 2013) celebrated the recipients of the 2025 Girl Scouts’ prestigious Gold Award, recognizing high school girls for leading impactful, community-focused projects.
Nick Staab, M.D. (Phoenix, 2024) was featured in this article discussing the department’s ongoing assessment of the impact from more than $190 million in federal grant cuts to Arizona’s county health programs.
Alec Thomson (Phoenix, 2019) partook in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for Arizona State University’s new mobile simulation unit, part of the Edson College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s “Learn Where You Live” initiative aimed at expanding nursing education accessibility across Arizona.
Elizabeth Alvarado-Thorson (Phoenix, 2017) was featured in this article recognizing the state of Arizona as the winner in the extra-large category of the 2025 Healthiest Employers awards, highlighting her leadership in promoting employee wellness through initiatives like the Health Impact Program.
Audra Koester Thomas (Fountain Hills, 2011) presented the Friends of Transit’s 2024 Transit Means Business Award to Arizona PIRG for its advocacy and research in support of public transportation.
The Honorable Christine Thompson, J.D. (Phoenix, 2017) spoke at an ASU-hosted forum emphasizing the urgent need for Arizona nonprofits to receive guidance and collaborate in response to recent federal funding cuts.
The Honorable Kevin Volk (Tucson, 2022) was featured in this article discussing Arizona lawmakers’ efforts to raise their annual salary from $24,000 to approximately $47,000.
Board and Commission Openings
Serving on a board or commission is a great way to influence public policy on issues where you have expertise or a passion to serve.
The Governor’s Office has more than 200 boards and commissions. To apply, complete the application on the website. For a list of vacancies, updated April 7, please see here.
Most Arizona counties and cities have boards and commissions with frequent vacancies. Check local websites for more opportunities.
If you have specific opportunities to share, let us know.
Career & Professional Opportunities
AZ Impact for Good is hiring an Advocacy Manager to serve as the primary contact for the organization’s advocacy public policy agenda and engagement strategy.
The Adams Presidential Center is seeking an Executive Director to lead its Educating for American Democracy initiative.
Desert Botanical Garden is undertaking an executive search for its next President and CEO.
Groundswell Capital in Tucson has positions open for Executive Vice President, Director of Finance, and Executive & Finance Assistant.
The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona is seeking a Vice President for Community Impact.
The Hopi Education Endowment Fund is searching for an Executive Director to oversee programming and fundraising.
Per Scholas is hiring a Managing Director to oversee a campus serving approximately 500 learners.
Social Ventures Partners Tucson is looking for a President and CEO to provide strategic and tactical leadership.
Events & Conferences
Cochise County Health and Social Services, in partnership with Arizona Complete Health and the Center for the Future of Arizona, will host a Workforce Development Forum at the Cochise College-Sierra Vista campus on May 2.
Central Arizona Project is hosting a Stakeholder Rate Briefing on May 8. Both in-person and virtual options are available.
The American Democracy Summit 2025 will be held in Phoenix, May 14-16, at Gila River Resorts.
Project Citizen is looking for volunteer judges and timers for the upcoming Project Citizen State Showcase, May 15 in Tempe.
Greater Phoenix Chamber will host the Phoenix Mayor’s State of the City Address & Luncheon on May 20 at Sheraton Phoenix Downtown.
The Arizona chapter of PEN America, in partnership with the Society of Professional Journalists, will host Reporters Take Up The Pen: Arizona Journalists Who Became Authors on May 24 in Scottsdale—organized by and featuring Flinn-Brown Fellow Michelle Beaver (Phoenix, 2024).
Registration is open for the University of Arizona’s Center for Rural Health 51st Annual Rural Health Conference in Flagstaff June 3-4.
Registration opens soon for Local First Arizona’s Rural Policy Forum that will be held Aug. 6-8 in Gila Valley.
Registration opens in May for the 2025 League of Cities and Towns Conference to be held Aug. 19-22 at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.