25 in...ongratulations to the 2013 Dynamic Women in Business honorees in the Phoenix community! Last...

A salute to Valley executives who have found their own paths to success

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Sponsored by:

ongratulations to the 2013 Dynamic Women in Business honorees in the Phoenix community! Last year, I was honored to be one of the 25 honorees, and this year, I am proud to once again be part of this

dynamic group of women through American Express’ sponsorship of the Dynamic Women in Business. We, at American Express, are honored to tip our hats to these phenomenal women for their outstanding contributions to our community. More than half of our company’s workforce is women, including here in the Valley. American Express continues to focus on innovative ways to serve our employees, our customers and our community. For example, our Women’s Interest Network (WIN) is comprised of women all over our company who are working hard to help each other network and succeed. Our sponsorship of Dynamic Women in Business is just one of the many ways we help talented women connect and collaborate to be successful. Today, I want to thank, congratulate and celebrate the 25 Phoenix leaders who are being honored as Dynamic Women in Business for their leadership, accomplishments and contributions to our community. You are talented women who inspire us as role models. We learn from each of you about how we can help our community succeed in an ever-changing environment. As a proud mother of three and a leader in a global organization, I know that we have to work together to mentor and create change for one another. I’m grateful to all of those who have helped me with my career path and taught me so much along the way. I encourage other Valley leaders to

ensure we continue to recognize the efforts that dynamic women make in our community.

Sincerely,

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Fun facts

In the winter my dad would build an ice rink in our backyard, complete with hockey goals, and our house

would be the place to hang out in the neighborhood. I mostly played left defense and dreamed of marrying

Bobby Orr, the star of the Boston Bruins.

— Karen McConnell, 8

Met her fi ance, Blane, competing on a professional skydiving team that won the national championship in its

division in 2006. They each have 3,000+ skydives and are getting married in May.

— Cindy Nieves, Page 30

In school, I truly loved science — so much so, in fact, that I took an honors course in nuclear science my

senior year. I also took the ASVAB exam. I scored very well and spoke with the Navy recruiter about their

nuclear program. Imagine my surprise when I found that the only nuclear program available in the Navy was

on submarines, which didn’t allow women at the time.

— Julia Dollarhide, Page 23

18 DYNAMIC WOMEN IN BUSINESS PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL February 22, 2013phoenix.bizjournals.com

25 Dynamic Women Page

Christine Aguilera SkyMall Inc. 20Michelle Ahlmer Arizona Retail Association 20Diane Brown Arizona Public Interest Research Group 21Nikal Conti PHX Architecture 21Mary Contreras Contreras State Farm Agency 22Julia Dollarhide Biltmore Bank of Arizona 23Christine Ehrich Industrial Solutions Network 23Abbie Fink HMA Public Relations 24Jean Hammelev Laboratory Sciences of Arizona/Sonora Quest Laboratories 24Courtney Klein Johnson Seed Spot 25Anne Kleindienst Polsinelli Shughart 26Sharon Knutson-Felix 100 Club 26Sharon Lechter Pay Your Family First 27Mary Martuscelli US Bank 27Karen McConnell Ballard Spahr 28MaryAnn Miller Avnet Inc. 28Harriet Mountcastle-Walsh Honeywell Aerospace 29Margaret Mullen Science Foundation Arizona 30Cindy Nieves iAcquire 30Roberta “Sissie” Roberts Shank Chas Roberts Air Conditioning & Plumbing 31Nicole Stanton Quarles & Brady 32Trish Stark First Western Trust 32Dorothy Wolden Gravity Webworks 33Cathy Valenzuela Arizona Business Bank/CoBiz Financial 34Patricia Tate Talking Stick Resort, Casino Arizona 34

This year’s 25 honorees were selected through nominations and recommendations from a community advisory group and the Phoenix Business Journal’s news staff.

This year, we took a different approach to gathering information about our winners: We asked their mentors and colleagues to tell us a little about them. In addition, we asked each honoree to provide biographical details and their quick personal impressions of fi ve concepts/issues: dynamic leadership, economic recovery, glass ceiling, education reform and ultimate downtime.

Not everyone was able to get every element to us, but we were able to glean plenty of interesting information — and even pull out one fun fact for each honoree. (A few choice ones are on the facing page.) We also compiled some “Editor’s Picks” on 5 of some of the personal impressions that stood out.

Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Welcome to the 2013 edition of Dynamic Women in Business!

Project editor: Kat BryantPhoto editor: Jim PoulinPage design: Joel ChadwickCover design: Dave Hostetler

February 22, 2013 PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL DYNAMIC WOMEN IN BUSINESS 19phoenix.bizjournals.com


Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, Benjamin Aguilera, an attorney in private practice; two daughtersEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degrees in accounting and fi nance, New Mexico State

University; Hall of Fame honoree, NMSU College of Business; law degree, University of Texas School of Law

HOMETOWN: BisbeeFUN FACT: When not doing market research for SkyMall (shopping!) or enjoying her

daughters’ sports adventures, she enjoys travel, skiing and cooking.COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Trustee and vice chair, Direct Marketing Educational

Foundation; member, State Bar of Arizona; advisory board member, Sitewire; board member, Phoenix Chamber of Commerce. Also has lobbied Congress on issues related to the direct marketing industry.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: One of the most important factors to the success of any

organization. Economic recovery: Like a long car trip with impatient kids — “Are we there yet?”Glass ceiling: No one achieves their potential if they think there is a ceiling over their

head. Education reform: Critical for the long-term economic success of the U.S., and far easier

to solve than people think. Trying anything new here is better than doing nothing. Ultimate downtime: Traveling anywhere on the planet. I’ve never been anywhere too far

off the beaten path!

Christine Aguilera: a mentor/colleague’s view

Christine Aguilera has met all my expectations and more in all that she was ever asked to do. She is extremely bright, communicates with alacrity and seems to understand how to move in complex corporate environments. We all prefer the more simple, straightforward corporate life, but that is not always

the reality in larger organizations. She has excelled in diffi cult and calm waters. The fact that she continues to have the confi dence of owners after several changes in ownership at SkyMall is a tremendous compliment to Christine. She and her husband continue to be great friends and business associates of my wife and me.

— Bob WorsleyR-Mesa, Arizona Senate

Former CEO, SkyMall

Personal detailsFAMILY: Daughter and son-in-law, Alyssa and Ammon NaylorEDUCATION: Attended Brigham Young University; political science degree, Arizona

State UniversityHOMETOWN: Helena, Mont.FUN FACT: In 1993, the ARA board encouraged Executive Director George Allen to hire

an assistant. His daughter, Michelle Ahlmer, got the job because she had grown up working in the independent clothing stores owned and operated by the family.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: 2013 chair, Council of State Retail Associations; board member, National Retail Federation

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: The ability to adapt to change with energy, to encourage others

to take ownership of their responsibilities and provide them with leadership opportunities.

