Community Leaders Creating Lasting Impact

The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona’s staff is a team of dedicated professionals committed to building a stronger, more equitable Southern Arizona. Together, they connect donors, nonprofits, and community partners to address local needs and inspire collaborative solutions. Guided by CFSA’s mission and values, this team works every day to turn generosity into meaningful impact across our region.

Interested in joining CFSA’s team? Explore job opportunities here.

Jeanne Alegria
(she/her/hers)

Jeanne has been in the accounting field for over 18 years, and recently joined CFSA in May 2022. She is loving this opportunity to work with such an awesome team! Jeanne’s passion is knowing she’s made a positive impact on others, and she’s excited to take on new challenges with lots of diversity.

Jeanne enjoys spending time with her family, dancing, and doing outdoor activities (hiking, volleyball, and swimming).

Amy Amoroso
aamoroso@cfsaz.org
(she/her/ella)

Amy Amoroso’s unique experience includes working with and for Native American tribes in natural and cultural resource conservation, teaching technical and environmental writing, and, most recently, as Development Director for a bi-national conservation nonprofit based in Tucson. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Indigenous Studies from Hobart and William Smith Colleges, a self-designed interdisciplinary major covering history, culture, and politics, and the contemporary experience of indigenous peoples, and a Master of Science in Environmental Studies with a focus on communications from Antioch University.

Amy’s experience includes serving on nonprofit boards, facilitating and bi-national and multicultural convenings, managing a tribally funded regional grants program, managing a tribal language reintroduction program, and raising hundreds of thousands of dollars to implement programs and projects.

As Senior Community Impact Manager for CFSA, she supports the African American Legacy Fund, the LGBTQ+ Alliance Fund, and the Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Fund, along with supporting the evolving needs of our vibrant community as a member of the community impact team.

When not working, Amy can be found on stage with improv teams, in a coffee shop writing poetry, hiking in Arizona’s Sky Islands, or traveling the world with her husband, John, and son, Marco.

Missy Bowden
(she/her/hers)

Missy Bowden has been the Chief Financial Officer for the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona since 2013.  She previously spent 25 years in banking, the last 17 of which as Chief Financial Officer of the Bank of Tucson and Vice President of Bank Performance for Capital Bancorp Ltd. where she was a “virtual” CFO to multiple banks in the Western US. She developed an interest in working in the nonprofit sector by serving on the board of La Paloma Family Services for 11 years.  She also served on the board of the Arizona Center for the Study of Children and Families.

Dr. Eli Burke
he/him/his
Dr. Eli Burke is the Senior Community Impact Manager at the Center for Healthy Nonprofits, where they spend their days helping mission-driven organizations turn good intentions into meaningful impact. With roots in art education, design thinking, and community-engaged work, Eli brings a creative, people-centered approach to systems change.

Before joining the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, Eli led large-scale experiential learning programs and partnered with nonprofits, artists, and educators to design initiatives grounded in equity, care, and curiosity. They’re known for asking thoughtful questions, building strong relationships, and finding clarity in complexity.

When not working, Eli can usually be found making art, chasing desert sunsets, or imagining what’s possible when we design the future on purpose.

Lilith Clark
(she/her/hers)

Lilith graduated from the University of Arizona in 2025 with a Bachelor’s in Philosophy, Politics, Economics, and Law (PPEL) and is currently pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy. She serves as CFSA’s Evaluation and Assessment Intern, where she brings together philosophy and data analysis to support positive outcomes for the community.

Outside of work and school, she enjoys reading and watching gymnastics.

Monique Conway
she/her/hers
mconway@cfsaz.org

Monique is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with a strong focus on nonprofit organizations. She brings deep experience in marketing and communications, specializing in crafting clear, authentic messaging that supports mission-driven work. Prior to joining CFSA, Monique served as Marketing Lead at the Humane Society of Southern Arizona and as Marketing and Events Manager at Ben’s Bells.

Monique holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a minor in Psychology from Northern Arizona University, as well as certifications in Nonprofit Leadership and Human Resource Management. She has been recognized for her leadership and community impact, including being named Leader of the Month by Greater Tucson Leadership, honored as one of 90 Women by Girl Scouts of Southern Arizona, and receiving the Heart of the League Award from Junior League of Tucson. She was also recognized as a 40 Under 40 honoree by the Southern Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and selected as a Bellee by Ben’s Bells Project, recognizing individuals who actively promote kindness in the community.

An active community leader, Monique is a member of the Junior League of Tucson and serves as Secretary of the Amphi Foundation. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling with her husband and son and kayaking with her rescue dog.

