REGISTRATION & BREAKFAST
Registration opens at 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 7. Welcome Remarks begin at 8:45 a.m. We encourage attendees to arrive early to avoid check-in lines, secure your seat and enjoy a light continental breakfast and networking!
PARKING
Parking for AZ WLG is available in the Phoenix Convention Center East Garage, located at: 601 E Washington St, Phoenix, AZ 85004.
Rates are $20 each day for parking if you enter any time before 12:00 p.m.
After 12:00 p.m. rates increase to $30.
You can pay on entrance with credit or debit card (no cash).
Conference Parking Map
CONFERENCE APP
We encourage all Conference Attendees to stay connected and interact during the conference through the conference app. To download the AZ WLG Conference mobile app, scan the QR code below or go HERE
Please Note: The app will open to LACT and you can download it to your phone. Even if you have used the app before you must recreate an account with a new password. You need to do this for each new event.PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS AVAILABLE AT THE AZ WLG CONFERENCE!
Need a professional headshot? Want to update your current headshot? Back by popular demand, Nonni Lee will be available all day on Thursday, November 7, during the conference to take professional headshots. The Fee is $45, and you can schedule your appointment now in link below.
To schedule your professional headshot, click HERE.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out directly to Nonni at nonnileephotography@gmail.com
ATTENDEE LIST
To view the current attendee list for this conference please HERE.
SPECIAL RECEPTION AT HANNY’S RESTAURANT ON THURSDAY
Please join us at Hanny’s Restaurant, a five-minute walk from the convention center, on Thursday evening following the conference sessions for networking, light hors d’oeuvres and a complimentary drink.
HANNY’S
Conference Reception Map
DRESS FOR SUCCESS DONATION DRIVE
Coordinated in partnership with Phoenix Women in Leadership
The mission of Dress for Success Phoenix is to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life.During the conference, we will be collecting the following items:
- Gently used professional business attire for Men and Women (All Sizes)
- Shoes, handbags, accessories
- Blazers Petite Plus sizes 14-24
- Dress Pants Petite Plus sizes 14-24
- Blazers Women's 18-24
- Dress Pants Women's 18-24
To view the flyer, click HERE.
GET SOCIAL!
Don’t forget to follow AZ WLG on …
Make sure to use the hashtag #AZWLG24 when posting about the conference!
To contact Arizona Women Leading Government (AZ WLG) please email WLG@AZLeague.org.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7
Registration & Continental Breakfast
7:30 AM | South Ballroom Lobby
Welcome
8:45 AM | South Ballroom
Conference Day 1 Emcee:
Olivia Fierro, Conference Day 1 Emcee and Host, Storyteller & Media Consultant
Olivia Fierro – Bio
Olivia Fierro is a communications specialist who works as a media trainer and public speaking coach, event emcee, keynote speaker, and brand partner to aligned businesses and non-profits. Olivia Fierro’s energy, curiosity, sense of purpose and professionalism led her to two decades of career success in television news along with several “Best Of” designations, a Regional EMMY, and a Murrow Award. Stepping away from the newsroom in 2023, Olivia committed to becoming the architect of her own future: nurturing her creative spirit, dedicating time to growing her own communications business, and helping elevate the family business, Tequila Corrido.
Still talking nonstop, Olivia can be heard on both the wellness podcast, “Hope You’re Feeling Good,” with esteemed Valley health expert, Dr. Art Mollen, and continues to share her love of books as the host of “Olivia’s Book Club,” and columnist for Paradise Valley City Lifestyle Magazine. A first-generation college graduate, Olivia remains committed to being an example of the powerful opportunities possible only through education. She is a Pathways mentor, a SCORE business mentee, a member of the VSUW Women United Steering Committee and new addition to the Circle the City Board of Directors.
Education UCLA, BA in Women’s Studies, BA in History Wharton, Certification in Corporate Governance UCLA Extension, Certification in Broadcast Journalism
Three Pillars of a Champion
9:00 - 10:30 AM | South Ballroom
Discover the secrets to building a champion both on and off the field. Jay Parry, who led Arizona’s efforts to crown multiple national sports champions, including for the 2023 Super Bowl and the 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four tournament, will share The Three Pillars of a Champion. First, in creating a winning mindset in the ‘locker room’ of our daily tasks, by fostering teamwork and resilience. Second, in the conference room, where leadership and strategic thinking drive success. Finally, in the boardroom, translating these principles into executive decisions that propel organizations to new heights.
Speakers:
Jay Parry, President & CEO, Arizona Major Events
Jay Parry – Bio
Jay Parry is an accomplished business executive, board member and servant leader with a passion for sports and an even bigger passion for giving. In addition to serving as the driving force behind several major sporting events and professional sports franchises, she has remained equally committed to uplifting underserved communities. Today, Jay is the President and CEO, Arizona Major Events Host Committee. In that capacity she has led the Host Committees for the last two major sporting events in Arizona. Most recently as the CEO, Phoenix Local Organizing Committee, host to the 2024 NCAA Men’s Final Four at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. And prior to that, she led the state’s efforts for the 2023 Super Bowl LVII (57), as the President and CEO of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, which was the most viewed telecast in history.
In 2016, Jay was tapped by the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) to be the Chief Operating Officer of the league in New York. As a visionary leader, Jay led the business and strategy functions, successfully expanding the business and the game globally. Prior to that, as the President and CEO, Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee where she oversaw all aspects of planning and executing a record-breaking Super Bowl XLIX (49) held in Arizona in 2015.
Jay has spent her career building businesses and sports franchises to a championship level. She kicked off her career at Bank of America, where she rose to the bank’s senior ranks as Executive Vice President. Then she was recruited to lead the Phoenix Mercury, a Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) franchise as President and Chief Operating Officer. Following seven successful seasons with the Phoenix Mercury, she moved to an executive role with the Phoenix Suns, a National Basketball Association (NBA) franchise where she led all customer-facing activities as Senior Vice President of Brand and Business Development.
Based on her deep roots in women’s basketball and women’s initiatives, she is looking forward to leading the planning and execution efforts for the 2026 NCAA Women’s Final Four, that will be played at Footprint Center April 3 and 5, 2026.
Documents:
Three Pillars of a Champion Presentation
Concurrent Sessions
10:45 - 11:45 AM | Rooms 160-167
- Financial Wellness | 160-161
Finances don't have to be scary or intimidating. Women can be empowered and energized when they think about their financial life. In this session, attendees will learn a 7-step plan to build a solid financial foundation, shed financial anxiety, and make their money work for them. In this session, Heather will guide you through her 7 Steps to Build a Solid Financial Foundation. Key takeaways will include how much to save, where to put your money, how to protect your wealth, why not all debt is bad, and how to save while still enjoying your life.
Speaker:
Heather Townsend, Financial Planner & Founder, Townsend Financial
Heather Townsend – Bio
Heather Townsend is a CFP® (Certified Financial Planner™), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CSLP® (Certified Student Loan Professional), and RLP® (Registered Life Planner). She started Townsend Financial in 2018, a fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm, and in 2020, was named as one of the top Financial Advisors for Millennials by Business Insider. She currently serves over 45 households as their personal CFO.
