July 2025 Network News

Thoughts from Dawn Wallace

Last week, I came across a quote by Carl Jung in an art exhibit that made me reflect: “We don’t get wounded alone. And we don’t heal alone.” 

Jung was speaking to the human experience of suffering and healing, and that pain is often created in relationships, and also healed in them. In my own experience, I have found that the same holds true in public life. Leadership is rarely just about individual resolve. It is shaped, tested, and sustained by the people around us. 

We often define resilience in civic spaces as pushing through obstacles or standing firm under pressure. But that overlooks the more lasting form of resilience — the kind built through trust, accountability, and community. The kind that helps leaders keep going when the decisions are tough and the support is not guaranteed to be there.

I think of Senator John McCain, who in August 2017 returned to the Senate after his brain cancer diagnosis to cast a decisive vote against the repeal of the Affordable Care Act. Whether you agreed with the vote or not, it was a moment that reveals something deeper. He did not act in isolation but drew on his decades of experience, institutional memory, and personal clarity about what public service required of him. 

That kind of resilience is not limited to larger-than-life figures. It plays out daily across Arizona in school boards, state agencies, nonprofits, and advocacy work. A tough policy decision, a disappointing outcome, or a stretch of burnout: these are all part of the landscape. What helps leaders endure is not merely grit, it is knowing someone has your back. That someone understands what you are navigating. 

I hear about this kind of support often from Flinn-Brown Fellows. Fellows support each other in visible and invisible ways. And for some, this kinship makes the difference between staying in the work or walking away from it. 

It has taken a while for this to sink in for me: resilience doesn’t mean doing it all yourself. It means knowing when to pause, when to ask, and when to let others help carry the weight. 

We don’t get wounded alone. We don’t heal alone. And we don’t lead alone either. 

Best, 

Dawn

Fellows Spotlight

Richard Yarbough

2018 Flinn-Brown Fellow
President
Pilgrim Rest Foundation, Inc.

LinkedIn

Since 1996, Richard Yarbough has had the pleasure of serving at Pilgrim Rest Foundation. His early work focused on real estate acquisition, site plan development, construction, and financing of the Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church campus. It was a dynamic period of growth, during which he led efforts to expand both the staff and the organization’s programming. What began as a team of four has grown to over 30 professionals providing services across human services, education, financial literacy, legal advocacy, and wellness.

Yarbough finds his work both challenging and incredibly fulfilling. He partners with a team of passionate and gifted individuals who are committed to serving the community through comprehensive wrap-around services. Each week, Pilgrim Rest serves nearly 200 families seeking rental, utility, and transportation assistance. The monthly mobile food pantry serves more than 1,000 individuals. Still, the need far outweighs available resources. The organization can currently assist only about 20% of those who apply.

Through a partnership with Arizona State University, the Pilgrim Rest Foundation offers innovative education for Pre-K through eighth grade. ASU Preparatory Academy Pilgrim Rest was the first elementary school in the United States to build a Dreamscape Immersive pod, allowing students to use virtual reality to explore the life sciences and other subjects. 
A 2018 Flinn-Brown Fellow, Yarbough recognizes the critical role public policy plays in the foundation’s ability to serve the community — from funding and education standards to housing and food equity. Thoughtful public policy is essential to sustaining and expanding their work. For example, most students who attend ASU Prep Pilgrim Rest qualify as Title I students and rely on subsidized meals. Yarbough is now concerned that recent federal budget cuts could jeopardize their nutritional support. 

A signed poster in his office from one of his mentors, Dr. Harry Edwards, bears a powerful message that continues to guide him:

“We men and boys will never be everything that we ought to be until women and girls can be everything that they can be. We are not going anywhere that women and girls do not go as full, equal, respected, and contributing partners.”

Edwards made this statement at University of California, Berkeley in 1984 and gifted the signed quote to Yarbough in 2020. He embraces this philosophy wholeheartedly in both his personal and professional life. It serves as a constant reminder of the importance of equity, inclusion, and shared leadership.

Yarbough is deeply rooted in the love and support of his family and church community. Originally from Massachusetts, he moved to Los Angeles to attend the University of Southern California, then relocated to Arizona four decades ago, later earning his master’s degree from ASU. He proudly considers himself an “adopted native.”