Economic recovery: Last month, I heard a leading economist who was “cautiously optimistic.” That sentiment is currently refl ected by the innovations occurring in the retail industry.

Glass ceiling: I haven’t encountered the glass ceiling — perhaps because I have been very blessed with mentors who helped me to capitalize on my opportunities.

Education reform: Undoubtedly the toughest reform society faces; however, parental involvement and empowering teachers would be the best start I can envision.

Ultimate downtime: A beach and a book!

Michelle Allen Ahlmer: a mentor/colleague’s view

I have known Michelle both professionally and personally for 20 years and have watched her grow and prosper as the lead executive of the Arizona Retailers Association. While she was fortunate to have learned much of her craft at the knee of her father, who headed the association before her, Michelle has carved

her own path to success. As a single parent raising her lovely daughter, Michelle also was able to juggle

the delicate balance of work and family. She always had her priorities in order and quietly set a wonderful example for other women similarly situated. I am honored to have been asked to comment on my colleague and doubly honored to be able to call her my friend.

— Jim SherinPresident and CEO, Retail Council of New York State

Christine AguileraPresident, SkyMall

Michell e All en Ahlmer Executive director, Arizona Retailers Association

JIM POULIN | PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL



Diane Brown: personal detailsEDUCATION: Bachelor of Science and Master of Education in human

services and administration, Springfi eld College, MassachusettsHOMETOWN: ChicagoFUN FACT: “Members of the neighborhood fi nancially rewarded the

entrepreneurship of my friends and I when we established a fi x-it shop (where I often raked in my sister’s allowance to repair her broken toys) and a hand-written newspaper, which included a very unique advice column.”

COMPANY INVOLVEMENT: Hired at Arizona PIRG upon graduation to recruit and train college student volunteers and interns to make an impact on issues in the public interest. More than 25 years later, as executive director, her responsibilities have expanded to include coordinating research and report writing, developing and evaluating policy, building and deepening working relationships with business and nonprofi t leaders, gaining media attention, and encouraging citizens to contact elected offi cials on matters of concern. During her tenure, the group’s advocacy and leadership have helped improve Arizona through adoption of a strong energy effi ciency standard and becoming a leader in state budget transparency.

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: Grew up in a family atmosphere of entrepreneurship and community volunteerism; in college, became involved in a youth voter registration and get-out-the-vote effort with the local PIRG

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Start with vision and exemplary performance. Add

listening and learning from others, willingness to take risks, accessibility, approachability, humor and hard work.

Economic recovery: Opportunities for job creation and economic development, like investing in public transportation and health care, to creating a more effi cient and effective government.

Glass ceiling: Every year, more and more cracks. Not yet shattered.Education reform: Need to include civics, practical experiences to

complement theoretical knowledge, critical thinking, debate and innovation.

Ultimate downtime: Good food. Good wine. Good movie.

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband of 25 years, RobertEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in architecture, Southern Polytechnic State University,

Georgia (summa cum laude)HOMETOWN: In Northern CaliforniaFUN FACT: Owns several businesses and travels the world with her husband

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Dynamic leaders listen, adapt, learn, communicate and have

courage. And they believe in their team 110 percent.Economic recovery: We still have a lot of work to do, but I believe in the can-do spirit of

Americans overall and our youth in particular.Glass ceiling: It will cease to exist when we are led by representative groups of all

minorities, sexes and ages, and it is truly the best person who steps into that top spot.Education reform: No dream is possible without great education. Kids are endlessly

proving they are up for the challenge; we can’t let them down.Ultimate downtime: Anyplace without technology. No computers, cellphones, TVs, email

or clocks — does such a place even exist?

Nikal Conti: a mentor/colleague’s view

Nikal Conti’s leadership style is transformative due to her many attributes, making her the successful leader and motivator she is today. She has reinforced the tangible incentives with an environment that encourages empowerment, communication and collaboration. What best describes

Nikal is “character.” Character is what you do when no one else is looking, and I believe it is the secret ingredient inside the best leaders. The most dynamic leaders practice “the six pillars of character,” and this is no different with Nikal. They have high standards and positive attitude. They tell the truth, keep promises and have the moral courage to stand up for their beliefs, even when it is hard to do so. They respect others and themselves. They accept responsibility and do what they are supposed to do. Dynamic leaders are fair and play by the rules. They care about others and are considerate and forgiving. They cooperate and build a better community. Nikal truly embodies these traits.

— Erik PetersonPrincipal, PHX Architecture

Nikal Conti Founding principal and owner, PHX Architecture

Diane Brown Executive director, Arizona Public Interest Research Group


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Mary Contre ras Agent owner, Contreras State Farm Agency

Mary Contreras: a mentor/colleague’s view

The mission statement of the Contreras State Farm Agency says it all: “Our mission is making you the hero in all of your insurance choices.” Mary Contreras lives that mission by being a hero herself. She gives back by providing free counseling for teen drivers on the importance of driving safely, as well as free

windshield glass replacement clinics. She also volunteers for countless community boards and nonprofi t initiatives, and is a tireless advocate for fi nancial education and empowerment programs for women and youth.

Always willing to open up her Rolodex, she is a natural collaborator and connector, encouraging professionals to explore how they can benefi t each other. Mary always operates with purpose and passion, dedicated to helping everyone she meets. Her success is a testament to her unselfi sh commitment to being of service to others and her unyielding desire to add value.

— Sharon LechterCEO, Pay Your Family First

Personal detailsHOMETOWN: Wall, S.D.FUN FACT: Loves painting the beauty of Arizona and often has a brush in handCOMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: chairman, Women in Business Council; board member,

Tri-City Chapter of National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors; Member, Chandler and Tempe chambers of commerce; director, Chandler Chamber Community Foundation; director, Women of Scottsdale

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Our team works daily to foster positive relationships while being

problem solvers and educators, and modeling integrity in our actions.Economic recovery: Arizona can benefi t from economic recovery if we are savvy and

nimble. Recent tax legislation in California should only serve to drive business to our soil. Let’s be ready!

Glass ceiling: The rich intelligence women can offer to corporate boards and businesses will improve those entities. I encourage my fellow women to explain what they want or need from their employers.

Education reform: Businesses must get more from our educational system, or they will leave Arizona. Math, science and fi nancial literacy are critical for our state to be successful.

Ultimate downtime: Standing in the wilds of Arizona with a paintbrush in hand. I love the beauty and the colors!



Julia Doll arhide Chief operations offi cer and senior vice president

Biltmore Bank of Arizona

Julia Dollarhide: a mentor/colleague’s view

In January 2005, just a year after we opened our bank, a young woman came into the offi ce completely unannounced and asked if the bank was hiring. She had just gotten married, and her husband’s job had brought her to Phoenix from the East Coast. Coincidentally, we had a pressing need to fi ll a critical opening as chief operations offi cer, which was a perfect match

with her experience. Sometimes in life, it is better to be lucky than smart, and on that day, I was very lucky she walked through our door.

