FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 9, 2026 – Education Forward Arizona announced new leadership roles for its board of directors, reflecting the continued commitment and experience of long-serving board members who help guide the organization’s work advancing education and workforce opportunity across Arizona.
The board’s newly appointed officers include:
- Ron Butler, Chairman
(Board member since 2021; Retired Ernst & Young LLP Managing Partner) - Dr. Daniel Corr, Vice Chairman
(Board member since 2023; Arizona Western College President) - Scott Vanderpool, Treasurer
(Board member since 2021; Bank of America Phoenix President) - Shelley Mellon, Secretary
(Board member since 2022; RL Jones Insurance Services Owner)
“These leadership transitions reflect the depth of experience and dedication within our board,” said Rich Nickel, President and CEO of Education Forward Arizona. “Each of these leaders brings a strong understanding of our mission and a shared commitment to strengthening Arizona’s education and workforce pipeline. Their guidance will be critical as we continue advancing policies and programs that expand opportunity for learners across the state.”
All four officers have previously served on the board and will continue to support the organization’s strategic priorities, including increasing postsecondary attainment, aligning education with workforce needs, and advocating for policies that strengthen Arizona’s economy and quality of life.
“I’m honored to step into this role and continue serving alongside such dedicated leaders,” shared Ron Butler, incoming Board Chair and Retired Ernst & Young LLP Managing Partner. “Education Forward Arizona plays a critical part in strengthening our state’s education and workforce pipeline, and our board remains deeply committed to advancing opportunities for every learner. I look forward to working with my fellow officers, our board, and our partners across the state as we build on the organization’s momentum and help ensure Arizona’s students are prepared to thrive in the years ahead.”
Additional background on each officer’s professional experience and board service is included below.
Ron Butler, Chairman
Ron Butler brings extensive financial and governance expertise to Education Forward Arizona. A retired managing partner with Ernst & Young, Butler has decades of experience in audit, risk management and strategic oversight for complex organizations. He has served in numerous leadership roles across Arizona’s civic, business and nonprofit sectors. Butler holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Arizona and is a certified public accountant.
Dr. Daniel Corr, Vice Chairman
Dr. Daniel Corr is President of Arizona Western College and a long-standing leader in higher education. His career spans more than three decades in community college leadership, with a focus on student success, institutional effectiveness and workforce alignment. Corr brings deep insight into Arizona’s education pipeline and postsecondary systems. He holds an Doctor of Education degree and has served on numerous statewide and national boards.
Scott Vanderpool, Treasurer
Scott Vanderpool serves as President of Bank of America Phoenix and provides financial leadership and community engagement expertise to the board. With a career focused on economic development and organizational stewardship, Vanderpool supports Education Forward Arizona’s fiscal oversight and long-term sustainability. He holds a Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University, an MBA from the University of California at Riverside and is a graduate and faculty member of the Pacific Coast Banking School.
Shelley Mellon, Secretary
Shelley Mellon is Owner and Broker of RL Jones Insurance & MVD Services and a respected business and community leader in southwestern Arizona. She has held numerous leadership and board roles focused on education, civic engagement and regional advocacy. Mellon contributes strong governance experience and a deep understanding of community-based leadership. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Arizona and has been recognized for her leadership and advocacy across multiple community organizations.
About Education Forward Arizona
Education Forward Arizona is a statewide advocacy organization advancing education and training as pathways to economic opportunity, a highly-skilled workforce, and a stronger Arizona. Working directly and in partnership with education, business and civic leaders, Education Forward Arizona helps drive progress toward the Achieve60AZ attainment goal.
This includes advocating for policies, funding, and cross-sector strategies that strengthen Arizona’s economy and support progress for communities statewide. Its work spans the education continuum—from early learning through postsecondary education and workforce training—and includes scholarships and mentoring that help Arizonans gain the skills and credentials needed to thrive.
Education and training can be transformative for individuals and for Arizona’s future. By increasing access to certificates and degrees, Arizona can expand economic mobility, meet workforce demand, and build long-term prosperity.
Learn more at EducationForwardArizona.org.
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