Outside of work, he finds joy in travel and music, especially jazz. He enjoys live performances at The Nash, where he also serves on the board of directors, and often invites others to join him there or for a Sunday morning at Pilgrim Rest.

Richard considers the Fellows Network invaluable, with connections that have grown into both intentional and organic collaborations. He has partnered with many Fellows in his work, including Talonya Adams, J.D.,Jaime Dempsey, Tomás León, and Claire Louge, among others. These relationships have enriched his perspective, expanded the foundation’s reach, and deepened his commitment to service.

He believes one of the greatest strengths of the Flinn-Brown Network lies in its ability to unite diverse perspectives in pursuit of shared understanding. 

“In an increasingly divided nation,” Richard said, “the Network offers a unique space for meaningful dialogue where relationships transcend differing viewpoints, and common ground can be cultivated.” 

He sees Flinn-Brown Fellows as having a critical role to play in modeling civic engagement that is respectful, informed, and solutions oriented. 

“By leveraging their influence and connections,” Yarbough asserts, “Fellows can address the complex issues facing Arizona and demonstrate what collaborative leadership can achieve.”

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Fellows Field Trips

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. 

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2025 Flinn-Brown Convention

Please join us for a dynamic day of connection, inspiration, and action as we collectively explore how transformational leadership can spark meaningful change in Arizona and beyond.

The 2025 Flinn-Brown Convention will be held Friday, Aug. 15, at On Jackson, 245 E. Jackson St., in Phoenix. The cost is $40 and and financial assistance is available.

The 2025 Convention theme, Transformational Leadership: Catalyzing Change Together, reflects the Planning Committee’s belief in the power of collaborative leadership to drive meaningful, lasting impact. The event will feature a morning panel, interactive workshop with Fellow Catherine Alonzo, and afternoon tabletop conversations.

Other highlights include:

• Pre-Convention Reception on Thursday, Aug. 14, from 5:30-8 p.m. at the FOUND:RE Hotel. We will celebrate the 10^th 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 (Prescott Valley, 2017).
• Flinn-Brown night at the Phoenix Mercury. For Convention attendees who don’t want the fun to end, we invite you to attend the Mercury game that begins at 7 p.m. on Aug. 15 directly across the street from On Jackson.
• 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 to Convention. 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.

If you have any questions, please let Dawn or Jennifer know.

Fellows Directory Updates

Help us keep our Fellows Directory accurate and updated! 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 us knowif you have problems accessing the survey or uploading a photo.

CivEx

Our 2025 Flinn-Brown Legislative Wrap-Up is now available for Fellows to view.

The July 16 event was hosted by 2018 Flinn-Brown Fellow Ben Blink and featured lobbyists Meghaen Dell’Artino of Public Policy Partners, Marilyn Rodriguez of Creosote Partners, Stacy Pearson of Lumen Strategies, and Jay Kaprosy of Veridus.

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

Ryan Peters (Gilbert, 2025), Jenna Goad (Phoenix, 2012), Rodney Short, J.D. (Yuma, 2024), Rosalva Zimmerman (Goodyear, 2018), Teresa Bravo (Tucson, 2022) and Joanne Keene (Flagstaff, 2016) meet at the Arizona City/County Management Association’s summer conference.

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 Voting and Elections work.

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 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 Richard Yarbough (Glendale, 2018).

‘The Kidnapping Club’ by Jonathan Daniel Wells

“I am drawn to historical narratives that offer insights into present-day social, economic, and political dynamics. One book I highly recommend is ‘The Kidnapping Club’ by Jonathan Daniel Wells. Introduced to me through a book discussion led by Dr. Lois Brown of Arizona State University, the book examines the deep entanglement of slavery and capitalism, and the role of Wall Street in sustaining both. It is a powerful, well-researched account that challenges readers to confront the historical foundations of inequality that persist today.”

Fellows Celebrating Birthdays

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We want to wish a happy birthday to all the Fellows celebrating in August!

