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| Join Our List |  |
| Staff | |
Frank McCune
Executive Director
Program and Events Coordinator
Office/Communications Coordinator
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| Board of Directors | |
Officers:
Board Chair - Michelle Hernandez
Mountain Park Health Center Foundation
Immediate Past Chair - Rob Leslie
Eide Bailly LLP
Chair Elect - Mike Crusa
City of Tempe
Secretary/Treasurer - Greg Ensell
Cox Communications
Member-At-Large - Tony Moya
SRP
Directors:
Victor Aranda
Wells Fargo
Ginny Arnett Caro
SCF Arizona
Cameron Black
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona
Dave Bolman
University of Advancing Technology
Harrison Brecht
ASU
Amy Buchan
Apollo Group
Julie Coleman
APS
Hon. Louis Frank Dominguez
Phoenix Municipal Court
Marci Hendrickson
Jokake Construction
Jenny Holsman Tetreault
ASU Alumni Association
Rebecca Kennell
Custom Financial Design
George Khalaf
ASU
Elizabeth Krecker
Iasis Healthcare
Anita Favela Luera
ASU Cronkite School of Journalism
Alberto Olivas
MCCCD
Benah Parker
Center for the Future
of Arizona
Tim Pickering
Interim Public Management
Eric Sloan
SLOAN LYONS Public Affairs
Brad Vynalek
Quarles & Brady, LLC
Brian Wood
Waste Management |
| Leadership Institute Financial Aid Fund | |
Pay It Forward In the midst of these tough economic times, small businesses, organizations and individuals are finding it increasingly difficult to pay tuition for their emerging and existing leaders to go through premier leadership development programs such as Leadership Institute. In order to ensure the ability of all outstanding candidates to participate in our program, we are establishing the Leadership Financial Aid Fund. If you were able to graduate from the Leadership Institute, and especially if someone else - an employer or sponsor - made this experience possible for you, please consider making a contribution and paying it forward to a future leader in need.
To make a donation to the Leadership Financial Aid Fund, or for more information, please contact Executive Director Frank McCune at 602.952.6760, ext. 1 or frank@valleyleadership.org. |
| Book of the Month | | |
Leadership Challenge
by James M. Kouzes and
Barry Z. Posner
Product description:
The most trusted resource on becoming a leader is now updated and revised for a new generation.
This leadership classic continues to be a bestseller after three editions and twenty years in print. It is the gold standard for research-based leadership, and the premier resource on becoming a leader. This new edition, with streamlined text, more international and business examples, and a graphic redesign, is more readable and accessible than ever before.
The Leadership Challenge, Fourth Edition, has been extensively updated with the latest research and case studies, and offers inspiring new stories of real people achieving extraordinary results. The authors' central theme remains the same and is more relevant today than ever: "Leadership is Everyone?s Business." Their "five practices" and "ten commitments" have been proven by hundreds of thousands of dedicated, successful leaders. This edition, with almost one-third new material, emphasizes the global community and refocuses on business leaders.
Click here to learn more about this book. |
| Quotes of the Month | | |
"Effective leadership is not about making speeches or being liked; leadership is defined by results, not attributes." -- Peter Drucker
"Men make history and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better." -- Harry S. Truman
"How will tomorrow be brighter by what you did today?"
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| Leadership Resources | |
manageBetter.biz
For more than three decades, Lawrence Ragan Communications, Inc., has been the leading publisher of corporate communications, public relations, and leadership development newsletters.
Ever since the launch of The Ragan Report in 1970, Ragan has provided the professional communicator and executives with timely, practical, and relevant information that few others can match. The Ragan brand now includes over 16 targeted newsletters in the areas of employee communication, organizational writing and editing, sales and marketing, media relations and motivational management. In addition to our newsletter division, Ragan produces several communications conferences, workshops, and senior-level forums throughout the United States. Ragan conferences draw more than 3,000 professionals annually and provide attendees with access to leading communicators, best practices and rich networking opportunities.