Eight years later, that woman, Julia Dollarhide, is a well-respected member of our executive management team at the Biltmore Bank of Arizona. She is insightful, a consummate team player, and most important she leads by example. Julia’s selection as one of the 2013 Dynamic Women in Business is well-deserved, but not surprising to us, because we have seen her in action every day for the past eight years.

— Jeff GaiaChairman and CEO, Biltmore Bank of Arizona

Personal detailsFAMILY: Single mother of three childrenEDUCATION: Engineering and nuclear science coursework, Penn State University; graduate, Pacifi c

Coast Banking School; accredited Automated Clearing House ProfessionalHOMETOWN: Dairy farm region of Pennsylvania, between Mennonite and Amish communitiesFUN FACT: “In school, I truly loved science — so much so, in fact, that I took an honors course in

nuclear science my senior year. I also took the ASVAB exam. I scored very well and spoke with the Navy recruiter about their nuclear program. Imagine my surprise when I found that the only nuclear program available in the Navy was on submarines, which didn’t allow women at the time.”

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Active through St. Vincent de Paul, Charity and Development Appeal, and Delaware Valley Christian Camp; sponsor families from the Philippines, Guatemala and Madagascar through the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging “Hope for a Family” program; ACH committee chair, Viewpointe Clearing, Settlement and Association Services; board member, Better Business Bureau

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Lead by example and live the Golden Rule. Ineffective leaders dictate; dynamic

leaders DO.Economic recovery: We are not there yet and won’t get there as long as we continue to accept the “new

normal” high levels of unemployment. Glass ceiling: Attitude, not to mention elbow grease, is everything. It takes time, commitment and

perseverance to achieve your goals. Keep going; you will get there.Education reform: The top achievers are not challenged and have no initiative to strive for more. The

“level playing fi eld” tactic has taught everyone to be complacent and be the same. Ultimate downtime: Good food to share with good friends. This farm country girl lives for baking with/

for friends and family at home.

Christine Ehrich CEO, Industrial Solutions Network

Christine Ehrich: personal details

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in communications and management, University of Dayton

HOMETOWN: South Bend, Ind.FUN FACT: “I came to Arizona on a one-week adventure and fell

in love with it. I decided to move (from Ohio) without knowing a soul, without a job or a place to live. It was one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

EXPERIENCE: Started out as a marketing director for a large rehab company. While consulting for some physical therapy clinics to pay her way through college, she discovered an unmet need: There were employers looking to reduce their workers comp costs while getting better care for their injured workers. As a result, she created Industrial Solutions Network and now is expanding it into other areas of health care.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Having and communicating a vision people

can buy into and want to contribute to; creating a protected, familial environment that supports people to do their best work.

Economic recovery: We are in a rehab phase. There is a surge of optimism and growth that feels like things are returning.

Glass ceiling: Women have always had to work that much harder to get where they are. It truly is amazing to see how far women have come in the past 20 years.

Education reform: Classrooms are too big, and so many kids are not getting what they need because of the lack of accountability and focus.

Ultimate downtime: I enjoy hiking Squaw Peak and being out in nature. I love being a mother and having time with my two sons, ages 7 and 9.




Abb ie Fink Vice president and general manager, HMA Public Relations

Jean Hammelev Executive director, program management offi ce and quality

Laboratory Sciences of Arizona/Sonora Quest Laboratories

Abbie Fink: a mentor/colleague’s view

As vice chairman of the marketing committee of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale, Abbie Fink has been instrumental in enhancing the club’s marketing campaign with focused, clear messages about the club’s mission.She also has taken a personal interest in mentoring and coaching the younger staff in the marketing

department. They look to her for guidance and clarity during times of uncertainty. She is very passionate about her work and is not afraid to speak her mind and stand up for what she believes in, regardless of the consequences. She recently became a member of the executive committee and has helped shift the paradigm of board member involvement.

— Rick BakerExecutive vice president, First Fidelity Bank

Board member, Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale

Personal details

PET: Dog, VivaEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in journalism/public relations and master’s degree in mass

communications, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University

HOMETOWN: St. Paul, Minn.FUN FACT: “If someone would have told me when I organized a picket line in front of my elementary

school in support of a sixth-grade graduation dance and did my fi rst television interview, that this would become my career, I would have laughed and said: ‘It’s just what I do.’”

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Past president, Phoenix Chapter, Public Relations Society of America; executive board member, PRSA Counselors Academy; executive board member, Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale; adjunct faculty member, Arizona State University; president, Scottsdale Leadership Class XVII

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Big believer in servant leadership — before you can lead, you must fi rst serve.

Dynamic leaders know what it means to be a part of a team.Economic recovery: If the conversations our agency has been having with potential clients across the

region are any indication, we are defi nitely heading in the right direction.Glass ceiling: I haven’t experienced it, but I think we still have a ways to go before it is nonexistent.Education reform: Our future depends on good, quality education. Quit discussing it and make it happen.Ultimate downtime: Sun, water, a lounge chair, a good book and a glass of wine ... with my sister ... on a

cruise ship.

A few words about...

Dynamic leadership: Dynamic leaders inspire and develop others, are results-driven, solve problems, function as team members, are accountable, and never stop learning.

Economic recovery: Organizations and employees doing more with less, slower growth, ongoing unemployment and health care reform challenges.

Glass ceiling: Still exists, but less prevalent, at least in health care (my company is about 70 percent women). Today, more leadership opportunities are available to women.

Education reform: Parents should partner with great teachers to create the strategy to improve education and graduation rates in Arizona. We can’t only hold teachers accountable.

Ultimate downtime: Traveling and spending quality time with my family, relaxing while reading a good book and enjoying a glass of wine.

Personal details

FAMILY: Husband, Kevin; son, Matthew, 20, a junior at the University of Arizona; and daughter, Lauren, 18, a senior at Mountain Ridge High School in Glendale

EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in cytotechnology (cancer diagnosis), University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences–Grand Forks; MBA in health care management, University of Phoenix

HOMETOWN: Nashwauk, Minn.FUN FACT: She has served as a Malcolm

Baldrige National Quality Award examiner for the past seven years. She also is chairman of the Arizona Quality Alliance, the state’s Baldrige entity.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member, American Society for Clinical Pathology, American College of Healthcare Executives and Arizona Healthcare Executives; senior member, American Society for Quality

Jean Hammelev: a mentor/colleague’s view

Jean Hammelev is results-oriented, and she continually raises the bar for quality improvement — not only for our company, but externally as well. For the past seven years, she has been a nationally certifi ed Baldrige examiner and has served as chair of the Arizona Quality Alliance. She also excels in

charitable and community service leadership by leading our employee efforts to provide much-needed meals for Arizona’s food banks.

Jean truly lives the values of our organization: quality, integrity, collaboration, accountability and compassion. Combined with a great work ethic and a strong will to succeed and make a difference, those values make her an outstanding leader and a consummate health care professional in every respect.