Christopher Echeveste
(he/him/his)

As an Eagle Scout, Christoper learned that a united community is capable of acts of kindness and humanity. During his time at Middlebury College, he gained strong critical thinking skills and a desire to play an active role in turning wonderful ideas into a wonderful reality. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in Philosophy, Christopher returned home to Tucson and joined the Center for Healthy Non-profits through the AmeriCorps VISTA program. He is excited to join the team and give back to the community that has already given him so much.
In his free time, Christopher can be found exploring the trails of Tucson on foot or on his bike. If the weather’s not cooperating, then he’s more than happy to relax at home with a good book and his two lovely cats.
Kjersten Erickson
(she/her/hers)
kerickson@cfsaz.org
520-209-2870

A Tucson native, Kjersten attended the University of Arizona where she earned undergraduate degrees in Russian and Slavic Studies and Business Management. Prior to joining CFSA, Kjersten worked in the insurance industry where she focused on negotiation strategies, leadership competencies, and project management. Kjersten is incredibly excited to be part of the Community Foundation Campus Team and make as much of a positive impact as possible.

In her free time, Kjersten loves to hang out with her dog Charlie, travel to all corners of the globe, and explore the vast hiking trails and adventure spots right here in Tucson’s backyard. She also loves spending as much time as possible with friends and family and hiding from the Tucson heat at the movie theater or the nearest swimming pool.

Jenny Flynn
(she/her/hers)

Jenny is a long-time Tucsonan, settling here as her adopted home in 1999 after spending time in six states and four countries. She joined the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona (CFSA) as President and CEO in 2021. At CFSA, she is especially proud of the innovative ways we partner with donors and nonprofits to serve the ever-changing needs of our community. Recent examples include the Nonprofit Solar Project, the Solutions-Focused Community Book Club, and the Local News Initiative of Southern Arizona.

Before joining CFSA, Jenny Flynn served Southern Arizona through various leadership positions at the University of Arizona Foundation for twenty years.  Working with a broad array of national and local partner foundations, she raised more than $100 million for the University. She also collaborated on significant initiatives, including building a talent management program and creating and executing a strategic plan to double fundraising.

Prior to her career as a philanthropy professional, Jenny spent time as a National Park Ranger in Denali National Park and Glacier National Park, taught English as a second language in Spain and Italy, and served as teaching faculty and lecturer at the University of Montana, Sinte Gleska University, and Arizona State University. She currently serves on the board of the MAP Dashboard, Sun Corridor, and the University of Arizona School of Government and Public Policy.

Monica Galaz
(she/her/hers)
mgalaz@cfsaz.org
520-209-2862

A native Tucsonan, Monica has over 19 years of experience working in various administrative roles in the nonprofit sector and is passionate about providing services to the community.

When she is not working, Monica likes to spend time with her husband and four kids. She also has an amazing extended family with whom she spends a lot of time. Between birthdays and holidays, Monica is always out celebrating with those close to her!

James Jefferies
(he/him/his)
jjefferies@cfsaz.org
520-209-1602

James is a veteran nonprofit marketing and social media professional who prizes great storytelling in written and visual form, having had deeply rewarding experiences as a Programming Coordinator at Aspen Film, and as the first Social Media Manager for Visit Tucson (2017-2022). He earned his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Media Arts Producing at The University of Arizona, was a summer intern for Conan O’Brien, and is a two-time winner of Tucson Weekly’s Best of Tucson award for Best Instagram (2020 & 2021). When not working, James enjoys screening films with his partner, honing his own video creation skills, and being the most attentive cat dad he can be.

Danyelle Khmara
she/her/ella
dkhmara@cfsaz.org

Danyelle Khmara is an award-winning bilingual reporter who has covered the diverse Southern Arizona community for the last decade. She covered immigration and the U.S.-Mexico border as a senior reporter at AZPM, and previously at the Arizona Daily Star. She’s also covered education, crime, politics, and local government.

Her reporting has appeared on CNN, the PBS NewsHour, BBC, All Things Considered, Morning Edition, and PRI’s The World. Her work spans print, radio, and documentary film, and she has won statewide and regional awards for her watchdog radio reporting, long-form investigations, and data journalism.

Danyelle is passionate about the power of a free press that reflects the communities it serves. As the Regional Lead for Press Forward Southern Arizona, she is working to support and revitalize local media across the diverse Southern Arizona region.

Danyelle has lived in Tucson for nearly two decades and is a graduate of the University of Arizona School of Journalism.

Cat Kiesel
(she/her/hers)

Cat has called Southern Arizona home since 1977, starting in Bisbee before making her way to Tucson. She stepped into the nonprofit accounting world in 2004 and hasn’t looked back since. At CFSA, she’s known for her deep knowledge of fund accounting, guiding annual audits, and helping staff navigate the details that keep everything running smoothly. She enjoys solving problems, finding smarter ways to work, and bringing a little extra order to the numbers.