Click here to find out more.
manageBetter.biz sites:
Communication Solutions
Employee Recruitment & Retention
Leading for Results
Motivational Manager |
| Valley Leadership's Social Media Campaign | | |
5 Things You Can Do to Help VL Conquer Social Media:
1) Connect on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn
2) Friend/Follow other VL alumni
3) Suggest alumni connect with VL social media
4) Post on the wall
5) Share VL news and events with friends
Click on the following images to follow us on Twitter, friend us on Facebook or connect with us on LinkedIn:
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| We Want Your Stories! | | | Please take a moment to share your experiences and stories with us, so we can feature you in upcoming publications. Please send submissions (200 words or less) to Valley Leadership at vl@valleyleadership.org. |
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Chair's Corner with Michelle Hernandez,
Board Chair | |
 This month, I'd like to thank you all for your strong support of the 63rd Annual Man & Woman of the Year Luncheon. Valley Leadership was honored to recognize the impressive and inspiring community contributions of Jerry Lewkowitz and Sue Glawe, and the community's support of these two leaders was truly impressive. This annual event serves as the primary fundraiser for Valley Leadership, and I am proud to say that we welcomed over 1,000 guests and raised record funds to support our programming and operational costs. It is through such fundraising that we are able to continue engaging, educating and challenging our community's current and emerging leaders in new and insightful ways. Thank you to the event leadership of Amy Buchan, Milton Dellossier, and Sarah Krahenbuhl and the entire committee for the tremendous success of the event.
As we move onward from the Man & Woman of the Year Luncheon, we realize that the end of the program year rapidly approaches. Both Leadership Institute and Valley Teen Leadership have only two program days remaining - and VTL Class 16 will graduate in less than a month! At their last program day, Class 16 continued their journey by exploring downtown Phoenix through the use of the Metro light rail. LI Class 33 also had a twist on the usual program day when they welcomed the current Hispanic Leadership Institute class to participate in the most recent day, which explored Community Engagement.
As always, if you are interested in getting involved with any of our many programming opportunities, please feel free to contact the VL office. |
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Meet the Valley Leadership New Board Members | |
Valley Leadership welcomed several new board members for the 2011-12 program year. Get to know your new board members each month:
Brian Wood
Waste Management
Background:
I earned my BA in Communications from William Paterson University, NJ, and currently work with Waste Management as the Director of Operations for AZ.
Why you initially joined your Valley Leadership class:
I was drawn to VL based on a desire to learn more about our community, its leaders and the issues I can influence.
Why you joined the Board:
The VL experience was life-changing. The social and professional relationships developed are priceless. Serving on the VL board was the perfect opportunity to continue this journey.
One big goal for the year as a Board member:
Determine the consensus regarding the best and worst aspects of VL in order to improve the overall program and experience for all participants.
How can VL alumni help you achieve that goal?
Provide critical feedback concerning your VL experience and/or observations. Initiating honest discussion and participating with meaningful debate leads to progress and positive change. |
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Leadership Institute Class 34 Applications | | |
Applications Due April 13
for
Leadership Institute Class 34
Leadership Institute is the flagship program of Valley Leadership, which has developed leaders in the greater Phoenix community for 33 years. The nine-month program, from September through June, brings together a diverse mix of 50 emerging and current leaders each year. The class members connect with each other, our more than 1,700 alumni, and the wider community; learn about issues facing the Valley and the organizations dealing with these issues; and further develop the skills and desire to lead the community in finding solutions.
Any emerging or current leaders who live or work in the Valley or surrounding areas are encouraged to apply.
Ideal candidates should meet the following qualifications:
* Demonstrated volunteer service and/or leadership in one or more
community organizations
* Ability to share unique perspectives about different aspects of
issues facing our community
* A desire to commit time, talent or resources to improving the
Valley's quality of life.