— David DexterPresident and CEO, Sonora Quest Laboratories and Laboratory Sciences of Arizona




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Conventions, Shareholder Packets, Promotional Materials, Trade Shows,

Press Kits, and Sales Collateral.

Contact Katrina Alfaro for a free quote.

602.308.6503

Order reprints of the articles that

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Courtney Klein-Johnson Co-founder, Seed Spot

Courtney Klein-Johnson: a mentor/colleague’s view

The only problem with dreaming bigger is that you do most of it without a pillow. — I love this quote. It came from Courtney Klein-Johnson, who clearly dreams big and works tirelessly.

I vividly recall our very fi rst meeting — her infectious enthusiasm and passion, and how she made the 16 people around the table at the Arizona Biltmore into believers of what is now New Global Citizens. She was a fresh graduate of Arizona State University, with the wisdom and abilities of someone decades older. Today, through Seed Spot, we’re enjoying offshoots of what Courtney makes possible through her smarts, creative approaches and big vision. Many of us are also experiencing the benefi ts of her wise counsel as she advises some of her older friends on how best to reach, attract and inspire her generation of leaders, doers and dreamers.

— Denise ResnikPresident, DRA Communications

Personal details

FAMILY: Married to a farmerEDUCATION: Undergraduate and

master’s degrees in nonprofi t management, Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College

FUN FACT: Entered ASU with aspirations of becoming the next Katie Couric; but after her freshman year, she traveled to a rural village in Mexico to volunteer for the summer and was astonished by the difference in quality of life. Disheartened that the people of her generation were either unaware of global challenges or felt incapable of changing them, she changed her major to nonprofi t management.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Entrepreneur in residence at ASU

A few words about...

Dynamic leadership: Acknowledging what you don’t know and surrounding yourself with people who do is the strongest form of leadership.

Economic recovery: The resurgence of the economy will be contingent on how seriously we invest in growing and retaining our own local talent. Investing in startups is key.

Glass ceiling: Instead of trying to break through someone else’s glass ceiling, build a new house with higher roofs.

Education reform: Big, bold, audacious action is the only way forward. Cautious change will leave us playing catch-up in perpetuity. Engage young people in the fast pace of change.

Ultimate downtime: Bikram yoga.

PROVIDED BY SEED SPOT


Sharon Knutson-Felix Executive director, 100 Club of Arizona

Anne Kleindienst Shareholder, Polsinelli Shugart

Personal detailsEDUCATION: Undergraduate degreee in politics and government, Ohio Wesleyan

University; Juris Doctor, University of Virginia School of LawHOMETOWN: PhoenixFUN FACT: “My father’s grandfather settled in the small railroad town of Winslow, while

Arizona was still a territory. I grew up in Phoenix. ... My father found his path in the law and politics (he served as attorney general under President Richard Nixon). My mother found hers in community service. I am honored to follow in their footsteps.”

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: General counsel and executive committee member, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce; past president, Arizona Women Lawyers Association– Maricopa Chapter; active in state and national bar associations

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Leadership that is forward-looking and inclusive, and refuses to take

“no” for an answer.Economic recovery: Promoting a business-friendly environment that incentivizes innovation

and limits governmental interference will result in increased employment and prosperity.Glass ceiling: Break the glass ceiling by continually educating the business community as to

practices that, intentionally or not, hold back women or minorities from advancement.Education reform: Foster competition and choice in K-12 education through charter schools

or similar programs, and promote programs within our public educational system that reward academic achievement.

Ultimate downtime: Broadening my horizons and knowledge through travel; seeking the perfect photograph while traveling; and enjoying a good novel.

Anne Kleindienst: a mentor/colleague’s view

When I was president of the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, we unexpectedly lost our general counsel of many years. Anne Kleindienst stepped in without missing a beat. She guided us through a period of great change, offering sound advice, encouragement and outreach based

on her strong relationships within the business community.Two years ago, she left her law fi rm to begin a new practice at Polsinelli

Shugart. It takes courage and drive to uproot yourself and join a new group of partners. Anne navigated that change with grace, and her clients — both new and longstanding — have benefi ted from her fresh perspective.

Most important, Anne is a leader willing to help others change. When I called on her to spend time with a recent law school graduate who was struggling to fi nd direction, she did not hesitate to assist. Helping organizations, clients or associates through times of change, with wise advice and a wry sense of humor — that is what makes Anne Kleindienst a dynamic leader in our business community.

— Katie PushorFounder and principal, Inner Capital

Past president and CEO, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce

Sharon Knutson-Felix: personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, David Felix; son, Justin, serving in U.S. Army; daughter, Misty,

communication specialist for Arizona Department of Public Safety; grandchildren, Sharon, Leora, Johnie, Grace, Ricky and Claire

EDUCATION: Studied criminal justice at Scottsdale Community CollegeHOMETOWN: Grew up in a parsonage in the SouthFUN FACT: She is a graduate of the FBI Citizens’ Academy.COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Since losing her fi rst husband — Doug, a DPS offi cer — in the

line of duty, she has provided peer support and assistance through Law Enforcement Families, been active with Concerns of Police Survivors, and served as an adviser to the Arizona Peace Offi cers Memorial Board. She has been recognized for her support of victims’ families by the U.S. Attorney for Arizona, DPS, the New York City Police Commissioner, U.S. Border Patrol, FBI, Phoenix Association of Realtors and others.

EXPERIENCE: In addition to her community work, she is the author of “Gifts My Father Gave Me: Finding Joy After Tragedy” and speaks at events nationwide, sharing her experiences growing up.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Dynamic leadership starts with passion. Passion drives wisdom and

knowledge, which in turn allow one to lead, inspire and infl uence others.Economic recovery: Life is a cycle, and experience teaches you that you cannot control the

economy as a whole, but you can help others along the way, in good or bad times.Glass ceiling: I’ve never tried to break a glass ceiling, nor had a desire to. I get up every

day asking how I can make a difference in someone else’s life.Education reform: Our schools have become teachers of social issues instead of

fundamental education. Money is spent at the top levels, not on the children or the front-line teachers.

Ultimate downtime: I love shopping with my grandkids, putting together a diffi cult puzzle and wearing my pajamas all day once in a while.




