From Fellowship to Policy
Guest column from Tori Bourguignon (Yuma, 2025)
One of the greatest strengths of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship is its ability to bring together leaders from across Arizona who are committed to thoughtful, solutions-driven public service. Senate Bill 1211 is a meaningful example of what can happen when that commitment is put into action.
As part of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship experience, Fellows are required to develop and present a legislative proposal—an exercise designed to move ideas from concept to actionable policy. SB 1211 originated through this process, developed collaboratively by Fellows Ryan Peters, Erin Ford Faulhaber, Kristen Randall, and Tori Bourguignon. What began as a Fellowship project ultimately evolved into enacted law.
The proposal emerged from a clearly identified gap in the law observed through direct work with victims of domestic violence: individuals experiencing aggravated harassment—often a pattern of repeated, escalating abuse—were not afforded the same long-term protections as victims of other qualifying offenses.
Aggravated harassment is rarely a single incident. More often, it reflects an ongoing cycle of intimidation and control. Under prior law, many victims were required to return to court every two years to renew protective orders. This process forced survivors to relive trauma, face their abuser, and navigate a complex legal system. —raising an important question: why should victims of sustained harm be subjected to having to prove their need for protection?
SB 1211 addresses this gap through a focused and practical solution. It adds felony aggravated harassment related to domestic violence to the list of qualifying offenses for lifetime injunctions. It does not remove judicial discretion but rather provides courts with the ability to issue longer-term protections when appropriate and requested by the victim.
The development and advancement of this legislation reflect the core strengths of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship. The program equips leaders with the knowledge, relationships, and tools necessary to engage effectively in public policy. Through training, exposure to state government, and a strong statewide network, the Fellowship helps translate frontline experience into actionable policy solutions.
Several key lessons emerged through the process.
Clarity drives progress. A well-defined problem paired with a targeted solution is far more effective than broad, complex proposals. SB 1211 gained traction in part because it was straightforward, narrowly tailored, and clearly justified.
Relationships matter. Connections built through the Flinn-Brown Network played an important role in facilitating conversations, building trust, and creating opportunities to engage with policymakers in a meaningful way.
Strategy is essential. While there is often a desire to expand legislation to address multiple issues, maintaining a narrow focus allowed this bill to move forward efficiently and with minimal opposition. Broader policy changes can be pursued in future efforts.
Voice has impact. Bringing forward the experiences of victims—thoughtfully and responsibly—helped ground the policy discussion in real-world impact. It shifted the conversation from abstract statutory language to issues of safety, dignity, and stability.
At its core, SB 1211 ensured that the law more accurately reflects the realities victims face. When harassment is part of an ongoing pattern of abuse, victims should not be required to repeatedly return to court to seek protection. Providing the option for long-term injunctions acknowledges the seriousness and continuity of that harm.
Governor Katie Hobbs signed SB 1211 into law on March 27, 2026.
This legislation represents more than a statutory change. It demonstrates how informed, engaged leadership—supported by the Flinn-Brown Fellowship—can identify gaps, build consensus, and advance practical solutions that improve outcomes for communities across Arizona.
It also serves as a reminder that meaningful policy often begins with a clear, grounded question: how can the system better serve those it is designed to protect?
Tori Bourguignon (Yuma, 2025)
Executive Director
Amberly’s Place Family Advocacy Center
Save the Date!
Mark your calendar for the 2026 Flinn-Brown Convention, taking place Friday, Aug. 14, at On Jackson in Phoenix, with a pre-convention reception on Thursday, Aug. 13, at the FOUND:RE Hotel.
The Convention Planning Committee is hard at work developing a day of engaging conversations, meaningful connections, and opportunities to celebrate the strength of the Flinn-Brown Network.
Nominations for Fellows awards open Wednesday, May 6. We will honor our Arizona Champions during the reception on Thursday evening and present the Jack Jewett Award and Network Builder Award at the Convention on Friday.
Fellows Spotlight
Barbara Lang
(Sierra Vista, 2015)
Health Director
Cochise County
Barbara “Barb” Lang has called Arizona home for more than three decades. She has lived in Phoenix and Gilbert and now resides in Sierra Vista with her husband, Marc, and their four dogs.
Throughout her career, Barb’s focus has remained firmly rooted in human services. She began her professional journey in Arizona as a probation officer managing a gang caseload, eventually advancing to a treatment unit supervisor. During this time, she contributed to legislative workgroups and testified before both the House and Senate on issues including foster care, victims’ rights, and the supervision of juveniles adjudicated for sexual misconduct. Her work with youth who had lost their way laid the foundation for her commitment to tackling complex social challenges and improving the lives of those she serves.
Barb earned her graduate degree in Professional Counseling, along with an Advanced Certificate in Clinical Mental Health, and later completed a Certificate in Integrated Health and Primary Care through the University of Michigan. Her commitment to whole-person health and her passion for helping individuals reach their full potential continue to drive her work.