Documents:
Financial Wellness Presentation
- Mentoring Made Easy | 162-163
Mentoring is magic and there are benefits to both the mentor and mentee! But, how exactly do you mentor someone and how as a mentee, do you make the most of the relationship? This session will describe the journey of the City of Glendale to develop its first formal mentoring program. By the end of the session, you will understand the benefits of mentorship and benefits of a formal, purpose-built mentoring program. You will also learn some mentoring best practices and hear about the program experience from both a mentor and mentee perspective.
Speakers:
Arlene Chemello, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Glendale
Vicki Rios, Assistant City Manager, Glendale
Sonia Sarmiento, Field Operations Administrator, Glendale
Candace Schulte, Human Services Coordinator, Glendale
Michelle Woytenko, Director of Field Operations, Glendale
Storm Vance, Client Experience Officer, Art of Mentoring
Arlene Chemello – Bio
Arlene Chemello has over 20-years of experience with the City of Glendale and is currently serving as the Deputy CIO.
Ms. Chemello is a proven information technology leader with experience in implementing innovative technology solutions to support and advance service quality, efficiency, transparency, and data driven decision making. She is a collaborative leader with broad range of financial, project management, and leadership expertise. Ms. Chemello has been an advocate and co-Program Manager for the City’s first formal mentoring program at the City of Glendale.
Ms. Chemello holds a B.S. in Accounting from Babson College and a Master of Science in Information Systems Engineering from Western International University. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
Vicki Rios – Bio
Vicki Rios started with the city of Glendale in December of 2013, as the Assistant Finance Director and since May of 2019 she has been serving as Assistant City Manager.
Prior to working in Glendale, her career included positions at the City of Phoenix, the City of Peoria, AZ and Arizona State University in various roles.
Ms. Rios holds a B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Irvine and, a Post-baccalaureate Certificate in Accountancy, and M.B.A., from Arizona State University. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Government Finance Officers Association, Arizona City/County Manager’s Association, NFBPA, and ICMA.
Sonia Sarmiento – Bio
Sonia Sarmiento is a CIP Administrator for Facilities Management at the City of Glendale, where she has been working since 2021. She began as a CIP Project Manager and now oversees and supports various capital improvement plan projects.
Before her role at the City of Glendale, Sonia worked as a structural engineer at M3 Engineering in Tucson, Arizona, and GreenbergFarrow in Atlanta, Georgia.
She holds a Bachelor and Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona and is a licensed Professional Engineer. In her leisure time, Sonia enjoys spending time outdoors and with her family.
Candace Schulte – Bio
Candace Schulte is the Human Services Coordinator for the City of Glendale Community Services.
Her main responsibilities include coordinating the city's response to homelessness and managing its HUD Grant agreements with community partners. Candace's role involves translating complex HUD language into terms that nonprofit staff can understand, and she assists them in administering their unique programs in a grant-compliant manner.
Candace holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from Arizona State University and has over 20 years of experience in Social Services. She is a proud Arizona native who has lived in Glendale, AZ all her life and raised her family there.
Michelle Woytenko – Bio
Michelle Woytenko has been with the city for 9 years, the last 7 in her role as Field Operations Director. Michelle has worked for local governments and private sector for over 30 years, across North America and Europe. Michelle is a co-Program Manager for the City’s first formal mentoring program at the City of Glendale.
She holds a Bachelor and Master of Science in Geology from the University of Alberta and has held teaching positions at Western International University. Michelle is a former board member for Women Leading Government, a member of the inaugural board and was instrumental in developing the bylaws.
Storm Vance – Bio
Storm Vance brings a wealth of experience and expertise to mentorship and leadership development as a program designer and workshop leader using Art of Mentoring's methodologies. Storm is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for a diverse international client portfolio, including corporate, government, and association clients.
With extensive experience in curriculum development and instruction, Storm ensures that content is tailored to each group's specific needs and learning goals. She is experienced in many educational settings, leading academic programming, coaching instructional teams, and serving extensively across departments. Storm holds a master's degree in educational administration from Concordia University and is a trusted leader in creating impactful and sustainable mentoring programs.
Documents:
Mentoring Made Easy Presentation
- Leading With Perseverance and Grace As An Elected Official | 164-165
Mayors and Councilmembers from growing towns and cities in Arizona will share their insight as they navigated their career within local government and earned their seat as an elected official. This diverse and esteemed panel has amassed a great deal of wisdom as they approached challenges head-on and inspired their organization along the way. Join this moving session to hear more about each panelist’s story of resilience and strength and how they are shaping the future for women in elected roles within the state.
Facilitator:
Jessica Mensch, Video Producer, Glendale - Career Advancing Research | 166-167
This educational and career advancing session will consist of a panel of female academics who will discuss research in women leading government organizations such as counties, cities and towns as well as diversity in local government. This includes executive-level roles to public office, mentoring, and the emotional labor that is critical in the government sector.
Speakers:
Shannon Portillo, PhD, Director and Coor Presidential Chair, School of Public Affairs, Watts College of Public Service, Arizona State University
Dr. Sara Rinfret, PhD Professor of Public Administration & Director, Northern Arizona University
Dr. April Townsend, EdD Research Fellow, Utah Women & Leadership Project, Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Utah State University
Shannon Portillo – Bio
Shannon Portillo serves as director and Coor Presidential Chair in the School of Public Affairs at Arizona State University. Dr. Portillo’s scholarship explores how formal policies and rules and informal social norms shape the work of public organizations. She is specifically interested in how racism and sexism impact organizations and workers’ experiences both historically and currently. Her work helps scholars and practitioners understand how inequities have been institutionalized in public organizations, including courts, policing, city management, higher education, and the military. Her research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, Women’s Foundation, the Army Research Institute, and other entities. Her work has appeared in a broad array of academic and popular outlets. She has been recognized for her scholarship and service, recently being inducted into the National Academy of Public Administration, winning the Hobby Prize for Ethics, Leadership and Public Policy, and receiving the Steeples Service to Kansas Award. Her third book, The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality: An Examination of Merit and Representation (with co-authors Nicole Humphrey and Domonic Bearfield), was published with Routledge Press. Community service is a core value. Dr. Portillo served as Co-Chair of Governor Laura Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice and was elected Chair of the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners.
Dr. Sara Rinfret – Bio
Dr. Sara R. Rinfret is currently an Associate Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs, MPA Director, and Professor of Public Administration at Northern Arizona University. She has more than a decade of higher education leadership experience serving in roles such as Acting Dean, Associate Dean, Chair, and Master of Public Administration Director. Her scholarship is globally recognized in the areas of regulatory policy, environmental policy, women and government, public administration, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. To date, Rinfret has published 9 books and more than 45 peer reviewed articles, and several book chapters. Rinfret is an experienced leader, designing training and development for faculty, staff, state, local, and federal government, focusing on areas such as emotional labor, performance measurement approaches, program evaluation, policy implementation, and holistic teaching evaluations. Dr. Rinfret holds an MPA from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs (Ohio State), and PhD in political science from Northern Arizona University.