Outside the office, Cat is usually exploring her many interests. She loves all things health and wellness, personal growth, gardening, and spending time in nature. She’s also drawn to fine art, puzzles, and crafts. When she’s not tending to plants or a good puzzle, she’s spending time with her partner and her grown child, who was practically raised at CFSA.

 

Jonathan Kleefeld
(he/him/his)

Jonathan joined the CFSA team in August 2022 and is excited to be a part of the Foundation’s committed efforts to support the Southern Arizona community.

Jonathan loves travel, the outdoors, books, music, movies, and delicious food, and could never possibly say enough about how much he adores his wife, kid, and cat.

Evan Kory
(he/him/his)

Evan Kory is an active community organizer in Santa Cruz County working with many nonprofit organizations focused on the arts, culture, and economic development. Together with local artists he founded La Linea Art Studio in downtown Nogales and recently led the effort of opening the new Wittner Museum. This project restored the historic Las Dos Naciones Cigar Factory building in order to create a space that serves as a new art museum, performance venue and community center. Evan is a board member of La Linea Art Studio, Nogales Community Development, Pimeria Alta Historical Society, Santa Cruz Advocates for the Arts and the Santa Cruz Foundation for the Performing Arts. He also formerly served as the Arts Director for the Santa Cruz County School Superintendent’s Office. In addition to Evan’s work with non-profit organizations and local government, the Kory family has owned and operated retail stores, La Cinderella and Kory’s Bridal, in Nogales for 77 years.

Evan is a classical pianist and harpsichordist and has performed throughout the United States and in many countries around the world. He holds a master’s of music in historical performance from The Juilliard School and a doctorate of musical arts in piano performance from Manhattan School of Music.

As an Economic Recovery Corps Fellow, Evan will support local nonprofit organizations in Santa Cruz County through the implementation of a nonprofit accelerator program. The accelerator will help organizations bring collaborative (cross-organizational and cross-community) ideas to life and expand their organizational capacity and services through peer learning, mentoring, and coaching.

Laura Maher Forszt
lmaher@cfsaz.org
520-209-2765

A nonprofit professional with deep roots in Tucson, Laura has more than fifteen years of experience in nonprofit communications, program coordination, and philanthropy. She is continually inspired by the people, places, and work of Southern Arizona.
Laura joined the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona in 2022 and currently serves as the Vice President for Philanthropy. She holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Arizona, an MA from the University of Texas at Austin, and an MFA from Warren Wilson College. The best part of her workday is getting to connect with people and learn about the causes they care about most.
Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her human and canine loved ones, exploring new places through travel, exploring new ideas through podcasts and books, and attempting to find and bake the perfect cookie.
Krista Millay, ThD
Vice President for Community Impact
kmillay@cfsaz.org
520-447-8927

Dr. Krista Millay brings over 20 years of equity-driven leadership across the higher education, nonprofit, and philanthropic sectors. She holds a Doctor of Theology in Philosophy, Theology, and Ethics from Boston University, with a scholarly focus grounded in feminist and liberationist approaches to justice.

A skilled facilitator, strategist, and advocate, Krista’s work has been featured in Ms. Magazine, HuffPost, The Conversation, Women’s eNews, and other national outlets. Before joining CFSA, Krista led local, state, and national initiatives advancing civic leadership, gender equity, and expanded access to higher education.

At CFSA, she leads the Foundation’s grantmaking, community partnerships, and impact initiatives, centering community voice and working to advance systemic change. She is energized by the power of collective care and the pursuit of a more equitable future.

Enedina Miller
(she/her/hers)
emiller@cfsaz.org
520-209-1525

Community and family are strongly linked in Enedina’s heart. Enedina’s work as a Community Impact Manager at CFSA gives her the honor of positively impacting the community in which she was born and raised. She has a big family and loves spending time with her husband, their two kids, and their two dogs. In the moments between work and parenthood, she finds herself reading a book, watching a sappy love movie, or dancing to Bruno Mars! #BLESSED

Portfolio

  • Supporting Organizations
  • Awards
  • Competitive Grants General
  • Agreements
  • Donor Advised Fund Grants

Erin Pixley
(she/her/hers)
epixley@cfsaz.org
520-382-9203

Erin Pixley brings over six years of administrative and finance experience to the CFSA team. Prior to joining CFSA, Erin lived in Nebraska and worked for Nebraska Appleseed, a social justice and advocacy nonprofit. She is excited to get more involved with and see how her work impacts her local community. Erin holds bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration and French from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

In her free time, Erin enjoys spending time with her husband and son, reading, eating delicious food, and playing board games. She also loves traveling back to Wisconsin and Iowa to visit family and showing them all the best of Tucson when they come to visit.