Civil service is central to Barb’s professional identity. Following her work in the courts, she held roles with the Maricopa County Department of Health Licensing Division and the Arizona Healthcare Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), as well as Chief of Quality and Compliance with an integrated service provider in the nonprofit sector. Alongside these roles, she taught at the community college level and worked as a clinician specializing in mental health, addiction, and sexual offending. Across each position, she developed deep expertise in Arizona Administrative Code, state statutes, and local regulations leveraging this knowledge to identify opportunities for system improvement and to advocate for individuals who may not have a voice.
Barb’s affinity for rural communities ultimately led her to Cochise County, where she now serves as Public Health Director. In this role, her relationship with public policy is critical. She prioritizes staying informed and actively engages both community members and policymakers to protect and enhance public health. Recognizing that health policy is constantly evolving in response to emerging trends, new research, and shifting societal behaviors, Barb ensures her team remains adaptable and responsive to the unique needs of rural southeastern Arizona.
She understands that the success of public health initiatives depends on community trust and participation. To foster this, Barb and her team maintain a visible presence through grassroots engagement, participating in health fairs, community events, workforce forums, and digital outreach to increase awareness and collaboration. She also recognizes that policy decisions directly influence funding and resource allocation, making strategic implementation an ongoing challenge and priority. Working in a rural region is an ongoing lesson in versatility but Barb enjoys the creativity it fosters.
Barb’s favorite proverb, “No grit, no pearl,” reflects her belief that strength, growth, and success are forged through adversity. She values the lessons learned from life’s challenges, recognizing that her lived experience enables her to better support others navigating their own journeys.
As a Fellow, Barb values the opportunity to connect with professionals she might not otherwise encounter. The network has allowed her to build meaningful relationships with others who share a commitment to improving Arizona. She views the Flinn-Brown Fellowship as an “idea factory” that fosters knowledge-sharing across disciplines and consistently leaves her feeling energized and inspired after each engagement.
Barb believes that strengthening civic health in Arizona requires intentional investment in projects that enhance the built environment, improving safety, connectivity, and mixed-use development. She sees vibrant civic infrastructure as a cornerstone of healthy, thriving communities.
Fellows Field Trips
Maricopa County Fellows Happy Hour
Thank you to all the Fellows who joined the Maricopa County Fellows happy hour at the Green Woodpecker. And special thanks to Katelyn Harris Lange (Phoenix, 2020) for organizing and hosting this event!
Pictured: Katie Hurst (Phoenix, 2025), Juliana Manzanarez, J.D. (Phoenix, 2025), Chris Richardson (Scottsdale, 2022), Nicole Fries, J.D. (Phoenix, 2020), Elyse Guidas (Phoenix, 2019), Richie Taylor (Phoenix, 2020), Rebecca McKay (Phoenix, 2024), Blake Sacha (Gilbert, 2017), Veronica Aguilar (Scottsdale, 2025), the Honorable Matthew Gress (Phoenix, 2015), Oye Waddell (Phoenix, 2025), the Honorable Christine Thompson, J.D. (Phoenix, 2017), Allison Otu (Phoenix, 2024), Teresa Aseret-Manygoats (Chandler, 2023), and David Martinez III (Phoenix, 2011).
Palo Verde Generating Station Tour
Katie Hurst (Phoenix, 2025) has organized a Fellows Field Trip to the Palo Verde Generating Station from 9 a.m. to noon, Tuesday, June 30. The event includes a tour, lunch, and a Q&A session. There is limited capacity, so registration is capped at 20 Fellows.
Fellows are encouraged to suggest or offer opportunities for Fellows to visit and learn more about what is happening in Greater Arizona. Please let Dawn know if you have an idea or are interested in providing a field trip opportunity.
Fellows Directory Updates
Help us keep our Fellows Directory accurate and up-to-date! Please make sure your information is accurate and current by scanning the QR code or following this link to complete the survey. You can also upload a new headshot to this Google Drive folder.
Please let Dawn know if you have problems accessing the survey or uploading a photo.
Fellows Meet Fellows
The Honorable Matt Gress (Phoenix, 2015), Lenay Dunn, Ph.D. (Phoenix, 2017), Veronica Aguilar (Scottsdale, 2025), the Honorable Laura Terech (Phoenix, 2025), Josh Munoz (Tempe, 2025), and Sophie Allen-Etchart (Phoenix, 2022) at A Stepping Stone Foundation’s breakfast.
Southern Arizona Fellows Erica Yngve (Tucson, 2024), Jose Arias (Tucson, 2023), Erik Lee (Tucson, 2014) and his wife, Dennis Barger (Vail, 2020), Julie Katsel (Tucson, 2014), the Honorable Demion Clinco (Tucson, 2013), Heath Vescovi-Chiordi (Tucson, 2023), Illya Riske (Phoenix, 2014), the Honorable Kristel Ann Foster (Tucson, 2015), and Teresa Bravo (Tucson, 2023) gathered in Tucson.