Mary Martuscelli President, West region, U.S. Bank

Sharon Lechter Founder and CEO, Pay Your Family First

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband of 33 years, Michael; children and grandchildrenEDUCATION: Accounting degree, Florida State UniversityBIRTHPLACE: FloridaFUN FACT: In 2008, President George W. Bush asked her to serve on the fi rst President’s Advisory

Council on Financial Literacy.COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Instructor, Thunderbird School of Global Management’s Project Artemis and

Global Cohort; board member, Childhelp, Women Presidents’ Organization and EmpowHer; national spokeswoman, American Institute of Certifi ed Public Accountants’ Commission on Financial Literacy

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Being both a cheerleader and a pit boss with the discernment of knowing when each

is needed to reach defi ned goals.Economic recovery: Will occur when the economy returns to free people with free speech able to practice

free enterprise in free markets adding sustainable value to that economy.Glass ceiling: There is no glass ceiling in owning your own business, entrepreneurship. Otherwise, glass

ceilings are there for you to shatter as a steppingstone to success.Education reform: Stop asking children to memorize and regurgitate information. Provide experiential

learning and life skills preparing them for the real world as problem solvers and critical thinkers.Ultimate downtime: Watching the sun set at the ocean with my husband, great friends, good food and fi ne

champagne — with a tomorrow fi lled with anticipation.

Sharon Lechter: a mentor/colleague’s view

Sharon Lechter is a successful person in many areas of endeavor. A path to help women, both those working in business and those following entrepreneurship routes to success, is Sharon’s passion. Teaching the accumulation and manage ment of money also has brought her skills to the classroom, the boardroom and the offi ces

of two U.S. presidents, who asked her to serve on the Financial Literary Board.Sharon’s life has been devoted to helping others with little or no consideration for

herself. As executive director of the nonprofi t Napoleon Hill Foundation, I started a new book a few years ago with Greg Reid, a businessperson trying to get started as an author. I made trips to New York with Reid and met with various publishers and got very little interest. The book needed depth. I called Sharon and asked for help, and without hesitation she said yes. Reid’s book became a best-seller on the Amazon, Barnes and Noble and Wall Street Journal lists.

— Don GreenExecutive director, Napoleon Hill Foundation

Personal detailsFAMILY: Married 17 yearsEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in fi nance, Michigan State University; MBA, Wayne State

UniversityHOMETOWN: Detroit areaFUN FACT: In her fi rst six weeks in her new position, she toured U.S. Bank’s operations in

seven states to connect individually with all 300 of the employees in her market. “I came home with lots of notes and a real sense of connection to the people in my region.”

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Be motivating, inclusive and collaborative. Be enthusiastic and passionate

about life. Overcommunicate. Have conviction. Be open and honest. Believe in all people. Glass ceiling: I am grateful to all the fabulous women who came before me who paved the way

so that I and others did not experience the glass ceiling. Economic recovery: Arizona is on its way back, but we must develop a diversifi ed economic

base so we are not so reliant on real estate and tourism. Education reform: Business leaders, legislators, educators and citizens must set a goal to have

the best-educated students in the country, and develop a plan to achieve that goal.Ultimate downtime: Going on a long hike with friends and family, followed by a home-cooked

meal to enjoy each other’s company.

Mary Martuscelli: a mentor/colleague’s view

Mary Martuscelli is a visionary business leader who also makes it a priority to lend her expertise to a number of important community organizations.

At the Arizona Community Foundation, she serves in key roles that are helping shape the foundation’s community impact and leadership

statewide. As chair of the foundation’s impact investing committee, she is guiding ACF’s newest and most innovative philanthropic investment program, the Community Impact Loan Fund. Mary also chairs the Fresh Start Women’s Foundation and is fi nance chair for the Arizona Science Center, and she serves on the board of the 2015 Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee.

During her banking career, Mary has helped guide community investments, partnering often with ACF and other corporate, community and philanthropic organizations to support critical programs and deliver needed services. Arizona is lucky to have a passionate leader like her.

— Steve Seleznow President and CEO, Arizona Community Foundation

PROVIDED BY U.S. BANK

PROVIDED BY PAY YOUR FAMILY FIRST


MaryAnn Mill erSenior vice president and chief human resources offi cerAvnet Inc.

Kare n McConnell Partner, Ballard Spahr LLP

Chair, Ballard’s national M&A/private equity group

Karen McConnell: personal detailsFAMILY: Husband of 30 years, Mark; son, Matt, analyst at Credit Suisse; daughter,

Megan, student at University of VirginiaEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in business, Ohio University; law degree, University of

Notre DameBIRTHPLACE: Ontario, CanadaFUN FACT: “In the winter my dad would build an ice rink in our backyard, complete with

hockey goals, and our house would be the place to hang out in the neighborhood. I mostly played left defense and dreamed of marrying Bobby Orr, the star of the Boston Bruins.”

EXPERIENCE: Entire career has been as a business lawyer, focusing on mergers and acquisitions, securities, and general corporate law

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: All good leaders are dynamic in their own way — some overtly,

others more quietly.Economic recovery: I see it happening each day! Glass ceiling: I have not witnessed a glass ceiling in my career. If anything, being a

woman has been a positive in being an effective business lawyer. Education reform: Quality education for all children should be a right and has to be

demanded. Nothing less is acceptable. Education is what opened doors for me. Ultimate downtime: Flagstaff, slight breeze, smell of the pines, trying to break 100 for

the fi rst time on the golf course.

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband and three childrenEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in political science, University of Illinois-Chicago;

executive master’s degree, W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State UniversityHOMETOWN: ChicagoFUN FACT: “My father was a fi rst-generation immigrant who worked in construction, and

my mother was a homemaker. We were raised with the knowledge that family and food are at the core of happiness, and integrity and work ethic were the keys to success.”

EXPERIENCE: After receiving bachelor’s degree, entered management training program at Allstate Insurance Co.; worked there for 10 years. Stayed home with children for six years, then decided it was time to return to pursuit of career goals; path went from CellularOne to OrthoLogic, Goodrich and fi nally to Avnet.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Dynamic leaders inspire and engage, adapt quickly, respond to

change fl uidly, and always guide their teams to where the business and market are headed.

Economic recovery: While the economy is slowly recovering, people need to recognize there is a new economic “norm” and reshape their ideas of work and career.

Glass ceiling: Women must navigate a labyrinth of complex career and life decisions. Companies need to understand these challenges and enable a path to accelerate their growth.

Education reform: We need to change the culture of education by appropriately rewarding highly committed teachers, and teaching the complex problem-solving skills needed in the workforce.

Ultimate downtime: The spa. I am very driven and thrive on challenges, but as soon as I open the door to a spa, my cares melt away.

MaryAnn Miller: a mentor/colleague’s view

MaryAnn Miller is a vital senior leader within Avnet Inc. It’s an honor for me to share my perspective on a special colleague whose attributes put her in rare air in terms of her overall capabilities.

What sets her apart from most chief human resource offi cers — beyond being highly capable in her fi eld — is her ability to balance the needs of Avnet’s employees with the needs of our business. She takes a “listen and learn” approach to new situations and knows how to bring people together to fi nd common ground. Her competency and style have made her a trusted partner to Avnet’s global leadership team, which is incredibly valuable.