Dr. April Townsend – Bio
April Townsend EdD is a Research Fellow with the Utah Women & Leadership Project. Her primary research interests are women’s career and leadership development. She is a scholar practitioner with over 30 years of public sector expertise in organizational and team effectiveness, strategic leadership, and change management. She belongs to the International City/County Managers Association and the American Society for Public Administration, where she is a regular contributor on leadership topics. She is a certified coach credentialed with the International Coaching Federation. Her academic degrees include a doctorate in Educational Leadership and a Master’s in Organizational Management.
Documents:
Career Advancing Research Presentation
Speakers:
Mila Besich, Mayor, Town of Superior
Khara House, Councilmember, City of Flagstaff
Nancy Smith, Mayor, City of Maricopa
Hannah Toth, Councilmember, Town of Fountain Hills
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons, Mayor-Elect, City of Casa Grande
Jessica Mensch – Bio
Jessica Mensch is an Emmy® Award-winning communications professional with over a decade of expertise in television news and government communications. As a Video Producer for the City of Glendale, Arizona, Jessica is responsible for producing, writing, shooting and editing a wide range of dynamic content for both internal and public audiences. Her videos spotlight key community initiatives and events, reflecting the city’s energy and commitment to its residents.
In her three years with Glendale, Jessica’s work has earned significant recognition, including a Rocky Mountain Emmy Award and four additional nominations. Her standout projects range from covering Super Bowl LVII and major economic development efforts to highlighting the construction of a regional park lake. She also played an instrumental role in the city's innovative campaign to temporarily rename itself “Swift City” to celebrate Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour kickoff, an initiative that garnered a prestigious Savvy Award and a feature in PHOENIX Magazine's 'Best of the Valley' edition for 'Best Marketing Idea.'
Before her role with the city, Jessica built a successful journalism career as a reporter, anchor and multimedia journalist in various television markets across the U.S., most recently in Sacramento, California. Her reporting has taken her from the front lines of wildfires to covering presidential campaigns and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work earned numerous accolades, including a Mid-America Emmy for investigative reporting.
Mila Besich – Bio
Mila Besich is a lifelong resident of Superior, Arizona. Elected in 2016 as Mayor of Superior, she has played a key role in leading her community through the Resolution Copper Environmental Impact Statement while also actively galvanizing and leading collaborative region-wide initiatives to preserve the majestic beauty of her town and Arizona’s Copper Corridor region. Mila’s strong and focused leadership as well as her problem-solving acumen has been recognized nationally and globally, including U.S. and international media outlets, and public officials, Hispanic, women’s and other organizations.
Collaborating, communicating and connecting groups and organizations are critical skills that Mila uses to accomplish her many public service, volunteer and business projects. Mila was elected to the Superior Town Council in 2013 and previously served on the Superior Unified School District Governing board since for a decade. As an actively engaged member of the community and region, Mila has a pulse on rural communities and their needs.
She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Pinal County Regional Transportation Authority and is the Treasurer for the Executive Committee of the Arizona League of Cities and Towns, as well as a member of the National League of Cities Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee and a member of the EPA Local Government Advisory Committee. Mila also is on the Board of Directors of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Rebuild Superior Inc.
She is a Flinn Brown Fellow and Graduate of the Valle del Sol Hispanic Leadership Institute.
Khara House – Bio
Khara House was appointed to the Flagstaff City Council in May 2022. Khara came to Flagstaff in 2009 to study English at Northern Arizona University, graduating in 2011. After teaching at NAU, Khara began a career in multifamily housing in 2013. Her passion for service and community engagement has led to membership with NAACP Flagstaff, Coconino County’s African Diaspora Advisory Council, the Southside Community Association, NAMI Flagstaff, Flagstaff Young Professionals, and several other community and service organizations. Prior to her appointment to Council, Khara served on the City’s Commission on Diversity Awareness and Housing Commission.
Khara earned a Bachelor’s degree in English at Messiah University (formerly Messiah College) in Pennsylvania, and completed her Master’s degree in English at Northern Arizona University.
Khara believes in making a difference in her community and hopes to have a positive impact on others and society. Her studies in English were inspired by a lifelong love of reading and writing. She is also a devoted lover of movies, music (and karaoke), and the arts. Her background in education and championing diversity, equity and inclusion continue to reflect in community conversations, organizational DEI training, and occasional poetry workshops. Khara is a passionate advocate for mental and behavioral health awareness and acceptance, diversity, housing, and meaningful community engagement. Most of all, Khara values altruism, desiring more than anything else to be of service, elevate the voices that often go unheard in the community, and create lasting and meaningful partnerships and relationships to cultivate thriving community.
Nancy Smith – Bio
Mayor Smith graduated at the top of her class with a degree in Electronic Technology and was immediately hired by Motorola. While working for Motorola, she furthered her education by earning a degree in Business Management. She has spent the majority of her career in military technology and project management for major government programs. During her time at Motorola, she expanded her expertise by specializing in finance and budgeting. She deepened her experience in project management when she accepted a new position at General Dynamics. The skills and talents she developed at Motorola and General Dynamics are directly transferable to the duties and responsibilities of the Maricopa City Council.
Mayor Smith moved to Maricopa prior to the city's incorporation and has continuously served in various capacities since then. She is one of the co-founders and a former board member of the F.O.R. Maricopa food bank. She also served as Co-Chair of the American Cancer Society's Maricopa Relay for Life, initiated the Middle School Rocket Challenge, created the Senior Lunch & Learn program, co-founded Maricopa Friends of the Arts, and recently started a partnership between senior volunteers and transportation services to facilitate Senior Day Trips. She has a passion for non-profits and enjoys serving in church, school committees, and various city-wide events. Mayor Smith also participated in and graduated from the first Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy.
She was honored to be invited to serve as a board member of the Pinal Partnership Board of Directors, a member of the MAG (Maricopa Association of Governments) Regional Council, the MAG Economic Development Committee, and the League of Arizona Cities and Towns Executive Board. In these roles, Mayor Smith dedicates time to ensuring that the City of Maricopa's and regional needs and visions are represented. She focuses particularly on transportation, infrastructure, and economic development.
She is the proud mother of two children and a trusted mentor to a large extended family. In their free time, her husband and family enjoy watching their grandchildren play sports and cheering on their favorite college and professional teams. Although Arizona is not her birth state, she thoroughly loves living in Arizona and considers herself a native.
Mayor Smith served eight years as a Council Member/Vice Mayor and was selected to complete the remainder of former Mayor Christian Price's term on Tuesday, August 16, 2022. She was elected Mayor in August 2024. Nancy is focused on an agenda that builds a strong and sustainable economy, moving Maricopa from a bedroom community to a place where people live, work, and play, creating a thriving and enduring community.
Hannah Toth – Bio
Hannah Toth has lived in Fountain Hills her whole life and is now the Town's youngest ever Council woman at 24 years old! She is a graduate of Arizona State University with Bachelor’s degrees in Sports Business and Business Law as well as a certificate in Business Data Analytics. Hannah is a member of the Four Peaks Rotary Club, Fountain Hills Elk's Lodge, American Legion Auxiliary Chapter, and is a Fountain Hills Leadership Academy 2022 graduate.