Tomás León (Phoenix, 2022), Elizabeth Slater (Tucson, 2025), Juliana Manzanarez, J.D. (Phoenix, 2025), and Tom Collins, J.D. (Tempe, 2025) celebrated the 40th birthday of Youth On Their Own.
Elizabeth Carpio (Phoenix, 2013), Jessica Rigler (Chandler, 2019), the Honorable Kevin Hartke (Chandler, 2014), and Daniel Ruiz II (Phoenix, 2015) at the Common Sense Institute luncheon.
The Honorable Jennifer Pawlik (Chandler, 2018) and Marge Zylla (Tempe, 2017) bumped into each other at the Chandler Family Bike Ride.
Frank McCune (Phoenix, 2011) and the Honorable Kevin Hartke (Chandler, 2014) attended the Chinese Chamber of Commerce dinner.
Derrik Rochwalik (Phoenix, 2018), the Honorable Roberta Cano (Winslow, 2025), and Jesse Galvez,
Fellows Paul Brierley (Phoenix, 2011), Teresa Bravo (Tucson, 2023), the Honorable Reetika Dhawan, Ed.D. (Yuma, 2022), and the Honorable Nikki Lee (Tucson, 2018), pictured with Sarah Brown Smallhouse, judged this year’s Regents Cup.
The Honorable Nikki Check (Jerome, 2012), the Honorable Coral Evans, Ph.D. (Flagstaff, 2011), the Honorable Bill Regner (Clarkdale, 2018), and the Honorable Janet Regner (Clarkdale, 2017) at Northern Arizona Healthcare’s new Cancer Center in Cottonwood.
The Honorable Roberta Cano (Winslow, 2025), the Honorable Mila Besich (Superior, 2019), Erin Carr-Jordan, Ph.D. (Chandler, 2013), and Eric Gudiño (Phoenix, 2012) enjoyed the Mining Festival in Superior.
Derrik Rochwalik (Phoenix, 2018), the Honorable Brian Garcia, J.D. (Tempe, 2018), and Amy Love (Phoenix, 2019) at one-n-ten’s Fresh Brunch.
Fellows Celebrating Birthdays
We want to wish a happy birthday to all the Fellows celebrating in May!
- Brandy Flores (Paradise Valley, 2013)
- Dan Fitzgibbon (Plano, Texas, 2013)
- Anton Orlich, Ph.D. (Phoenix, 2013)
- Benjamin Henderson (Phoenix, 2014)
- Honorable Alesia Ash, J.D. (Phoenix, 2015)
- Mary Venezia (Tucson, 2015)
- Prescott Smith (Scottsdale, 2017)
- Mark Sanders (Phoenix, 2018)
- Rose Winkeler, J.D. (Flagstaff, 2018)
- Michelle Kauk (Gilbert, 2019)
- Honorable Eddie Cook (Gilbert, 2023)
- Elaine Becherer (Tucson, 2023)
- Aron Ketchel, J.D. (Paradise Valley, 2023)
- Carlos Alfaro (Scottsdale, 2024)
- T.J. Mitchell, J.D. (Phoenix, 2024)
- Nick Staab, M.D. (Phoenix, 2024)
- Judah Waxelbaum (Scottsdale, 2024)
- Erica Yngve (Tucson, 2024)
- Matthew Schumacher, Ed.D. (Cottonwood, 2025)
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 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 Barbara Lang (Sierra Vista, 2015).
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz: This is a small book written for big impact. For me, simple and actionable principles foster peace in a chaotic world.
Fellows Lists
Each month, we feature a Fellows list in a specific employment sector, public policy area, affinity group, or region. In honor of National Teacher’s Day on Wednesday, May 6, our focus this month is Fellows in K12 Education.
You can find additional lists here. If there is a new list you would like to see compiled, please let us know.
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.
Clare Aslan, Ph.D. (Flagstaff, 2017) was quoted in coverage of the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals’ decision upholding the Biden-era Grand Canyon million-acre monument designation.
Michelle Beaver (Phoenix, 2024) founded News Literacy for Arizona, an organization that teaches news literacy through community workshops.
The Honorable Mila Besich (Superior, 2019) will speak at a University of Arizona conference on water supply for the tech, mining, and energy sectors.
Tori Bourguignon (Yuma, 2025) was featured in coverage of Arizona’s new domestic violence protection law, Senate Bill 1211, which Gov. Hobbs recently signed.
Tony Boone (Sierra Vista, 2019) was featured in coverage of the fifth annual El Tour de Zona, which drew 500 cyclists and generated a $1 million economic boost for Cochise County.