The application is only available in electronic form:
All applications must be completed in full by 5:00pm,
Friday, April 13, 2012.
Questions can be directed to Craig Plenn, Program & Event Coordinator: (602) 952-6760, ext. 4 / email |
| Annual Member Dues Campaign | | |
Invest in Success!
 
Valley Leadership's annual member dues campaign is currently in full swing, and we encourage you to invest in the success of our organization. Valley Leadership can only strive to achieve our mission "to enhance the abilities of individuals to serve and strenghthen our communities" through the support of our alumni and friends in the community.
Many thanks to those who have already renewed your dues for 2011-12.
Membership Dues Levels:
$100 - discounts to alumni events and complimentary admission for one to a Community Dialogue Series event.
$250 - discounts to alumni events; two complimentary admissions for Community Dialogue Series event(s); one ticket to the 63rd Annual Man & Woman of the Year Luncheon ($120 value)
Payment of membership dues at all levels includes access to the online alumni directory, newsletter recognition and member discounts to Valley Leadership eventese.
Click here to learn about all the benefits associated with each membership level, or read below to learn more about our Community Stewards Society at the $500-and-up membership levels. |
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Community Stewards Society | | |
Discover the Benefits of Being a Community Steward
Please consider joining the ranks of our munity Stewards and support Valley Leadership at a higher level.
Membership in the Community Stewards Society comes with a myriad of benefits at all levels, including:
- Free attendance to specially arranged tours, programs, social events and Community Dialogues
- A complimentary gold Valley Leadership nametag designating your Community Stewards Society membership
- At least two tickets to Valley Leadership's annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards Luncheon ($240+ value)
- Annual membership dues are included
- Invitations to special receptions for Community Stewards
- Membership is subject to a tax deduction (please consult your tax advisor)
- Donor recognition on Valley Leadership's website for a full year, as well as in the Annual Summary of Accomplishments and the Man & Woman of the Year program
If you take advantage of all that a Community Stewards Society membership offers, it is an exceptional value - and you are also supporting Valley Leadership's mission "to enhance the abilities of leaders to serve and strengthen our communities." Click here to join the Community Stewards Society today. |
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Leadership Institute Program Day 6 Re-Cap: Education | | |
Leadership Institute Program Day 6 was a very interactive day focusing on "Your Role in Arizona Education" and included distinguished speakers and a hands-on experience addressing issues and problems. The day started off with Pearl Chang-Esau, President and CEO of Expect More Arizona, setting the foundation of the day and giving an overview of Arizona Education, which included discussion on the charter school systems. The morning also included a panel of "Education Stakeholders," including Steve Seleznow (CEO Arizona Community Foundation), Dr. Kent Scribner (Superintendent of Phoenix Union High School District), Amanda McAdams, 2011 Teacher of the Year, and Elaine Armfield (Class 32 alum and an involved parent from the Kyrene School District), who addressed the issues in education including teacher retention, pay, and support.
The afternoon included Dr. Craig Barrett, Chair of the Arizona Ready Education Council, who recommended making large changes to education practices, including hiring teachers who majored in the subjects they will teach and not education majors. Luis Avila, Interim Executive Director of Stand for Children, discussed education advocacy and engagement, and the program day closed with a presentation on Public Education by State Superintendent, John Huppenthal.
The highlight of the day was a three-part Education Prototype Activity, in which the class was placed into groups, and each group had to discuss an issue in Arizona education and come up with a solution to the problem given. The solution had to be illustrated in a creative manner, using art supplies given to each group, and then shared with the class at large. The second part of the prototype activity saw education coaches (including Dr. Lattie Coor, Chair & CEO of the Center for the Future of Arizona, Jaime Casap, Senior Education Evangelist at Google, Dr. Jeff Smith, Balsz Elementary School District Superintendent, and Dr. Gypsy Denzine, Dean, NAU College of Education, just to name a few) sit with the groups and discuss their solutions. The final piece of the prototype activity included revisions to the prototype and each group making a presentation on their solution to the entire class, which were judged by Program Day Chair, Joyce Medina, and committee members Mirna Lattouf and Elaine Armfield (all Class 32).