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons – Bio
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons moved to Casa Grande in the early 1970’s, attended elementary school and high school in Casa Grande. After graduating, she earned a BS degree at Arizona State University. Her work experience includes time with the Xerox Corporation, Arizona Governor’s Office, Shearson Lehman Brothers in New York City and, more specifically, at Pepsi-Cola Company (Phoenix) for 10 years. Upon returning to Casa Grande to raise her family, she worked for United Way of Pinal County and Fidelity National Title. For the past 17 years Lisa has been part of their family business, Fitzgibbons Law Offices, as the Director of Marketing and Business Development. In April 2010, she was selected to serve on the Casa Grande City Council to fill a vacancy. In 2011, she was elected to her first term on council and is serving her third term in office. She served for the second time as Mayor Pro Tem in 2020 and also served in 2014. On July 30, 2024, she was elected as Mayor Elect and will be sworn into office on December 2, 2024. She currently serves on various Boards, including; The Latino Familia Initiative Board of Directors (Currently Treasurer/Past President); Founding member of the Hispanic Leadership Institute(HLI-Pinal); Cesar Chavez Memorial Committee, The Faith Alliance Executive Committee, Mayors Task Force on Homelessness (Founding Member), and on the Board of Directors for Child & Family Resources. She previously served on the St. Anthony’s School Board, CAHRA Board of Directors, CGUHS Site Council and the Celebrating Women of Today and Tomorrow committee. In 2010, she received the Latino Advocacy Award from Valle Del Sol, a state wide organization that honors leaders in the Latino community. She has been married to her husband Denis for 34 years and has 3 daughters, two son-in-laws and two grandsons.
12:00 – 1:00 PM | South Ballroom
Moderator:
Brandie Ishcomer Barrett, President, AZ WLG Board of Directors and Assistant Director, Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department, Phoenix
Guest Speaker:
Kate Gallego, Mayor, Phoenix
City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego will welcome the AZ WLG to Phoenix
Brandie Ishcomer Barrett – Bio
Brandie Ishcomer Barrett currently serves as a Assistant Director for City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department. In this role, Brandie manages the Administrative Services Division consisting of the department’s fiscal, procurement, information technology, communications, environmental quality, badging and alarm services, and field invoice management services, with management responsibility for a $315 million operating budget, a $172 million five-year capital improvement program and for $427M in procurement administration. In her prior role, she established the Community and Government Relations Division for the city’s Solid Waste Services division, and was responsible for providing cross-disciplinary leadership, and implementing circular economy and economic development initiatives in support of the city’s Reimagine Phoenix Initiative to improve diversion from landfill and achieve zero waste by 2050.
During her 18+ years of local government experience, Brandie has managed a multitude of high-profile activities, including the city’s fleet of 7,500 pieces of equipment, which was recognized with a Government Green Fleet award. She has presented policy alternatives to the City Council on a diverse range of citywide programs and issues. Brandie holds a Master of Arts from the University of Arizona and a Bachelor of Arts from Mount Holyoke College.
Kate Gallego– Bio
Since her early days serving Phoenix on the City Council, Kate has been focused on creating the Phoenix of the future: a welcoming, thriving city with ample high-wage jobs and opportunities for all.
As mayor, Kate spends every day focused on getting things done for Phoenix families. The results speak for themselves: Kate brought a historic $65 billion semiconductor manufacturing plant to Phoenix that’s creating thousands of great-paying career paths; she built coalitions to deliver critical improvements to parks, public safety, and city infrastructure; and she is partnering with ASU to build a brand-new medical school in downtown Phoenix.
Kate is the second elected woman mayor in Phoenix history and one of the youngest big city mayors in the nation. She graduated from Harvard and holds an MBA from the Wharton School of Business. Though serving Phoenicians keeps her days busy and her heart full, her favorite job is being Michael’s mom.
Women Leading in Excellence Award
The Women Leading in Excellence Award winner will be recognized. This award is bestowed to an individual who is committed to the advancement of women into leadership positions within local government in Arizona. AZ WLG believes that some ways that this can be accomplished includes leading by example, mentoring and expanding the boundaries of women’s contributions within the public sector.
Courage Over Confidence: Owning Your Influence and Overcoming the Myth of Readiness
1:00 – 2:00 PM | South Ballroom
If you’re ready to amplify your impact, this fast-paced session will equip you with tools and strategies to make exactly the kind of mark you want to make. We’ll tackle some of the most common barriers to success, and we’ll workshop ways to lead with authenticity and build courage so you can move from ideas to actions and make meaningful change that fulfills your goals. You’ll leave feeling empowered and equipped to continue cultivating a career and life on your own terms.
Speakers:
Nicole Lance, CEO, Lance Strategies
Khala Stanfield, Director, Public Sector Advisory, Baker Tilly Advisory Group, LP
Nicole Lance – Bio
Nicole Lance is an internationally certified coach best known for working with individuals and teams who are ready to make courageous transformations. Having spent almost 13 years in local government before wrapping up her career as an Assistant City Manager, Nicole now spends her time coaching, speaking, facilitating, and leading women's leadership development programs. Nicole is the author of three books, Awesome on Your Own Terms: Stop Shoulding and Start Succeeding, which hit #1 in multiple categories on Amazon, book #2 Hot Tub Mommy: Do All Moms Swear This Much? in August of 2024, and the newly released Bold on the Inside: Amplify Your Impact Without Raising Your Voice. She spends her free time trying not to step on the Legos her daughter leaves dangerously hidden in the carpet. You can learn more about her at www.nicolelance.co [nicolelance.co]
Khala Stanfield – Bio
Khala Stanfield is a director with Baker Tilly’s public sector practice. She has more than 25 years of public sector experience with 10 years of experience in achieving large scale organizational growth by facilitating strategic planning processes, conducting qualitative analysis and industry related research for strategy portfolios and developing fact-based recommendations for leaders to enable critical decisions.
As a trusted advisor, she has identified hidden opportunities and developed innovative solutions in collaboration with key stakeholders to help deliver results. Khala also leverages her adaptive leadership skills to empower individuals and teams to achieve their goals and objectives.
Khala has held leadership in her career journey with the cities of Phoenix, Surprise, Goodyear, Glendale the State of Arizona and Arizona State University. She is certified in Balanced Scorecard and has Google Project Management and Lean Six Sigma Black Belt certifications.
Documents:
Courage Over Confidence Presentation
Concurrent Sessions
2:15 - 3:15 AM | Rooms 160-167
- Financial Wellness | 160-161
Finances don't have to be scary or intimidating. Women can be empowered and energized when they think about their financial life. In this session, attendees will learn a 7-step plan to build a solid financial foundation, shed financial anxiety, and make their money work for them. In this session, Heather will guide you through her 7 Steps to Build a Solid Financial Foundation. Key takeaways will include how much to save, where to put your money, how to protect your wealth, why not all debt is bad, and how to save while still enjoying your life.
Speaker:
Heather Townsend, Financial Planner & Founder, Townsend Financial
Heather Townsend – Bio
Heather Townsend is a CFP® (Certified Financial Planner™), CPA (Certified Public Accountant), CSLP® (Certified Student Loan Professional), and RLP® (Registered Life Planner). She started Townsend Financial in 2018, a fee-only fiduciary financial planning firm, and in 2020, was named as one of the top Financial Advisors for Millennials by Business Insider. She currently serves over 45 households as their personal CFO.