Tony Cani (Phoenix, 2014) appeared on KJZZ to discuss President Trump’s executive order aimed at ending mail-in voting and was also quoted in the Arizona Republic on gas-price politics in the Arizona governor’s race.
The Honorable Ken Clark (Phoenix, 2013) was elected to the SRP Board and Council for District 6.
The Honorable Nikki Check (Jerome, 2012) motioned to approve a $1.67 million federal grant for a water tank at Sedona Airport.
The Honorable Juan Ciscomani (Tucson, 2011) presented an award at the AbilityOne Base Supply Center’s 30th Anniversary Ceremony and recognized SSVEC’s national award for prioritizing energy affordability in the Sierra Vista region.
The Honorable Becky Daggett (Flagstaff, 2014) was quoted in KNAU coverage regarding a planned ICE substation in Flagstaff, noting she had not yet received any official communication about the proposal.
The Honorable Matthew Gress (Phoenix, 2015) is advancing legislation to expedite construction of a controversial stretch of Interstate 11 through the Phoenix area.
The Honorable Kevin Hartke (Chandler, 2014) welcomed TOCALO USA, a Japanese semiconductor supplier, as it signed a lease to establish a coating service facility near Phoenix.
Stephanie Healy (Tucson, 2011) was featured in coverage of Cox Communications awarding a grant to the YWCA of Southern Arizona to support energy efficiency on its Tucson campus.
The Honorable Cameron Moses (Lake Havasu City, 2024) was appointed to the Board of Directors for Havasu Regional Medical Center.
Jennifer Richards, Ph.D. (Flagstaff, 2024) is running for a seat on the Flagstaff Unified School District Governing Board.
The Honorable William Ring, J.D. (Flagstaff, 2011) is now serving as Chief Civil Deputy of the Civil Division at the Coconino County Attorney’s Office.
Alec Thomson (Phoenix, 2019) announced that the Arizona Lottery reached a record-breaking $1 billion in fiscal year sales faster than ever before.
Susan Trujillo, J.D. (Phoenix, 2012) was named a finalist for Az Business Magazine’s 2026 Excellence in Law award, recognizing legal leaders who strengthen Arizona’s economy.
Brad Vynalek, J.D. (Phoenix, 2011) was selected to the 2026 AZ Big 100 list by AZ Big Media, placing him among Arizona’s most influential business and professional leaders.
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 Arizona Governor’s Office is accepting applications for an upcoming judicial vacancy on the Superior Court in Mohave County. Applicants must be at least 30 years of age and younger than 65 years of age, of good moral character, admitted to the practice of law in Arizona for the past five years, a resident of Arizona for the past five years, and a resident of Mohave County for the past year. Candidates may apply by submitting a complete Judicial Application – Mohave County 2026 via email to [email protected]. by 5 p.m., Thursday, April 30.
The Arizona Governor’s Office has more than 200 boards and commissions. To apply, complete the application on the website. For the most recent list of vacancies, please see here.
Most Arizona counties and cities have boards and commissions with frequent vacancies. Check local websites for more opportunities.
If you’re interested in joining a nonprofit board, or you work for a nonprofit with board openings, sign up for AZ Leaders on Board, a platform that connects civic-minded professionals with meaningful board service opportunities for Arizona nonprofits.
If you have specific opportunities to share, let us know.
Career & Professional Opportunities
The Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation is seeking an Associate Director of Academic Programs for the Taliesin Institute.
The city of Sedona is hiring a Communications and Public Affairs Manager to plan and manage the operations, programs, and activities that comprise the communications and public relations program for the city.
The University of Arizona Foundation is accepting applications for Director of Development, Foundation Relations.
Arizona Western College is seeking an Executive Vice President of the Entrepreneurial College to provide strategic oversight for workforce, career and technical education, health care, and reskilling programs that advance student success and regional economic impact.
The American Heart Association is hiring an Executive Director, Southern Arizona to strengthen and expand fundraising capacity.
The city of Surprise is hiring a Community Engagement Partner to promote community vitality.
Arizona SciTech Institute is seeking a Development Manager to advance its fundraising efforts related to individual and corporate giving.
Events & Conferences
Phoenix Global Forum 2026 will be held Monday, May 13 at the Phoenix Convention Center.
Registration is open for the Professional Women’s Leadership Summit on Thursday, May 21, at the Marriott Phoenix Airport.
The 6th Annual Empow[her] Conference is Saturday, June 27, in Tempe.
The 52nd Annual Arizona Rural Health Conference will be held June 2-3 at the High Country Conference Center in Flagstaff.
Registration is open for the 2026 Native Power Building Summit, Still We Rise: Joy, Justice, & the Fight for Indigenous Futures, which will be held Thursday, July 16 in Scottsdale.
Registration opens soon for Local First Arizona’s Rural Policy Forum that will be held Aug. 5-7 in Kingman.