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Valley Teen Leadership Program Day 3 Re-Cap: Diversity & Equity | |
The teens traveled eastward to ASU Polytechnic for Program Day 3: Diversity and Equity. Objectives for the day included appreciation of the complexities and diversities of ourselves and of others; identifying how we define, recognize, and experience the various layers of diversity; and an overall awareness of the importance of diversity and equality. Teens learned how they each bring their own story to the table and that each individual is composed of his or her own struggles, experiences, goals, and privileges.
Teens were divided into groups and given a lemon. Each group created a life story for the lemon, which they related back to recognizing individual uniqueness.
Exercises included judging an unfamiliar face based solely off of a first impression andd giving a lemon its own life story. The contrasting stories that the teens came up with for each lemon helped to emphasize the fact that diversity is everywhere and that each person is unique. This day helped the teens recognize the beauty in each individual we encounter and that stereotypes are not a concrete value off of which impressions and opinions should be based.
During the Colors: Peer Pressure activity, Olivia Knecht (Cactus H.S.), Esteban Verdugo (Westview H.S.) and Sung Ho Park (Chaparral H.S.) attempt to convince and recruit Frankie Bui (Corona del Sol H.S.) to join their group.
Continue reading below to see more photos from Program Day 3. |
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Valley Teen Leadership Program Day 4 Re-Cap: Community Awareness | |
On the fourth day of the Valley Teen Leadership program, the teen leaders hit the streets of downtown Phoenix to see how this thriving city is comprised.
To start the day, the teens learned about the economic and social importance of a vibrant downtown. Author Jim McPherson, of HRA Analysts Inc., provided great insight on what the teens should have in mind while exploring the city. Jim provided exceptional background on the history of downtown Phoenix and how the downtown we know today has evolved.
A small group presents their ideas for an economically strong downtown.
The teens broke into different focus areas: Hospitality and Tourism, Commerce, Arts and Culture, Urban Living and Infrastructure. Each group was able to ride the Phoenix Metro light rail to destinations that complimented these focus areas, and then they reported back to their class on what they learned in their site visits. |
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Meet Class 33 | | |
MEGHAN COX
Meghan graduated from Arizona State University and is a Partner at Lincoln Strategy Group, where she works as a Public Affairs and Campaign Consultant.
Community Activities/Affiliations: Valley of the Sun 20/30 Group; Florence Crittenton Teaming Up For Kids Luncheon; ASU Barrett Honors College Alumni; ASU Women in Philanthropy; Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY); Cystic Fibrosis Foundation-Arizona.
My Mentor: Dave Loaney.
My Guiding Principle: "The price of greatness is responsibility." - Winston Churchill, and "Yesterday is gone. Tomorrow has not come. We have only today. Let us begin." - Mother Teresa.
MARCO HIDALGO
From El Paso, TX, and educated at the University of New Mexico, Marco is Director of Hispanic Youth Institute, Hispanic College Fund. In this role, he manages and implements a college access program in Phoenix and in New Mexico, establishing partnerships with other non-profits, federal agencies, corporations, and other groups to help high school students achieve the opportunity to attend college.
Community Activities/Affiliations: Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central New Mexico; Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure: Compadres for the Cure - Team Captain; HLI Class of 2011, NSHMBA-Phoenix.
My Mentor: Larry Sears, Manny Mora, Frank Carbajal, and Jorge Trevino.
My Guiding Principle: If it's worth doing, do it right. And, do it right the first time.
DEBORAH LOVING
Deborah attended the College of Alameda and Arizona State University and currently works as Foundation Manager at Mountain Park Health Center. Her responsibilties include overseeing internal and external fundraising for the MPHC Foundation, fostering relationships with outside organizations, raising awareness about MPHC and the services it offers, and developing the Foundation Board.