Documents:
Financial Wellness Presentation
- Mentoring Made Easy | 162-163
Mentoring is magic and there are benefits to both the mentor and mentee! But, how exactly do you mentor someone and how as a mentee, do you make the most of the relationship? This session will describe the journey of the City of Glendale to develop its first formal mentoring program. By the end of the session, you will understand the benefits of mentorship and benefits of a formal, purpose-built mentoring program. You will also learn some mentoring best practices and hear about the program experience from both a mentor and mentee perspective.
Speakers:
Arlene Chemello, Deputy Chief Information Officer, Glendale
Vicki Rios, Assistant City Manager, Glendale
Sonia Sarmiento, Field Operations Administrator, Glendale
Candace Schulte, Human Services Coordinator, Glendale
Michelle Woytenko, Director of Field Operations, Glendale
Storm Vance, Client Experience Officer, Art of Mentoring
Arlene Chemello – Bio
Arlene Chemello has over 20-years of experience with the City of Glendale and is currently serving as the Deputy CIO.
Ms. Chemello is a proven information technology leader with experience in implementing innovative technology solutions to support and advance service quality, efficiency, transparency, and data driven decision making. She is a collaborative leader with broad range of financial, project management, and leadership expertise. Ms. Chemello has been an advocate and co-Program Manager for the City’s first formal mentoring program at the City of Glendale.
Ms. Chemello holds a B.S. in Accounting from Babson College and a Master of Science in Information Systems Engineering from Western International University. She is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and certified Project Management Professional (PMP).
Vicki Rios – Bio
Vicki Rios started with the city of Glendale in December of 2013, as the Assistant Finance Director and since May of 2019 she has been serving as Assistant City Manager.
Prior to working in Glendale, her career included positions at the City of Phoenix, the City of Peoria, AZ and Arizona State University in various roles.
Ms. Rios holds a B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of California, Irvine and, a Post-baccalaureate Certificate in Accountancy, and M.B.A., from Arizona State University. She is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of the Government Finance Officers Association, Arizona City/County Manager’s Association, NFBPA, and ICMA.
Sonia Sarmiento – Bio
Sonia Sarmiento is a CIP Administrator for Facilities Management at the City of Glendale, where she has been working since 2021. She began as a CIP Project Manager and now oversees and supports various capital improvement plan projects.
Before her role at the City of Glendale, Sonia worked as a structural engineer at M3 Engineering in Tucson, Arizona, and GreenbergFarrow in Atlanta, Georgia.
She holds a Bachelor and Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Arizona and is a licensed Professional Engineer. In her leisure time, Sonia enjoys spending time outdoors and with her family.
Candace Schulte – Bio
Candace Schulte is the Human Services Coordinator for the City of Glendale Community Services.
Her main responsibilities include coordinating the city's response to homelessness and managing its HUD Grant agreements with community partners. Candace's role involves translating complex HUD language into terms that nonprofit staff can understand, and she assists them in administering their unique programs in a grant-compliant manner.
Candace holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from Arizona State University and has over 20 years of experience in Social Services. She is a proud Arizona native who has lived in Glendale, AZ all her life and raised her family there.
Michelle Woytenko – Bio
Michelle Woytenko has been with the city for 9 years, the last 7 in her role as Field Operations Director. Michelle has worked for local governments and private sector for over 30 years, across North America and Europe. Michelle is a co-Program Manager for the City’s first formal mentoring program at the City of Glendale.
She holds a Bachelor and Master of Science in Geology from the University of Alberta and has held teaching positions at Western International University. Michelle is a former board member for Women Leading Government, a member of the inaugural board and was instrumental in developing the bylaws.
Storm Vance – Bio
Storm Vance brings a wealth of experience and expertise to mentorship and leadership development as a program designer and workshop leader using Art of Mentoring's methodologies. Storm is dedicated to providing exceptional experiences for a diverse international client portfolio, including corporate, government, and association clients.
With extensive experience in curriculum development and instruction, Storm ensures that content is tailored to each group's specific needs and learning goals. She is experienced in many educational settings, leading academic programming, coaching instructional teams, and serving extensively across departments. Storm holds a master's degree in educational administration from Concordia University and is a trusted leader in creating impactful and sustainable mentoring programs.
Documents:
Mentoring Made Easy Presentation
- Leading With Perseverance and Grace As An Elected Official | 164-165
Mayors and Councilmembers from growing towns and cities in Arizona will share their insight as they navigated their career within local government and earned their seat as an elected official. This diverse and esteemed panel has amassed a great deal of wisdom as they approached challenges head-on and inspired their organization along the way. Join this moving session to hear more about each panelist’s story of resilience and strength and how they are shaping the future for women in elected roles within the state.
Facilitator:
Jessica Mensch, Video Producer, Glendale - Career Advancing Research | 166-167
This educational and career advancing session will consist of a panel of female academics who will discuss research in women leading government organizations such as counties, cities and towns as well as diversity in local government. This includes executive-level roles to public office, mentoring, and the emotional labor that is critical in the government sector.
Speakers:
Shannon Portillo, PhD, Director and Coor Presidential Chair, School of Public Affairs, Watts College of Public Service, Arizona State University
Dr. Sara Rinfret, PhD Professor of Public Administration & Director, Northern Arizona University
Dr. April Townsend, EdD Research Fellow, Utah Women & Leadership Project, Jon M. Huntsman School of Business, Utah State University
Shannon Portillo – Bio
Shannon Portillo serves as director and Coor Presidential Chair in the School of Public Affairs at Arizona State University. Dr. Portillo’s scholarship explores how formal policies and rules and informal social norms shape the work of public organizations. She is specifically interested in how racism and sexism impact organizations and workers’ experiences both historically and currently. Her work helps scholars and practitioners understand how inequities have been institutionalized in public organizations, including courts, policing, city management, higher education, and the military. Her research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, Women’s Foundation, the Army Research Institute, and other entities. Her work has appeared in a broad array of academic and popular outlets. She has been recognized for her scholarship and service, recently being inducted into the National Academy of Public Administration, winning the Hobby Prize for Ethics, Leadership and Public Policy, and receiving the Steeples Service to Kansas Award. Her third book, The Myth of Bureaucratic Neutrality: An Examination of Merit and Representation (with co-authors Nicole Humphrey and Domonic Bearfield), was published with Routledge Press. Community service is a core value. Dr. Portillo served as Co-Chair of Governor Laura Kelly’s Commission on Racial Equity and Justice and was elected Chair of the Douglas County Board of County Commissioners.
Dr. Sara Rinfret – Bio
Dr. Sara R. Rinfret is currently an Associate Vice Provost, Faculty Affairs, MPA Director, and Professor of Public Administration at Northern Arizona University. She has more than a decade of higher education leadership experience serving in roles such as Acting Dean, Associate Dean, Chair, and Master of Public Administration Director. Her scholarship is globally recognized in the areas of regulatory policy, environmental policy, women and government, public administration, and the scholarship of teaching and learning. To date, Rinfret has published 9 books and more than 45 peer reviewed articles, and several book chapters. Rinfret is an experienced leader, designing training and development for faculty, staff, state, local, and federal government, focusing on areas such as emotional labor, performance measurement approaches, program evaluation, policy implementation, and holistic teaching evaluations. Dr. Rinfret holds an MPA from the John Glenn College of Public Affairs (Ohio State), and PhD in political science from Northern Arizona University.