Anne Reid
(she/her/hers)
areid@cfsaz.org
520-382-9204

Anne is originally from Tulsa, OK where she graduated from Oklahoma State University. She then moved to San Francisco, CA to spend the next 28 years there! Anne enjoyed gaining diverse work experience through her 21 years in contract interior design for medical facilities, 4.5 years as a Business Receptionist at the newly reopened California Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park, and as Temp Staffing for University of California San Francisco (UCSF). Anne was also on the Board of Directors for the nonprofit Pacific Musical Society in San Francisco for 23 years.

Anne moved to Tucson in 2015 with her family members. Familiar with Tucson from years of vacationing here in the summertime, Anne enjoys the art, culture, food, scenery, animals, birds, and architecture of Southern Arizona. She spends her personal time taking care of her mother and her aunt, maintaining an online Etsy shop, doing beadwork, crochet, needlepoint, jigsaw puzzles, reading, and playing Warcraft.

Learn more about Anne!

Danielle Raines
(she/her/hers)
draines@cfsaz.org
520-209-2858

Danielle has called Tucson home for most of her life, enjoying the saguaros and the sunshine. Her first professional experience in the nonprofit field was as an AmeriCorps member at a state-wide capacity building and advocacy organization. There, she discovered her passion for the sector and has happily spent the last fifteen years in resource development, fundraising, and donor relations, most recently with the University of Arizona.

She currently serves on the board of Tucson Young Professionals and is dedicated to helping our community develop and grow into the best version of itself. Danielle received her BA in International Studies from Johns Hopkins University and her Master of Public Administration from the University of Arizona. She loves adventuring around and exploring new places with her husband and their pup, Watson.

Susie Schwartz
(she/her/hers)

Susie Schwartz has more than 20 years of experience in nonprofits and philanthropy, with expertise in nonprofit administration, development operations, and prospect identification. She has a Master of Public Administration from the U of A, specializing in public and nonprofit financial management. She previously worked at CFSA in the 2000s in the program department, running competitive grant rounds and processing donor-advised fund distributions, and she returned to CFSA in December 2024.

Susie loves the beach, visiting aquariums, yoga, collecting Fluevogs, and anthropomorphized food.

Emily Walsh
(she/her/hers)
ewalsh@cfsaz.org
520-209-2867

As a nonprofit, foundation, and higher education advancement professional, Emily has nearly 20 years of experience in operations and administration, including technology and business transformation, prospective donor and pipeline development, data analysis, business intelligence, records management, human resources and talent development, marketing and communications strategy, and strategic planning.

Emily also serves the Southern Arizona community as a volunteer leader at the Tucson Festival of Books and is one of the co-founders of the Tucson Tome Gnome, a local literary nonprofit that provides free books through monthly bookish scavenger hunts to inspire literacy, reading, happiness, and kindness throughout Tucson, Arizona.

In her role as Chief Operating Officer, Emily translates the organization’s vision and strategy into integrated operational tactics, strengthening the internal infrastructure needed to support CFSA’s diverse goals and stakeholders.

Sydney Wells
(she/her/hers)
swells@cfsaz.org
520-447-8890

Sydney Wells has over five years of experience in the nonprofit sector, primarily working with organizations committed to enrichment through child education and disability program development. While earning her undergraduate degree in Anthropology and Sociology from the University of Redlands in California, Sydney had the opportunity to study abroad and work with nonprofit organizations internationally. Sydney has since returned to her hometown of Tucson to connect with those that also love Southern Arizona and share a passion for growing its community’s support.

In her free time, Sydney enjoys crafting and DIY projects to add to her home, hiking through Sabino Canyon, and rewatching old movies while snacking on a homemade chocolate treat.

Michael Wiley
(he/him/his)

Michael serves as Technical Support Manager at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona, where he helps keep the organization’s technology running smoothly for staff and visitors at Community Foundation Campus.

Outside of work, Michael enjoys spending time outdoors, whether that means being on the water or exploring the woods. He also appreciates a good travel adventure.

Josh Zollinger
(he/him/his)
jzollinger@cfsaz.org
520-209-2554

Josh has lived in Utah, Washington, and Nevada, but has called Tucson home for over two decades. He and his wife met while they were both working for Bookmans. They’ve been together for 20 years and have two sons and two cats. In his free time, Josh enjoys mountain biking, baking, and seeing live music.

Josh has worked for a variety of local businesses in Southern Arizona, from landscaping and carpentry to marketing and operations, and is thrilled to put his time and energy into supporting an organization that does so much for this community

Photos of CFSA staff are taken by Rachel Marie Photography.