Meet the New Valley Young Professionals Board

The most exciting prospect about board membership is being able to connect more directly with all the industries and fields that make up the Chamber of Commerce, especially the members of the Valley Young Professionals. I am always excited to hear more about the ways that the Valley comes together to create the thriving, ambitious, and growing business environment we have today. Being able to work with the Chamber at multiple levels really drives me to put all the parts of its portfolio together for myself and other developing professionals.

Arizona has always been the Wild West, and I think today’s opportunities are no different. Whether it’s microchip manufacturing, aerospace engineering, premiere hospitality, banking and finance, or groundbreaking political policies Arizona is rife with innovation and at its heart is Phoenix’s unrivaled potential for growth. Young people today have a chance to not only get in at the ground level for some of the best companies for professional development, but a chance to build their own footprint alongside them as entrepreneurs.

As someone who works at the intersection of policy and business, I hope to not only connect people to their government but to each other as well. So many roadblocks and lost opportunities come as the result of not knowing where to start or where to go next. Connecting people gives everyone a better chance at overcoming some of these challenges and I look forward to the chance to be that bridge for other people!

While snorkeling off the coast of Catalina Island I was bitten by a shark! Ask me about it next time you see me.

Relationships are fundamental to professional success, and I look forward to fostering meaningful connections with both my fellow board members and the young professionals who engage with VYP through our events. Experiences like serving on the VYP Board have shaped the way I collaborate, problem-solve, and lead—with empathy, curiosity, and a strong commitment to inclusivity.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working across a wide range of environments from state government and national campaigns to local city offices and nonprofit associations. Each role has deepened my appreciation for the value of diverse perspectives—not only in background and identity, but also in thought, experience, and approach. The Greater Phoenix Metro area offers a wonderful depth of industry, opportunity, and viewpoints that enrich the experience of any young professional fortunate enough to live, work, and thrive here in the Valley.

In my current role as Vice President of Local Government Relations and Association Management at Goodman Schwartz Public Affairs, I specialize in connecting professionals, navigating complex systems, and building coalitions—skills directly aligned with VYP’s mission to empower young professionals. I’m passionate about creating spaces where others can thrive, I see VYP as a platform to elevate emerging leaders in our community. I’m also committed to bringing a fresh perspective rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and a healthy dose of humor!

I’m an avid traveler and have visited all 50 states – on to countries!

I hope to build meaningful relationships and gain new perspectives that could improve my ability to contribute to the Arizona business community. I’m particularly interested in exploring how cross-sector collaboration can elevate the construction industry and expand its positive social and economic impact. This experience will not only allow me to give back through mentorship and advocacy but also help me grow as a leader by learning from diverse viewpoints and engaging with initiatives that push both individuals and organizations to achieve more than they thought possible.

On a more holistic level, young professionals today are faced with more distractions than ever before in history, with digital technology often designed to consume attention rather than enhance it. One of the greatest opportunities for emerging leaders in the Valley is to develop the discipline to filter out noise and control external stimuli to make decisions that benefit both themselves and the wider community. Dialing into the construction industry, I see several opportunities to help young professionals develop their skillset (think ElevateEdAZ) and drive rapid innovation with AI. With the industry facing a generational transition and increasing demand for innovation, there is a clear opportunity for the next wave of professionals to step in, modernize practices, and drive sustainable growth.

My experience in the construction and development space may provide insight to those just entering this market sector or those looking to improve their position in this space. I’m all about sharing knowledge and experience to help prevent duplicative frustration when lessons can be learned before the hard (and sometimes expensive) knock of experience. I hope to contribute to the continual improvement of events offered by the VYP Board through collaboration with various communities and creating atmospheres where people find authentic connections with others.

I’m an adrenaline junkie! I have a lifelong love for fast cars and now, I’m getting back into rock climbing, dirt biking, and more.

I am hoping to build meaningful relationships with other emerging leaders who are passionate about making a difference in the Valley and continue to learn more about our economy and industry.

Many current VYP members are the future Arizona business leaders and as the Valley continues to grow exponentially, there are a lot of opportunities for young professionals to lead in economic development, innovation, and sustainability in a way that makes real, tangible community impact.

I bring a background in public affairs and infrastructure and a deep understanding of the relationship between policymaking and impacts to the business community. I hope to use my experiences and background to help VYP members connect with each other, develop leadership skills, deepen our shared understanding of the Valley business landscape, and influence change.

I packed my car and moved to Phoenix in 2012 without ever having been to Arizona before. All my nuclear family has since followed me here!

I’m hoping to continue to build new relationships across the Greater Phoenix region and meet like-minded people who enjoy being active in the community. I’ve made many friends over the last couple of years as a member of the Valley Young Professionals and I look forward to meeting more wonderful people. Additionally, I look forward to the opportunity to help guide programming and create new opportunities for young professionals all over the valley.

The board has done a wonderful job in creating opportunities since I’ve been a member. I think there’s a great opportunity for young professionals in the valley to continue to build their network and expand their knowledge through diverse programming. Whether it’s “behind the scenes” tours, seminars and workshops, or networking mixers, the opportunity is there for people who want to grow their professional network and build meaningful relationships.

Coming in from the political world, I hope that my experience working with a diverse network of people throughout the community will allow me to help craft new opportunities and events for our membership.

Bill Clinton once asked me for a photo together because he liked the shirt I was wearing!

Through the VYP Board, I hope to connect with others who are passionate about mentorship, leadership development, and making a positive impact across the Valley. I’m looking forward to fostering opportunities for collaboration, professional growth, and community engagement that empowers young professionals across all industries to expand their network and career.

The Valley is evolving quickly, and with that comes incredible opportunities for young professionals. From tech and healthcare to sustainability and countless other industries, the momentum in Phoenix is undeniable. I see a future where young professionals are not only participating in the conversation but driving innovation, inclusivity, and meaningful community partnerships that reflect the diverse fabric of our region.

My journey as a first-generation college graduate and a proud Grand Canyon University alum has instilled in me a passion for mentorship and creating access to opportunities for others. I’m passionate about helping people find their voice, tell their story, and realize their potential and I hope to bring that energy to everything I do on the board.

I’ve been on a billboard in Times Square! An unforgettable moment made possible thanks to the incredible company I work for, Clear Channel Outdoor!

I’m excited to connect with other leaders who are passionate about shaping the future of Phoenix. My goal is to grow alongside this community—expanding my leadership toolkit, learning from different industries, and gaining new skills that stretch how I think, serve, and show up. I’m especially drawn to opportunities that blend innovation, impact, and community, and I believe the VYP Board is a space where those ideas come to life.

Phoenix is in a moment of rapid growth—and that momentum brings a rare opportunity to build, influence, and reimagine what’s possible. For young professionals, this is the time to lead with bold ideas and a collaborative spirit. I also see a major opportunity to expand the Valley’s diversity footprint—not just in who’s at the table, but in how decisions are made and whose voices shape the narrative of progress.

I bring a mix of corporate strategy, creative storytelling, and deep community engagement. In my role as a PR & Communications leader in public safety tech, I work at the intersection of innovation and impact—elevating stories that drive culture, trust, and transformation. Outside of work, I’m a speaker, mentor, and founder who’s passionate about creating spaces for bold ideas and breakthrough moments. I hope to bring that energy, experience, and heart to the VYP community.

I’ve lived the same day twice—literally. While sailing around the world on Semester at Sea, we crossed the International Date Line and experienced the same day all over again. It’s the kind of time travel that only comes with a passport and an open mind.