• The Honorable Mary Hamway (Paradise Valley, 2012)
• Nicole Pasteur (Washington, 2013)
• Ryan Gregg (Scottsdale, 2015)
• Amanda Lomayesva, J.D. (Tucson, 2015)
• Kathryn Leonard (Phoenix, 2016)
• The Honorable Christine Thompson, J.D. (Phoenix, 2017)
• The Honorable Brian Garcia, J.D. (Tempe, 2018)
• Melissa Duke, Pharm. D. (Phoenix, 2019)
• Jack Schwimmer (Phoenix, 2020)
• Michael Deiana, Jr. (Yuma, 2022)
• Charlinda Haudley, Ph.D. (Tucson, 2022)
• Allison Otu (Phoenix, 2024)
• Rodney Short, J.D. (Yuma, 2024)
• Natalie Collings (Kingman, 2025)
• Juliana Manzanarez, J.D. (Phoenix, 2025)
• Michael Marquess (Flagstaff, 2025)
• The Honorable Violeta Ramos (Phoenix, 2025)
• Andre Whittington (Phoenix, 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 In The News

The Honorable Danya Acosta (Douglas, 2025) shared her struggles with mental illness in a video featured in the Herald/Review.

Veronica Aguilar (Scottsdale, 2025), Teniqua Broughton (Phoenix, 2013), and Adelaida Severson, Ph.D. (Gilbert, 2020) spoke at the Young & Empowered Women 5^th Annual Empow[her] Conference.

The Honorable Alexandra Arboleda (Phoenix, 2018) co-authored an op-ed in the Arizona Republic about the benefits of Arizona’s ag-to-urban program.

The Honorable Sarah Benatar (Flagstaff, 2015) was interviewed by KJZZ about how federal cuts will impact all Arizonans.

Teresa Bravo (Tucson, 2023) was promoted to Senior Government Relations Representative at Tucson Electric Power.

Paul Brierley (Phoenix, 2011) was quoted in a KVOA.com article about high failure rates in liquid pool chlorine products.

Vance Bryce (Safford, 2024) was featured in an article highlighting the Graham County Chamber of Commerce’s call for the U.S. Department of Commerce to pause its withdrawal from the 2019 Agreement Suspending the Antidumping Investigation on Fresh Tomatoes from Mexico.

Tony Cani (Phoenix, 2014) provided political commentary for a Washington Post article about the special election primary to replace Rep. Raúl Grijalva and the state of the Democratic Party.

The Honorable Eddie Cook (Gilbert, 2023) was featured in a KJZZ article about a new law that expands eligibility for a program aimed at keeping property taxes low for veterans, widows, and individuals with disabilities.

Molly Edwards (Phoenix, 2011) received a promotion to Assistant Director, Operations with the Arizona Criminal Justice Commission.

Dave Englethaler, Ph.D. (Flagstaff, 2022) was interviewed for a 12 News segment about the federal ban on avian flu vaccination and the impact on Arizona egg producers.

Sean Goslar (Tucson, 2020) was interviewed for a KGUN9 news story about a four-week bilingual citizenship course offered by Chicanos Por La Causa.

Katelyn Harris Lange (Phoenix, 2020) is now Vice Chair of the Arizona Association for Economic Development’s Workforce Committee.

Erin Hart (Phoenix, 2013) moderated a 2025 Arizona Workforce Summit panel discussion about the role of child care in Arizona’s economic success.

Stephanie Healy (Tucson, 2011) wrote an article in the Herald/Review about how to monsoon-proof business and home electronics.

The Honorable Daniel Hernandez (Tucson, 2011) spoke about political violence on a recent episode of Politics Unplugged.

Mignonne Hollis (Hereford, 2013) was quoted in a Center Square article about the Investing in Main Street Act, which would allow banks to invest up to 15% of their capital in Small Business Investment Companies.

Jenny Holsman Tetreault (Phoenix, 2011) was appointed the new Board Chair of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.

Lloyd Hopkins II (Phoenix, 2024) was featured in an East Valley Tribune article about the Million Dollar Teacher Project and his work to improve teacher retention and morale.

Peter Huisking (Pasadena, California, 2015) wrote an op-ed about President Trump’s speech at Fort Bragg.  

Marie Isaacson (Phoenix, 2016) has been named a 2025 Best of the Capitol winner for Best Nonprofit Advocate.  