Community Activities/Affiliations: Volunteer at Andre House and American Express Community Service events.
My Mentor: Mildred A. Bonner (dec.).
My Guiding Principle: I want to make it matter that I am here, allowing my deed to be my creed.
BOB ROESSEL
Before Bob attended the University of New Mexico, he was educated in Navajo Nation. Today, he acts as Manager, Intergovernmental Affairs for SRP, in which he primarily focuses on American Indian-related activities and energy issues.
Community Activities/Affiliations: Phoenix Indian Center; Navajo Tribal Utility Authority; ASU's Del E. Webb Construction in Indian Country; Laveen Lions Club; Western Council of Construction Consumers.
My Mentor: My father, Robert A. Roessel, Jr.
My Guiding Prinicple: Always be honest and fair.
CHAD WELBORN
Chad attended Lake Forest College and completed his MBA at Loyola University (Chicago). He is Director of Investments for SCF Arizona, where he is responsible for the overall management of SCF's internal investment portfolio, comprised of company surplus and claims reserves. Chad moved to Arizona with his family two years ago to take this position.
Community Activities/Affiliations: Sonora Foothills Soccer Club - Coach; Labors Community Service Agency - Board Member.
My Mentor: My father.
My Guiding Principle: Work hard, treat people like you want to be treated, and have fun. |
| Leaders Making Waves | | |
Recognizing the Accomplishments of Valley Leadership Alumni
Have you taken on an exciting new job or been promoted? Have you recently been married or had a child? We want to hear about all your professional and personal milestones, so please keep us informed. We would like to share honors and accomplishments with your fellow alumni.
Junius Bowman (Founder), of Phoenix, AZ, passed away on February 26, 2012, at the age of 88. In 1978, he helped found Valley Leadership, laying the foundation for a legacy of leadership development in the Phoenix area.
Ernest Calderón (Class 7, 2004 Man of the Year) has been selected as the recipient of the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce 2012 Man of the Year Award, to be presented May 5 at the 54th Annual Black & White Business Awards.
Diana "Dede" Yazzie Devine (2003 Woman of the Year), CEO of Native American Connections, was recently named among the 25 Most Admired CEO's in Phoenix by the Phoenix Business Journal. Devine was also included among the Arizona's 49 Most Intriguing Women by Connie Robinson of the Arizona Legacy Project.
Gary Lowry (Class 18) and his wife, Marian Carol, have announced that they are taking their spiritual retreat ministry, Western Spirit Enrichment Center "on the road". After 11 years of offering individual and couples retreats at their facility near Sedona, they will be touring the United States and Canada for two years in their RV motor coach, offering retreats and workshops in numerous cities along the way.
Debra Paine (Class 27) was named Director of Development at Valley Youth Theatre.
Chuck Ribbe (Class 33), Chief Financial Officer at Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Goodyear, was recently honored as Finalist for the Top Hospital Executive Award by the AZ Business Magazine at the Healthcare Leadership Awards Recognition Reception on May 8th at the Arizona Biltmore.
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| Opportunities | | |
Educational Enterprises Job Opportunity
Position: Regional Executive Director (ED), Phoenix, AZ
Reports To: President/Chief Executive Officer of Educational Enterprises, Inc.
Anticipated Start Date: June 2012
Please see the full position posting and application requirments.
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| Alumni Contact Information Updates | | |
Help us keep you informed and in the loop!
If you've relocated or changed positions, or if you've noticed that you no longer receive mail from us, please take a moment to update your contact information for us.
You can also take this opportunity to change/update an email address or change the address that we recognize as your "Primary" location for our communication purposes.
You can update your contact information here.
