Local opinion: Building the next bold chapter for Southern Arizona

When I stepped into the role of President and CEO of United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona, I began my first 100 days with a clear intention: to listen, learn and lay the foundation for our next bold chapter.

Over the past three months, I have met one-on-one with more than 60 staff members and connected with over 150 community and civic leaders. These conversations reaffirmed what makes Southern Arizona so special — a deep sense of place, compassion, and shared responsibility for one another.

Having served within the United Way network, I’ve seen the impact that comes when communities rally around a common purpose. In Tucson, that commitment feels especially deep — this United Way stands at the heart of a region defined by close-knit community, cultural richness, and a shared determination to care for one another.

United Way of Tucson stands on a century-long foundation built on trusted relationships and a steadfast commitment to equity and opportunity. Through my early listening and learning, several themes emerged: People see United Way as a trusted, mission-driven organization with meaningful impact. Our community values our ability to bring together businesses, governments, and nonprofits to achieve what none of us can accomplish alone.

At the same time, there’s a growing need to strengthen our systems and modernize our technology and infrastructure to meet today’s challenges. That’s why, this fall, we launched the Streamline Automation Project to further enhance efficiency and collaboration, so every dollar and action delivers maximum impact for our community. Building stronger internal systems is essential to sustaining the programs Southern Arizona depends on. But modernization and growth require continued investment from our community to meet rising needs with innovation and efficiency.

In my first 100 days, I’ve seen extraordinary dedication across every department. Our Community Development team continues to turn collaboration into measurable progress in education, financial wellness, health, and housing.

Our Advancement team connects people, purpose, and possibility — creating ways for individuals and partners to make a difference through philanthropy and volunteer engagement.

The Finance and Operations teams ensure integrity, accountability, and innovation remain central to all we do. From financial stewardship and transparency to sustainability projects like solar energy and EV charging stations planned for 2026, these teams are building systems that will sustain impact for decades to come.

As we look ahead, our focus is clear: United Way of Tucson is refining its strategy to align our internal strength with the region’s most pressing needs. Through our Bold Moves initiative, we are setting measurable goals to expand opportunity in four key areas — educational success, financial wellness, healthy living, and housing stability.

Across the country and here at home, nonprofits are experiencing a widening gap between growing community needs and shrinking funding. Rising costs and increased demand mean that even well-established programs face mounting pressure. Meeting these challenges — and building capacity to serve more efficiently — requires shared investment from local businesses, individual donors, and philanthropic partners. Our collective commitment is what ensures these vital programs not only endure but thrive.

Every day, United Way’s work touches lives from early childhood through adulthood and into healthy aging — helping people navigate challenges and celebrate success. We empower teachers through free professional development and new growth opportunities, equip families with financial education and tax preparation, prevent evictions, and help older adults age with dignity. These are more than programs — they are lifelines that keep Southern Arizona strong.

That promise of connection and care has guided United Way’s mission for nearly a century. In my first 100 days, I’ve seen that promise come alive — in the dedication of our staff, the passion of our partners, and the generosity of a community that truly shows up for one another.

These early months have reaffirmed my belief that progress begins with listening but endures through partnership. I am deeply grateful to Tucson for welcoming me so warmly and for trusting me with the responsibility of leading this organization into its next chapter. Together, we can continue expanding opportunity, strengthening families, and building a stronger, more connected Southern Arizona.