While she has deep knowledge about the human resources fi eld and is constantly digesting the latest best practices, she always looks at her team’s role in the organization from a business perspective, searching for ways to add more value and accelerate our success. MaryAnn is intelligent and accountable, has a strong work ethic, and is a broad thinker. She continues to expand her own skills and knowledge, and she brings passion to her job while promoting having fun in the workplace. She has helped — and will continue to help — Avnet conceive and reach audacious goals.

— Roy ValleeRetired chairman and CEO, Avnet Inc.




Nikal Conti says “Thank you Phoenix Business Journal for the recognition, and a big thank you to our PHX Architecture team, Principals Erik Peterson and Scott Carson, along with Jaclyn Meads, Stuart Traynor, Tom Bell, Jeannine Engh, Ivonek Badilla, Nang Ma, Chris Yeley, Margie Haber, Maurita Walker, Adam Valente, Danny Gonzales, Laura Hughes, and John Campbell (above). Each of you put the “Dynamic” in our business! A big “Thank You” to Robert Conti who taught me everything important. And to all of my colleagues, friends, and family- You make it possible!”

T H E P E O P L E W H O M A K E P H X A R C H I T E C T U R E DY N A M I C

phxarch.com | 480.477.1111 | [email protected]

Harriet

Mountcastle-Walsh Vice president and general counsel

for law, contracts and export complianceHoneywell Aerospace

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband of 18 years, Joe Walsh; four childrenEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in economics (summa cum laude), Miami University,

Oxford, Ohio; Juris Doctorate (cum laude), Harvard Law SchoolHOMETOWN: Akron, Ohio; raised on a small farmFUN FACT: After receiving her undergraduate degree, she served as a White House intern

for Vice President George W. Bush.COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Active in the Arizona Women’s Leadership Forum;

chairperson for Honeywell’s Political Action in Arizona

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: A dynamic leader communicates relentlessly, listens intently, shares

vision and constantly adjusts.Economic recovery: We are all living with economic uncertainty. It is time to be frugal, yet

invest in science, technology and education to fuel the engine that has made the U.S. strong.

Glass ceiling: We are well-poised to put strong women in the most senior positions in the corporate sector. Our job as leaders is to make that happen.

Education reform: We have long underfunded many core areas of our education system. Investment in science, technology and math education is imperative.

Ultimate downtime: Balance and downtime are non-negotiable. The strongest, most successful women I know don’t compromise here.

Harriet Mountcastle-Walsh: a mentor/colleague’s view

Harriet Mountcastle-Walsh is highly knowledgeable and skilled in the legal and contract profession while enabling growth and improved business performance. She is a great leader who communicates and imprints in such a way that every muscle, organ and tissue of the organization is informed,

aligned and performing exceptionally well. Harriet is a clear leader who sets the standard high, leads by example and inspires

those around her. Her leadership style breeds confi dence across the organization such that others are encouraged to step out of their areas of functional excellence and infl uence other areas with greater outcomes.

— Tim MahoneyPresident and CEO, Honeywell Aerospace


Margare t Mull en Chief operating offi cer, Science Foundation Arizona

Cindy Nieves Director of digital marketing operations, iAcquire


Margaret Mullen: a mentor/colleague’s view

Margaret Mullen is an extraordinary leader. She’s smart, grasps complex issues quickly, can organize a team to get things done that most people think impossible, and has the highest integrity for doing business properly one can possibly imagine. “Full disclosure even when people

aren’t watching” is her motto. From the Downtown Phoenix Partnership to the Diamondbacks stadium to the creation and operation of Science Foundation Arizona, countless projects have Margaret’s fi ngerprints on their success. She is a true Arizona talent.

— Don BudingerChairman, Science Foundation Arizona

Chairman, Rodel Foundation of Arizona

Personal detailsFAMILY: A brother and two sistersEDUCATION: U.S. Air Force Academy; working toward Ph.D. in organizational developmentHOMETOWN: Born in Puerto Rico, but calls the Philadelphia area “home” since she spent a

good bit of her childhood thereFUN FACT: Has participated in several competitive skydiving teams, including one

representing the U.S. Air Force at the 2006 World Military Games in Russia. She met her fi ance, Blane, on a professional skydiving team. They are getting married in May.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: The ability to equip and empower others around you to become leaders.

Great leaders know how to follow, and that means knowing what your team needs to be successful.

Economic recovery: Continues to struggle because of our narrow objectives to solve today’s problems. We need sustainable solutions for tomorrow combined with a greater understanding of what the people need.

Glass ceiling: What glass ceiling? My mom empowered me to be a strong, independent woman. She always said you cannot be held back by what you don’t know is a barrier.

Education reform: Comes in the form of opportunity. Education facilitates opportunities, but it’s up to you to embrace it.

Ultimate downtime: I envision a deserted island, writing my book, sailing, scuba and running.

Cindy Nieves: a mentor/colleague’s view

Cindy Nieves is one of those leaders whose passion for learning and innovation is contagious. I have worked with her for several years and have seen her excel at every role she has been in. She sets a clear strategy and leads her team toward it.

Cindy holds herself very high standards, remains humble, and jumps in to quickly remove barriers in her team’s path. Her relentless pursuit to solve everything at its core not only creates immediate operational effi ciencies, but sets the tone for the rest of the organization on how to get stuff done. She has a track record of developing great leaders through targeted coaching, training and contextual feedback. Said differently, people want to be on Cindy’s team. Attracting talent and placing the right people in the right positions have built a solid foundation for her career, and I can’t wait to see how far it goes.

— Jeff MooreSenior product manager, Amazon.com

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, Tom Jennings; children and grandchildren across the countryPET: An Australian cattle dog named GGEDUCATION: Law degreeFUN FACT: Now has been honored among the most infl uential local businesswomen by the

Business Journals in both Raleigh, N.C., and PhoenixCOMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Past chairman, International Downtown Association; member,

International Women’s Forum; board member, Arizona Opportunities Industrialization Center; founding board member, Home Base Youth Services; past member (six years), Phoenix Central City Village Planning Committee; past board member (12 years), Homeward Bound

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Knowing when to take risks versus when “good” is better than “perfect”

without ever compromising your ethics, and being fair and professional with everyone along the way.

Economic recovery: Slower than it would be if we had invested more in education and had bipartisan support for real problems facing our state, rather than dealing with silliness.

Glass ceiling: Still exists, but many young leaders never knew it. For women my age (63), we have an enormous responsibility to mentor those who will replace us at the table.

Education reform: This is my hot-button issue, because for the 30-plus years I’ve been in economic development in Arizona, our poor education standing has been the biggest drawback to business recruitment and retention.

Ultimate downtime: Reading a great book, traveling or playing ball with my dog.




®

Robe rta “Siss ie”

Robe rts Shank CEO, Chas Roberts Air Conditioning & Plumbing

Sissie Roberts Shank: a mentor/colleague’s view

Sissie Shank has built on the legacy of Chas Roberts Air Conditioning and Plumbing, the company started by her grandfather and built to further success by her father, to create a high-performance culture that rivals any in Arizona today. When she saw the housing market slow down, she took immediate action, realigning expenses to match decreasing

revenue and bravely seeking new revenue streams. Family businesses have often challenging dynamics. As tempting as it may be to choose a

family relationship over the business, Sissie always fi nds the strength and courage to do what is right for the business. She is a focused leader who gets the job done while treating people with respect and dignity.