Brittney Kaufmann (Phoenix, 2014) was featured on a recent episode of Arizona Horizon about the impact of federal Medicaid budget cuts on hospitals in Arizona.

The Honorable Nikki Lee (Tucson, 2018) was interviewed for a KGUN9 news story about Project Blue and the secrecy surrounding the proposed data center.

Tomás León (Phoenix, 2022) wrote a guest column in Phoenix Business Journal urging business leaders to oppose Medicaid cuts.

Reyna Montoya (Gilbert, 2020) was featured on an episode of Arizona Horizon to discuss how her organization, Aliento, is supporting immigrant youth and families amidst ICE raids.

Kathryn Ptak (Phoenix, 2015) was featured in a Scripps News article discussing Arizona’s approach to child welfare in cases involving fentanyl.

Nate Rhoton (Phoenix, 2015) was interviewed for a State Press article about the removal of the LGBTQ+ extension from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

Chris Richardson (Scottsdale, 2022) is now Regional CTO at Rimini Street.

Elizabeth Slater (Tucson, 2025) was interviewed for a KGUN9 news story about the impact federal budget cuts are having on nonprofit organizations in Southern Arizona.

Ryan Smith (Mesa, 2013) was quoted in an Arizona Republic article about upgrades being made to Mesa Gateway Airport.

Benjamin Taylor, J.D. (Phoenix, 2019) provided legal commentary for a TODAY.com article about possible charges in the drowning death of Trigg Kiser.

Alec Thomson (Phoenix, 2019) was interviewed for an ABC 15 news story about the new $5 Arizona Lottery ticket that was developed in partnership with State Forty Eight.

The Honorable Christine Thompson, J.D. (Phoenix, 2017) co-authored an article in the Stanford Social Innovation Review on asset transfers as a tool for social impact.

Drew Trojanowski (Phoenix, 2013) was quoted in an Arizona Commerce Authority press release about the creation of the Arizona Office of Defense Innovation.

Judah Waxelbaum (Scottsdale, 2024) is now the Chief of Government Affairs at the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona.

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.

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 Phoenix Conservatory of Music is seeking applications for board members.

The Arizona Governor’s Office is seeking applications for Judicial Appointment to Division 8 of the Mohave County Superior Court. The application consists of the Mohave County Superior Court’s Commissioner Employment Application and the Application Addendum. Both are available on the Mohave County Superior Court’s website under the “How to Apply” tab.

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

The Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation is searching for a new President and CEO to guide the Foundation’s mission to advance student success, educational excellence, and community impact.

One Arizona is accepting applications for a Deputy Director to serve as a key strategic partner to the Executive Director.

Goldwater Institute is looking for a Litigator with first-chair experience to join its team.

The Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management is seeking a Deputy Director of Operations.

Community Bridges is hiring an Associate Director of Housing and Community Integration to oversee outreach, shelter, housing and community-based programs.

The State Bar of Arizona has positions open for a Mentor Program Manager, a Legal Secretary, and an Attorney/Bar Counsel.

The Arizona House of Representatives is hiring for a Republican Policy Advisor, Legislative Research Analyst, and an Assistant Legislative Research Analyst.

The Corporation for Supportive Housing is seeking a Director, Southwest to lead efforts to expand housing and services for highly impacted populations.

The Arizona Office of Economic Opportunity is accepting applications for a Sector Workforce Strategies & Grants Administrator to coordinate and execute the Workforce Arizona Council industry sector strategies.

Events & Conferences

The 10^th Annual Rural Women’s Health Symposium will be held on Aug. 19 at the Desert Willow Conference Center.

AZ Impact for Good is hosting UNITE Conference + Transform Arizona at Desert Willow Conference Center in Phoenix on Aug. 20-21.

Registration is open for the 2025 League of Cities and Towns Conference to be held Aug. 19-22 at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess.  

The Arizona Chamber will be hosting the 2025 Summer Policy Institute in Flagstaff Aug. 27-28.

Registration is open for the Arizona Health Equity Conference to be held Oct. 23 in Phoenix.

Join LISC Phoenix for its Annual Breakfast & Community Awards on Oct. 30 in Mesa.

The 2025 ATRA Outlook Conference will be held on Nov. 21 at the Wigwam Resort.

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