Dr. April Townsend – Bio
April Townsend EdD is a Research Fellow with the Utah Women & Leadership Project. Her primary research interests are women’s career and leadership development. She is a scholar practitioner with over 30 years of public sector expertise in organizational and team effectiveness, strategic leadership, and change management. She belongs to the International City/County Managers Association and the American Society for Public Administration, where she is a regular contributor on leadership topics. She is a certified coach credentialed with the International Coaching Federation. Her academic degrees include a doctorate in Educational Leadership and a Master’s in Organizational Management.
Documents:
Career Advancing Research Presentation
Speakers:
Mila Besich, Mayor, Town of Superior
Khara House, Councilmember, City of Flagstaff
Nancy Smith, Mayor, City of Maricopa
Hannah Toth, Councilmember, Town of Fountain Hills
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons, Mayor-Elect, City of Casa Grande
Jessica Mensch – Bio
Jessica Mensch is an Emmy® Award-winning communications professional with over a decade of expertise in television news and government communications. As a Video Producer for the City of Glendale, Arizona, Jessica is responsible for producing, writing, shooting and editing a wide range of dynamic content for both internal and public audiences. Her videos spotlight key community initiatives and events, reflecting the city’s energy and commitment to its residents.
In her three years with Glendale, Jessica’s work has earned significant recognition, including a Rocky Mountain Emmy Award and four additional nominations. Her standout projects range from covering Super Bowl LVII and major economic development efforts to highlighting the construction of a regional park lake. She also played an instrumental role in the city's innovative campaign to temporarily rename itself “Swift City” to celebrate Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour kickoff, an initiative that garnered a prestigious Savvy Award and a feature in PHOENIX Magazine's 'Best of the Valley' edition for 'Best Marketing Idea.'
Before her role with the city, Jessica built a successful journalism career as a reporter, anchor and multimedia journalist in various television markets across the U.S., most recently in Sacramento, California. Her reporting has taken her from the front lines of wildfires to covering presidential campaigns and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work earned numerous accolades, including a Mid-America Emmy for investigative reporting.
Mila Besich – Bio
Mila Besich is a lifelong resident of Superior, Arizona. Elected in 2016 as Mayor of Superior, she has played a key role in leading her community through the Resolution Copper Environmental Impact Statement while also actively galvanizing and leading collaborative region-wide initiatives to preserve the majestic beauty of her town and Arizona’s Copper Corridor region. Mila’s strong and focused leadership as well as her problem-solving acumen has been recognized nationally and globally, including U.S. and international media outlets, and public officials, Hispanic, women’s and other organizations.
Collaborating, communicating and connecting groups and organizations are critical skills that Mila uses to accomplish her many public service, volunteer and business projects. Mila was elected to the Superior Town Council in 2013 and previously served on the Superior Unified School District Governing board since for a decade. As an actively engaged member of the community and region, Mila has a pulse on rural communities and their needs.
She currently serves as Vice-Chair of the Pinal County Regional Transportation Authority and is the Treasurer for the Executive Committee of the Arizona League of Cities and Towns, as well as a member of the National League of Cities Energy, Environment and Natural Resources Committee and a member of the EPA Local Government Advisory Committee. Mila also is on the Board of Directors of the Boyce Thompson Arboretum and Rebuild Superior Inc.
She is a Flinn Brown Fellow and Graduate of the Valle del Sol Hispanic Leadership Institute.
Khara House – Bio
Khara House was appointed to the Flagstaff City Council in May 2022. Khara came to Flagstaff in 2009 to study English at Northern Arizona University, graduating in 2011. After teaching at NAU, Khara began a career in multifamily housing in 2013. Her passion for service and community engagement has led to membership with NAACP Flagstaff, Coconino County’s African Diaspora Advisory Council, the Southside Community Association, NAMI Flagstaff, Flagstaff Young Professionals, and several other community and service organizations. Prior to her appointment to Council, Khara served on the City’s Commission on Diversity Awareness and Housing Commission.
Khara earned a Bachelor’s degree in English at Messiah University (formerly Messiah College) in Pennsylvania, and completed her Master’s degree in English at Northern Arizona University.
Khara believes in making a difference in her community and hopes to have a positive impact on others and society. Her studies in English were inspired by a lifelong love of reading and writing. She is also a devoted lover of movies, music (and karaoke), and the arts. Her background in education and championing diversity, equity and inclusion continue to reflect in community conversations, organizational DEI training, and occasional poetry workshops. Khara is a passionate advocate for mental and behavioral health awareness and acceptance, diversity, housing, and meaningful community engagement. Most of all, Khara values altruism, desiring more than anything else to be of service, elevate the voices that often go unheard in the community, and create lasting and meaningful partnerships and relationships to cultivate thriving community.
Nancy Smith – Bio
Mayor Smith graduated at the top of her class with a degree in Electronic Technology and was immediately hired by Motorola. While working for Motorola, she furthered her education by earning a degree in Business Management. She has spent the majority of her career in military technology and project management for major government programs. During her time at Motorola, she expanded her expertise by specializing in finance and budgeting. She deepened her experience in project management when she accepted a new position at General Dynamics. The skills and talents she developed at Motorola and General Dynamics are directly transferable to the duties and responsibilities of the Maricopa City Council.
Mayor Smith moved to Maricopa prior to the city's incorporation and has continuously served in various capacities since then. She is one of the co-founders and a former board member of the F.O.R. Maricopa food bank. She also served as Co-Chair of the American Cancer Society's Maricopa Relay for Life, initiated the Middle School Rocket Challenge, created the Senior Lunch & Learn program, co-founded Maricopa Friends of the Arts, and recently started a partnership between senior volunteers and transportation services to facilitate Senior Day Trips. She has a passion for non-profits and enjoys serving in church, school committees, and various city-wide events. Mayor Smith also participated in and graduated from the first Maricopa Citizen Leadership Academy.
She was honored to be invited to serve as a board member of the Pinal Partnership Board of Directors, a member of the MAG (Maricopa Association of Governments) Regional Council, the MAG Economic Development Committee, and the League of Arizona Cities and Towns Executive Board. In these roles, Mayor Smith dedicates time to ensuring that the City of Maricopa's and regional needs and visions are represented. She focuses particularly on transportation, infrastructure, and economic development.
She is the proud mother of two children and a trusted mentor to a large extended family. In their free time, her husband and family enjoy watching their grandchildren play sports and cheering on their favorite college and professional teams. Although Arizona is not her birth state, she thoroughly loves living in Arizona and considers herself a native.
Mayor Smith served eight years as a Council Member/Vice Mayor and was selected to complete the remainder of former Mayor Christian Price's term on Tuesday, August 16, 2022. She was elected Mayor in August 2024. Nancy is focused on an agenda that builds a strong and sustainable economy, moving Maricopa from a bedroom community to a place where people live, work, and play, creating a thriving and enduring community.