Those in her Vistage CEO peer advisory group call her an amazing person, both gracious and generous. One of her peers recalls a time when she was not able to make payroll — until she received a text message from Sissie, who said she was willing to provide a cash advance. Because of her selfl essness, her peer’s company overcame that rough period and thrived.

— Karie MontagueChair, Vistage

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband and three children: Joey, 18, and twins Bob and Rachel, 20.EDUCATION: Bachelor of Science, Arizona State UniversityHOMETOWN: PhoenixFUN FACT: She and her dog, Sam, spend time working with underprivileged youth.EXPERIENCE: Working part time for the family business since age 14, she also worked as a programmer

through high school and college. She took over the company when the CEO — her father, Chuck — died in 1999.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: Dynamic leadership is about engaging and mentoring your team members as

individuals to achieve the collective goal of the group. Economic recovery: If you’re waiting for economic recovery, you’ve already waited too long. Glass ceiling: The only glass ceiling that can hold you back is the one you don’t break. Education reform: Every child is different, and no one system will work for everyone. Aim high, and strive

for a balance between book-smart and street-smart.Ultimate downtime: My ultimate downtime is time spent with family and friends, or on horseback —

preferably somewhere the phone isn’t ringing.


Nicole

France StantonPartner, Quarles & Brady LLP

Trish Stark Senior vice president, First Western Trust


Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton; son, Trevor, 6; daughter, Violet, 2EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in communications, University of Utah; law degree, University of ArizonaHOMETOWN: Coalville, Utah (just east of Park City)FUN FACT: “I didn’t even know I could become a lawyer until I was in college. My mass communications law

professor encouraged me to pursue a career in the law.”COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member, Charter 100 Women; Valley Leadership Class XXIX; founding board

member and past president, Phoenix Art Museum’s Women’s Metropolitan Arts Council. As “First Lady of Phoenix,” she is leading a campaign to prevent bullying.

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: A great leader inspires not just with words, but with her actions. Actions speak much

louder than any words.Economic recovery: The key moving forward is to build a stronger local economy. Quality jobs that bring higher

wages to our community must be our focus. Glass ceiling: The more women in leadership, the better off all of us are. I’ve never felt a glass ceiling in my

workplace thanks to wonderful mentors and colleagues. Education reform: We know the future of our economy and the future of our schools are one and the same. We

should support education excellence at public, charter and private schools. Ultimate downtime: I cherish time with my two young children. It is my ultimate sanctuary. Downtime for us

means a visit to the Arizona Science Center, Phoenix Zoo or Children’s Museum.

Nicole France Stanton: a mentor/colleague’s view

At a political fundraiser last fall, Nicole Stanton was introducing a candidate when a woman whispered to another attendee, “Well, her life’s a fairy tale, isn’t it?”

Sure, Nicole is blonde, graceful, well-spoken, an excellent lawyer, wife to the mayor of Phoenix and mother to two adorable kids. But growing up in a little Utah town, she was the

loving sister of a boy who was bullied and beaten for being different, and then she lost him to AIDS altogether too early in life.

They say that which does not kill us makes us stronger. It must be true, because few others have such reserves of strength, show such grace under pressure and are so determined to change the community into one in which no one is singled out, ridiculed, demeaned or made to feel less than worthy. It’s no wonder Nicole is the leader of what can only be described as a movement. Fairy tale? Who knows? But she’s living happily ever after, leading, inspiring, fi ghting on.

— Leezie KimPartner, Quarles & Brady LLP

Trish Stark: a mentor/colleague’s view

In 1982, a junior-level banking executive made unsolicited sales calls on my business in Scottsdale. That was my introduction to Trish Stark, who now is an accomplished and dynamic senior banking executive, as well as my best friend and trusted confi dante.

I have taken great pride in witnessing the professional and personal growth of this talented woman, who started her career in an era when women had to work harder and produce more than their male counterparts to achieve the same level of success. Trish is dedicated to our community and volunteers her time on many philanthropic boards and institutions. Her tremendous networking efforts have been instrumental in connecting clients and friends with resources beyond the banking business. She has an innate ability to interpret the professional needs of a diverse banking clientele.

Trish is not only a smart and dedicated businesswoman, but also a loving wife and mother, a great friend to many, and an example to other young professional women pursuing a business career.

— Elyse SiolesFormer owner and president (retired), Westar Kitchen and Bath

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, Greg; son, Matt, 16EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in marketing and MBA, Arizona State UniversityHOMETOWN: ChicagoFUN FACT: Stark was the fi rst one in her family, on either parent’s side, to obtain a college degree.COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Member, ASU board of trustees; advisory board member, ASU’s Lodestar Center for

Philanthropy and Innovation; trustee, Catholic Community Foundation; professional advisory board member, Arizona Community Foundation; active in Central Arizona and Paradise Valley estate planning councils; Valley Leadership Class XIV

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: The art of motivating others by communicating a vision for the future based on an understanding

of what is and what could be.Economic recovery: Uncertainty slows recovery. We need nonpartisan leadership to address the national debt and

defi cit realistically to create a more robust economic recovery. Glass ceiling: Many courageous women before me broke through the glass ceiling. Wonderful mentors, both male

and female, helped me navigate through it. I’m forever grateful.Education reform: Access to quality education for today’s youth — not only in math and science, but in fi nancial

acumen — helps build a brighter future for all.Ultimate downtime: Having completely unstructured time, with no responsibilities, to spend truly living in the

moment with my family or friends, or just by myself.

TIM KOORS | SPECIAL TO PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL


Doroth y Wol den Principal and creative director, Gravity Webworks


Event Partner:

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, Tim; sons, AJ (hospital corpsman, U.S. Navy) and Zach (engineering student)EDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in graphic design and visual communicationsHOMETOWN: Born in New York; grew up in ScottsdaleFUN FACT: After having her boys and spending fi ve years as a stay-at-home mom, she returned

to school to study graphic design and photography. She graduated as class valedictorian while juggling being a mom, wife and part-time worker.

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Board member, National Association of Women Business owners; co-founder, Platform Scottsdale; advisory board member, Honor Walk Foundation; pro bono projects for many nonprofi ts

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: It is fl uid, allowing a leader to react to challenges and change proactively, with

vision, passion and thoughtfulness. Economic recovery: Although recovery has been slow, we can’t keep pointing our fi ngers at

government. Businesspeople must make sound decisions that foster growth and create a more stable economy.

Glass ceiling: I struggle with this term. Although I know it exists, my personal motto has always been that if I believe there are limitations to what I can accomplish, then there will be.