Thank you in advance! We appreciate the opportunity to be in contact with each of you, and want to do our best to keep you updated on our many exciting events and opportunities. |
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Program and Event Photos | | |
Leadership Institute
Program Day 6: Education ; March 10, 2012  
Left: The Education Stakeholders Panel featured Steve Seleznow, CEO Arizona Community Foundation and former Deputy Director of US Education Programs at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Elaine Armfield (Class 32), involved parent, Amanda McAdams, 2011 AZ Teacher of the Year, and Dr. Kent Scribner, Superintendent, Phoenix Union High School District. Right: Class 33 small group members utilize specific craft materials to illustrate a solution to one of the problems in Arizona education.
Left: Class 33 small group members pitch their solution to Dr. Lattie Coor and Dr. Craig Barrett in an education Round Table. Right: Dr. Craig Barrett, Chair, AZ Ready Education Council and retired CEO/Chairman of Intel Corporation, speaks on the subject of Investing in Education.  
Left: After developing a solution and receiving coaching tips from the Round Table, another Class 33 small group presents their solution to the class. Right: AZ Superintendent of Public Instruction John Huppenthal speaks about Public Education in Arizona.
Valley Teen Leadership
Program Days 3 & 4; March 10 and 24, 2012
Left: Teens were instructed to line up in order from oldest to youngest without using words. They came so close! Right: Ruchi
Kirtikar (Desert Mountain H.S.) and team tell their lemon's "life story."
Left: The Arts & Culture group stops in front of a mural in the Roosevelt Row district. Right: After touring the Westin Downtown and Greater Phoenix Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Hospitality and Tourism group reports back the class on their experience.
63rd Annual Man & Woman of the Year Luncheon
March 22, 2012
Left: Valley Leadership Chair Michelle Hernandez (Class 23), Cassandra Mason-Motz (Class 6), and Immediate Past Chair Rob Leslie (Class 24). Right: 2006 Woman of the Year Luz Sarmina, VL Chair-Elect Mike Crusa (Class 1), and Kendra Cea (Class 22).
Left: 1973 Man of the Year Bill Shover and 1951 Woman of the Year Marjorie Suggs. Right: 2011 Woman of the Year honoree Sue Glawe speaks.
Left: 2011 Man of the Year Jerry Lewkowitz entertains the audience. Right: Marisol Miller (Class 25), Laura French (Class 29), Marisa Walker (Class 32), and Cassidy Campana (Class 25).
Left: Chrissy Jones (Class 11), Carmela Ramirez, and Rebecca Kennell (Class 29). Right: Valley Teen Leadership class members and alumni.
Left: Gene D'Adamo (Class 18), honoree Sue Glawe, and 2010 Woman of the Year Sam Campana. Right: Dave Bolman Katie Campana, Jessica Catlin, Benah and Amy Heisler
Left: Laura Etter, Eric Sloan (Class 28), Dave Bolman, and Darren Viner. Right: Valley Leadership Executive Director Frank McCune, Luncheon Event Immediate Past Chair Amy Buchan (Class 31), Luncheon Event Co-Chair Sarah Krahenbuhl (Class 32), and Luncheon Event Chair Milton Dellossier (Class 29).
Above: Former Men & Women of the Year honorees. |
| Special Thanks to our 2011-2012 Premier Leadership Sponsors | |
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| Thank You to our 2011-2012 Valley Leadership Sponsors and Collaborators | |
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Valley Leadership's monthly newsletter is designed to link a dynamic and diverse group of leaders together. Read our Leadership Connection news each month to learn about alumni opportunities, special announcements, personal and professional updates on your colleagues, and much more. Be sure to keep in touch and let us know how you are leaving a "legacy of leadership" in the Valley of the Sun. Comments and member news are welcome and encouraged. They can be sent to the Valley Leadership Office at vl@valleyleadership.org or phone at 602.952.6760 ext. 3.
Leadership Connection is published by Valley Leadership
2700 North 3rd Street, Suite 2009, Phoenix, AZ 85004
602.952.6760, www.valleyleadership.org |
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