Hannah Toth – Bio
Hannah Toth has lived in Fountain Hills her whole life and is now the Town's youngest ever Council woman at 24 years old! She is a graduate of Arizona State University with Bachelor’s degrees in Sports Business and Business Law as well as a certificate in Business Data Analytics. Hannah is a member of the Four Peaks Rotary Club, Fountain Hills Elk's Lodge, American Legion Auxiliary Chapter, and is a Fountain Hills Leadership Academy 2022 graduate.
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons – Bio
Lisa Navarro Fitzgibbons moved to Casa Grande in the early 1970’s, attended elementary school and high school in Casa Grande. After graduating, she earned a BS degree at Arizona State University. Her work experience includes time with the Xerox Corporation, Arizona Governor’s Office, Shearson Lehman Brothers in New York City and, more specifically, at Pepsi-Cola Company (Phoenix) for 10 years. Upon returning to Casa Grande to raise her family, she worked for United Way of Pinal County and Fidelity National Title. For the past 17 years Lisa has been part of their family business, Fitzgibbons Law Offices, as the Director of Marketing and Business Development. In April 2010, she was selected to serve on the Casa Grande City Council to fill a vacancy. In 2011, she was elected to her first term on council and is serving her third term in office. She served for the second time as Mayor Pro Tem in 2020 and also served in 2014. On July 30, 2024, she was elected as Mayor Elect and will be sworn into office on December 2, 2024. She currently serves on various Boards, including; The Latino Familia Initiative Board of Directors (Currently Treasurer/Past President); Founding member of the Hispanic Leadership Institute(HLI-Pinal); Cesar Chavez Memorial Committee, The Faith Alliance Executive Committee, Mayors Task Force on Homelessness (Founding Member), and on the Board of Directors for Child & Family Resources. She previously served on the St. Anthony’s School Board, CAHRA Board of Directors, CGUHS Site Council and the Celebrating Women of Today and Tomorrow committee. In 2010, she received the Latino Advocacy Award from Valle Del Sol, a state wide organization that honors leaders in the Latino community. She has been married to her husband Denis for 34 years and has 3 daughters, two son-in-laws and two grandsons.
3:30 – 4:30 PM | South Ballroom
Our most fulfilling life is buried beneath judgements, insecurities and shame. It's time to start digging. What if all our traits we've been told are negative are actually our greatest strengths? What if we stopped trying to prove that we are enough? And what if we finally found our way back to who we were meant to be before the world told us who to be?
Speaker:
Kristina Kuzmic, Comedian & Author
Kristina Kuzmic – Bio
Kristina Kuzmic is a cheerleader for her fellow humans. It’s not something she ever anticipated doing, but after immigrating to America from Croatia during the war in her homeland and later facing more challenges (divorce, single parenting, poverty, mental health challenges), Kristina’s goal became clear: to be for others what she needed when she was at her lowest. Now, with well over one billion video views, Kristina is providing her audience with encouragement, hope and humor in a role she never expected to fill. In 2011, when Oprah crowned Kristina the winner of Mark Burnett’s reality TV competition “Oprah’s Search for the Next TV Star,” Oprah said, “What is that THING…that’s so charming and charismatic and connected to the audience that makes you feel like, ‘I know her, I want to be her, I’m like her’… Kristina has all of that. She is an ‘IT PLUS’ girl… I wanna watch her!” Since working with Oprah, Kristina has branched out on her own, creating videos about juggling all of life’s challenges, and encouraging her audience to prioritize their mental health. She has quickly become a viral sensation with 2.9 million Facebook followers and over 700,000 Instagram followers. Kristina has performed at comedy clubs and theatres across the country. She is also a sought after international keynote speaker who has a unique way of connecting with audiences of all ages. Her first book, Hold On But Don’t Hold Still, was released through Penguin Random House in February 2020, and made it on multiple bestseller lists. It has been translated in seven languages so far. Kristina’s second book, I Can Fix This! (And Other Lies I’ve Told Myself while Parenting My Struggling Child), was released in May 2024, and was featured on Good Morning America, The New York Times and People magazine, among other media outlets.
Reception
4:45 - 6:00 PM | Hanny’s Restaurant
Hanny’s Restaurant
40 N. First Street
Phoenix, AZ 85004
Join us after the day’s events for a special reception for AZ WLG attendees at Hanny’s.
This is a just a short walk from the convention center and will offer an opportunity to network and socialize with other attendees. Appetizers and drinks will be provided.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8
Registration and Continental Breakfast
8:00 AM | South Ballroom Lobby
Welcome
8:40 AM | South Ballroom
Conference Day 2 Emcees
Jessica Mensch, Video Producer, Glendale
Yvette Roeder, Deputy Director, Neighborhood Services, Phoenix
Jessica Mensch – Bio
Jessica Mensch is an Emmy® Award-winning communications professional with over a decade of expertise in television news and government communications. As a Video Producer for the City of Glendale, Arizona, Jessica is responsible for producing, writing, shooting and editing a wide range of dynamic content for both internal and public audiences. Her videos spotlight key community initiatives and events, reflecting the city’s energy and commitment to its residents.
In her three years with Glendale, Jessica’s work has earned significant recognition, including a Rocky Mountain Emmy Award and four additional nominations. Her standout projects range from covering Super Bowl LVII and major economic development efforts to highlighting the construction of a regional park lake. She also played an instrumental role in the city's innovative campaign to temporarily rename itself “Swift City” to celebrate Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour kickoff, an initiative that garnered a prestigious Savvy Award and a feature in PHOENIX Magazine's 'Best of the Valley' edition for 'Best Marketing Idea.'
Before her role with the city, Jessica built a successful journalism career as a reporter, anchor and multimedia journalist in various television markets across the U.S., most recently in Sacramento, California. Her reporting has taken her from the front lines of wildfires to covering presidential campaigns and the COVID-19 pandemic. Her work earned numerous accolades, including a Mid-America Emmy for investigative reporting.
Yvette Roeder – Bio
Yvette Roeder has more than 25 years of experience in public relations and has served the city of Phoenix for the last 17 years, mostly in a public information and communications capacity. She has assisted and led various successful public relations and engagement efforts for several city departments, including Public Works, Police, Public Transit and Information Technology Services. She’s also had the opportunity to work alongside Councilwoman Ann O’Brien as chief of staff, serving the residents of Council District 1. In her current role, she serves as the Deputy Director of the Neighborhood Engagement Division of the Phoenix Neighborhood Services Department. Yvette is a proud Fighting Banana Slug, with a Bachelor’s degree from University of California, Santa Cruz, and a proud Sun Devil with a Master’s degree in Journalism & Mass Communication from ASU’s Walter Cronkite School.
The Key to Thriving: Movement!
9:00 - 9:55 AM | South Ballroom
The Key to Thriving: Movement! In today's world, many of us are confined to sedentary jobs, where sitting all day has become the norm. Despite remarkable advances in medicine and technology, our mental and physical health continues to decline. Learn the science behind the mind-movement connection and how small changes can lead to a monumental improvement in the quality of our lives. In this motivational session, a globally known expert will provide actionable tips and tactics to implement into your life starting NOW, that will nourish the brain-movement connection and improve your overall quality of life.