Education reform: Many of our national issues stem from our failed education system. Education reform is not a debatable topic; the successful future of our nation depends on it.

Ultimate downtime: A good book on the beach with my family.

Dorothy Wolden: a mentor/colleague’s view

Dorothy stands out in a crowd of successful women business owners by her ability to achieve success in large, complex projects while attending to details with care and remaining aware of and sensitive to the experience of the others on her team. She is well-known on our board as a go-to person when the project is complex and important.

Her dedication to the members, partners and community at large shines in her willingness to jump in and motivate others to get involved. It is always a pleasure to be on Dorothy’s team.

Every year I have served with her in NAWBO, I have been increasingly impressed by her impact and the improvements she has not only suggested, but brought into reality through her dedication. Her creativity is balanced with her practicality, making her ideas highly valuable, fresh and cutting-edge. She sets the ultimate example to follow as a dynamic leader.

— Lynda BishopPhoenix Chapter president, National Association of Women Business Owners


Cath y ValenzuelaRegional president, East ValleyArizona Business Bank/CoBiz Financial

Patricia Tate CFO and vice president, Talking Stick Resort and Casino Arizona


Patricia Tate: personal detailsEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, University of Arizona; MBA; master’s

degree in fi nancial management, Keller Graduate School

COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Advisory member, Boys and Girls Clubs, Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community Red Mountain Branch and Lehi Branch; member, board of governors, Boys and Girls Club of Greater Scottsdale; chairwoman, Salt River Financial Services Institution; board member, Salt River Devco

COMPANY INVOLVEMENT: Joined Casino Arizona in 2004 as fi nance controller, handling fi nancial statement presentation and treasury administration; current position includes that plus securing company assets and managing numerous departments within the organization

PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE: Prior to joining the organization, Tate was a fi nancial reporting/SEC manager at Three-Five Systems, a Phoenix public company. Her 15 years of management experience also included working for CompassLearning Inc. and Casino of the Sun.

Personal detailsFAMILY: Husband, JerryPETS: A beagle, parakeets and the occasional fostered dog or catEDUCATION: Bachelor’s degree in business, Arizona State UniversityHOMETOWN: A small town in southeast WisconsinFUN FACT: She and her husband enjoy scuba diving and traveling, and love spending

their free time making plans for their next vacationCOMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT: Board member, Business Development Finance Corp.;

member, Construction Financial Management Association and Risk Management Association; actively involved in her church; serves as an advocate for abandoned and abused animals

A few words about...Dynamic leadership: A dynamic leader is not interested in personal power, but

empowers others to be successful and have self-confi dence in their decision-making abilities.

Economic recovery: Daily conversations with business owners indicate a very hopeful, positive trend. Loans for expansion — always a good sign — have been increasing as well.

Glass ceiling: Women and minorities who have broken it need to become mentors for others to help them understand how to overcome barriers to advancement.

Education reform: Our future will be determined by the quality of education we provide to our children. We need education reform so the U.S. doesn’t continue to lose its competitive edge.

Ultimate downtime: BlackBerry off, nice glass of wine, sitting quietly with my husband and dog, sharing plans for vacation or reading or just hanging out.

Cathy Valenzuela: a mentor/colleague’s view

Cathy Valenzuela has been a dynamic and successful commercial banker in Arizona for more than 25 years. She currently leads a commercial banking team as president of the East Valley and Chandler banks for Arizona Business Bank.

Cathy is one of those people whose enthusiasm for her role is always at the forefront, and therefore contagious. She always walks into a room with an outstretched hand and a welcoming, easy smile. Customers and colleagues alike can attest to the unique style of creativity and enthusiasm she brings to her role.

Her leadership is about doing things the right way the fi rst time and encouraging implementation of best practices. She is a very results-oriented, high-energy person who inspires with constant examples of confi dence, hard work and laughter. Cathy realizes that introspection and personal development are keys to good leadership, so she constantly strives to learn and improve.

With a high level of personal and professional integrity, she leads by example. Her leadership is dynamic, infectious and, most important, effective.

— Julie ChaseSenior vice president, CoBiz Financial

TIM KOORS | SPECIAL TO PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL

PROVIDED BY TALKING STICK RESORT/CASINO ARIZONA

No one achieves their potential if they think there is a ceiling over their head.

— Christine Aguilera

Standing in the wilds of Arizona with a paintbrush in hand. I love the beauty and the colors!

— Mary Contreras

Ultimate downtime

Although recovery has been slow, we can’t keep pointing our fi ngers at government. Businesspeople must make sound decisions that foster growth and create a more stable economy.— Dorothy Wolden

Slower than it would be if we had invested more in education and had bipartisan support for real problems facing our state, rather than dealing with silliness.

— Margaret Mullen

It will cease to exist when we are led by representative groups of all minorities, sexes and ages, and it is truly the best person who steps into that top spot.

— Nikal Conti

I love shopping with my grandkids, putting together a diffi cult puzzle and wearing my pajamas all day once in a while.

— Sharon Knutson-Felix

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Being both a cheerleader and a pit boss, with the discernment of

knowing when each is needed to reach defi ned goals.

—Sharon Lechter

Our future depends on good, quality education.

Quit discussing it and make it happen.

— Abbie Fink

Undoubtedly the toughest reform society faces; however,

parental involvement and empowering teachers would be the best start

I can envision. — Michelle Ahlmer

Start with vision and exemplary performance. Add listening and learning

from others, willingness to take risks, accessibility,

approachability, humor and hard work.

— Diane Brown

Each time I put together a special supplement, I fi nd that certain responses stand out and demand a little extra attention. That

was most defi nitely the case with this amazing group of women.

Here are my picks for this issue. These responses to our “A few words about...” questions made me smile, nod, giggle or stop to think for a minute. I hope they will do the same for you, and that you’ll fi nd similar nuggets to enjoy and discuss throughout this supplement.

Thanks for reading!

— Kat BryantAssociate Editor

Glass ceiling

Economic recovery

Education reform

Congratulations to Cathy Valenzuela on being selected as one of Phoenix Business Journal’s Top 25 Dynamic Women in Business. Thank you for your leadership in our organization, as well as in our community. Your dedication to providing our clients creative solutions and excellent customer service helped to make us the premier community bank in Arizona.

Editor’s Pick s


Dynamic leadership

Bring your passion for delivering world-class service to American Express. Visit us at:

careers.americanexpress.com/worldservice

We are an equal opportunity employer.

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Making the right decisions means doing right by our customers. When

Cardmembers needed help getting out of harm’s way as a hurricane struck,

American Express empowered my team to deliver communications for loved

ones and increased credit limits. Now that’s delivering extraordinary service.

Deborah Small Business Network

36 WOMEN IN BUSINESS PHOENIX BUSINESS JOURNAL February 22, 2013phoenix.bizjournals.com

25 in...ongratulations to the 2013 Dynamic Women in Business honorees in the Phoenix community! Last...

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