Speaker:
Chris Powell, Founder, Move One Million
Chris Powell – Bio
Chris Powell Chris is a personal trainer, reality show personality, and author. Powell was the host of the ABC television series Extreme Weight Loss, which aired from 2011 to 2015.
Powell was the host and a personal trainer on Extreme Weight Loss, a U.S. reality television series. The show was formerly known as Extreme Makeover: Weight Loss Edition.1 Powell has also appeared in Extreme Weight Loss DVDs and is the author of two books: Choose to Lose: The 7-Day Carb Cycle Solution and Chris Powell's Choose More Lose More for Life. He has appeared on the Oprah Winfrey Show, 20/20, The View, and in a one-hour documentary that aired on 20/20, TLC2
In 2008 Powell co-founded the web-based weight-loss program ReshapeTheNation.com.4 Powell also contributes to Good Morning Arizona, Good Morning America, and has a series of webisodes called "Meet the Powell Pack.
Documents:
The Key to Thriving: Movement! Presentation
Break
9:55 - 10:05 AM | South Ballroom Lobby
Leadership Deep Dive Panel
10:05 – 11:00 AM | South Ballroom
Join us as three of Arizona's most dynamic government leaders join us for a panel discussion. We will hear about their individual development and the leadership roles they play within their departments, as well as the broader organization. You will also hear what they look for in a leader in government, including different types of challenges they expect leaders to be able to manage. From their successes to more complex situations, you will be inspired and hear tips to be prepared to lead teams and hone in on your leadership abilities.
Facilitator:
Sue Breding, Conference Co-Chair and Director of Communications, Glendale
Speakers:
Mary Cameli, Fire Chief, Mesa Fire and Medical Department
Jeanine L’Ecuyer, Chief of Staff, Office of the Maricopa County Attorney
Ginger Spencer, Deputy City Manager, Phoenix
Mary Cameli – Bio
Mary Cameli serves as the department's Fire Chief and has served Mesa Fire and Medical Department for over 40 years. She was one of the first females hired by the organization. She held each rank in the organization including 11 years as Assistant Chief, prior to being selected as Fire Chief in November 2016. Mary received Bachelor of Arts Degrees in Elementary and Physical Education and holds a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management. She has been actively involved in the community for many years. Mary is a Past President of the Arizona Fire Chiefs Association (AFCA) and is currently the Metro Section representative for the Board. She is Past Chair of the Child Crisis Arizona Board and has served the past sixteen years with Mesa Sunrise Rotary holding the position of president in 2012. She is Past President of the Community Bridges Board, Chair of the International Fire Service Training Association (IFSTA) Board and serves as President on the International CPSE (Center for Public Safety Excellence) Board. She continues to stay very active in the community and volunteers her time to help and be involved within the community.
Jeanine L’Ecuyer – Bio
Jeanine L’Ecuyer has served as the close strategist or chief of staff for three different female top AZ government leaders. She is currently part of the leadership team in the office of Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. In that role, she participates in general office policy, strategy, critical incident reviews, and long-term planning. She also oversees the communications operation, media relations, digital communications, and speechwriting. L’Ecuyer previously served as Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Communications for the Governor of Arizona, Janet Napolitano; Vice President/Communications for Ecotality; and Senior Director/Communications, Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus- Pine Council; and Director of Communications for the Office of
Mayor Kate Gallego in the City of Phoenix. She also spent more than 20 years in the business of television news.
Ginger Spencer – Bio
Ginger Spencer was named Deputy City Manager for the city of Phoenix in May 2021. Prior to that she served as director of the city’s Public Works Department since 2017. Her areas of responsibility include Water Services and Water Strategy, City Clerk, Council Agenda Function, Office of Accountability and Transparency, Community Assistance Program, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, and the Phoenix Industrial Development Authority. During her 26 years of service with the city of Phoenix, Ginger has served in various leadership positions including Assistant Public Works Director, Deputy Public Works Director, Family Advocacy Center Director, Arts and Culture Administrator, and Special Assistant to the City Manager. She serves on the board of directors for the Arizona City/County Management Association, The Recycling Partnership, Trellis and the Arizona Science Center.
In 2013, she was named by The Phoenix Business Journal as one of the “40 under 40” Top Business Leaders in Phoenix and was also named by the Engaging Local Government Leaders in 2018 as a Traeger 100 Top Influencer in Government. In 2021, Ginger was recognized by the American Public Works Association as one of the Top 10 Public Works Leaders in the nation. She was recognized as Who’s Who in American Infrastructure in 2022 and 2023.
Dealing with Conflict
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM | South Ballroom
Conflict is not a problem in itself; It is how we handle it that makes a difference. How do you respond to conflict? Most people respond instantly, without any thought or consideration to how your response will be received. We must STOP, prepare ourselves, and then come up with a plan. During this session, we will discuss tips and hints about what is conflict, noticing the signs of conflicts including what starts it and the indicators of conflict, and how to address various types of conflicts.
Speaker:
Juliene Hefter, Founder & Consultant, Safety First Aquatics
Juliene Hefter – Bio
Juliene Hefter is the founder of Safety First Aquatics, LLC and was the first Deputy Director for the Wisconsin Park & Recreation Association with one of the premiere Park and Recreation Associations in the nation. Currently, she's the Executive Director/CEO for the Association of Aquatic Professionals, an international drowning prevention and aquatic education non-profit 501(c)3 organization. Juliene Hefter received her Bachelor of Science in Recreational Leadership from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse and holds a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership and Quality from Marian College. She has a long and illustrious career in aquatics and park and recreation administration, and has been the Manager of Recreation Services for the City of West Bend, Park and Recreation Director for the City of Horicon, Supervisor of Recreation & Aquatics Director for the Fond du Lac School District, and the Park and Recreation Director for the Village of Germantown. She has served in a number of leadership positions with both state and national organizations, including being the Chairperson for the National Recreation and Park Association’s 2005 National Aquatic Conference, Member and Chairperson of the Aquatic Facility Operators Board of Directors, 2006 Chairperson of the National Aquatic Management School, 2007 President of the National Aquatic Council, Chairperson of the Wisconsin Park & Recreation Association’s Recreation Section, Chairperson of the Southeast Park and Recreation Council, and Vice-Chairperson of the Washington County Park and Open Space Technical Advisory Committee. Her distinguished career includes being the recipient of the Wisconsin Park & Recreation Association’s Professional Award of Merit, the Recreation Professional of the Year, Aquatic Professional of the Year, and the recipient of the Public Policy Innovation Award. Most recently she was named to the “Power 25” by Aquatics International for 2007. And received the Paragon Award from the International Hall of Fame. She is a renowned speaker and author on a variety of management and administrative topics, including A Hands On Approach to Corporate Sponsorships, Sexual Harassment Training for Part-Time and Seasonal Staff, Public Perception of Lifeguards, Risk Management, Staffing, and Staff Manual Development for Aquatic Facilities, Marketing and Promotions, and Team Building and Special Events. Juliene is also an Instructor for the National Aquatic Facility Operator Certification Course.
Documents:
Dealing with Conflict Presentation
Conference Concludes
12:00 PM
Thank you to our Sponsors
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