LFC Leaders Fellowship Class of 2025
Alexis (Alex) Soto (he, him)
Nextiva, Implementation Technician
Marcelino Quiñonez's Campaign for City Council District 7, Field Organizer
Alexis (Alex) Soto is a Political Advisor, DACCA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) recipient, and a proud Arizonian. Alexis was brought to the United States at the age of three. He attended various schools in the Roosevelt School District and graduated with honors from South Mountain High School in 2014. He later attended and graduated from St. Mary's University, San Antonio, Texas with a B.A. in History and a minor in International Relations in 2018. During his time at University, he also interned at St. Vincent De Paul where he gained insight into the workings of non-profits and efforts for helping the vulnerable and those in need. He entered politics in 2022 by joining former Arizona State Representative Marcelino Quiñonez's successful campaign to represent LD11 as a State Representative. Alex took the role of Operations and Field organizer. In 2024, Alex joined Marcelino Quiñonez's campaign to represent Phoenix District 7 as a member of the City Council, once again taking the role of Field Organizer. He is a graduate of the LFC Candidate/Campaign six-day training.
Alicia Henry (she, her)
Coconino County Recorder's Office, Senior Recording Manager
I am Alicia Henry. I am the Senior Recording Manager for the Coconino County Recorder's Office. I have worked in various roles and county offices in Arizona since 2011. I love working in government. I am service-oriented and enjoy knowing that I am making a difference in people’s lives. I derive great satisfaction from helping and serving the community. Recently, I was the Vice President of a non-profit here in Flagstaff from September of 2023 to April of 2024. In this role, I was able to strengthen my morals and ethics, understand what drives me, and, sadly, learn just how underserved the LGBTQIA+ community is here in Northern Arizona. I would like to create a non-profit that not only uplifts and supports the LGBTQIA+ community but ensures that everyone feels safe and heard.
Alissa Charley (she, her)
Hopi Credit Association, Executive Director
Alissa Charley is a member of the Hopi Tribe. She is of butterfly/badger clan from the Village of Sichomovi. She currently lives in Keams Canyon, AZ. Alissa is a graduate of Northern Arizona University with a Bachelor's in Business Administration. She also obtained her Associate's Degree in Business Management and Leadership from Northland Pioneer College. She currently serves as the Executive Director for the Hopi Credit Association. Alissa sits on the Keams Canyon Elementary School Board and the Hopi Tewa Women's Coalition to End Abuse Board. She is an alumnus of the Hopi Foundation's Leadership Program. Alissa's work with the Hopi Credit Association supports the economic development of Hopi. She is a proud grandmother of three grandchildren, Matthew, Lorryn, and Jimmy.
Alycia Wright (she, her)
Attorney
Alycia Wright comes from a background in International Human Rights Law. She received a BA in International Relations at Richmond University in London. She obtained a Master’s from the School of Oriental and African Studies in International and Comparative Legal Studies and a J.D. from the University of Minnesota with a concentration in International Human Rights. She is currently enrolled in the Human Rights and Social Justice Master’s Program at Arizona State University, working on collaborating with immigration organizations. She has worked with the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the Gacaca Courts in Rwanda. She currently practices criminal law. She has volunteered in immigration law, worked as a Victim's Attorney, and represented survivors of human trafficking pro bono. For over 10 years, Alycia organized after-school programs for at-risk youth, including tutoring, social skills development, a running program, and life skills. She enjoys working with volunteers and empowering communities to advocate for themselves.
Anne Chege (she, her)
ThermoFisher Scientific, Clinical Research Associate
Originally from Kenya, Anne immigrated to Arizona at the age of 10 and has since made the state her home for over 20 years. She graduated from Oberlin College with degrees in Biochemistry and Anthropology, blending a scientific and cultural perspective into her community work. Following her graduation, Anne worked as a Child Safety Specialist with the Department of Child Safety, where she focused on protecting and empowering vulnerable children. She continues this vital work as a court-appointed special advocate. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Anne played a crucial role in education, research, and vaccine/treatment services, significantly contributing to public health efforts. In her professional capacity as a clinical researcher, Anne remains dedicated to educating her community about the importance of clinical research and its broader impacts. She also provides essential support in health and legal services to her immigrant community, particularly for those affected by domestic and sexual violence. Anne's commitment to community organizing was further enhanced through her involvement in the Arizona Coalition for Change Young Black Organizer Project, where she gained valuable insights into Arizona's legislative landscape.
Armonee Jackson (she, her)
Arizona Coalition for Change, Regional Campaign Manager
Armonee D. Jackson is a social justice advocate and scholar who currently serves the communities of Arizona. Her passion for social justice and advocacy is proven by her extensive background in organizing. Armonee has served as the President of the NAACP Arizona State Conference Youth and College and an appointed member of the NAACP National Youth Works Committee. Armonee has served as a fellow for Black Women Organized for Political Action and so much more. Within all of her organizing and leadership capacities, she has had the pleasure of expanding her leadership skills and social justice knowledge. Prior to her current position with the Coalition for Change, Armonee was the Director of Finance for Arizona List. Additionally, she currently serves as the FIRST Black President of the Young Democrats of Arizona. In 2021 she was featured in Rolling Stone magazine.
Bryan LoBrutto (he, him)
AFSCME International, Political Action Apprentice
I was born and raised in Arizona. I attended Arizona State University as a National Merit Scholar, where I graduated in 2015 with a bachelor's degree in Political Science. In 2020 I returned to ASU and completed my master's degree in Political Psychology. I was hired by AFSCME International's Political Action Department in October 2023, which led me to relocate to Tucson, Arizona, where I work on coordinated campaigns, advocate on behalf of AFSCME members during the Arizona legislative session, and participate in coalitions to advance worker's rights in Arizona, including a coalition that pushed for the first heat safety ordinances in southern Arizona, and was passed this summer. I also am serving as a deputy zone lead for the AFL-CIO's 2024 political program in southern Arizona, working on member-to-member campaigns.
Danae Bell (she, her)
ASU Career Services, Coordinator of Global & National Service Careers
Danae Bell brings extensive experience and academic achievement to her role as the Coordinator of National and Global Service Careers at ASU. She earned a Master's degree in Global Management with a specialization in Digital Audience Strategies from Thunderbird School of Global Management. She also holds two Bachelor of Arts degrees; in Media and Communication Studies and Cultural Anthropology. Throughout her professional rollercoaster, Danae has been consistently committed to service and empowerment. From supporting art non-profits, to assisting in documentary filmmaking, and creating tailored media content for international students, her work reflects a commitment to uplifting vulnerable and culturally diverse populations. Danae's dedication to service extends beyond borders, as evidenced by her service in the Peace Corps, where she volunteered in the Youth in Development sector in Thailand. This experience embedded in her a deep understanding of grassroots development and the transformative power of service-oriented initiatives. Passionate about leveraging her expertise in media and marketing, coupled with her innate desire to serve others, Danae is eager to elevate student awareness of service opportunities and their potential career benefits. She looks forward to engaging with students, fostering a culture of service, and guiding them toward creating a social impact within their career aspirations. She is a Board member of Association Peace Corps Arizona.
Francisco Garcia (he, him)
Maricopa County Department of Public Health, Heat Relief Program Coordinator
Francisco Garcia was born in Michoacán, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States at the age of five, spending much of his life in the shadows as an undocumented youth until DACA was introduced in 2012. Raised in the Garfield Neighborhood in Downtown Phoenix, Francisco’s experiences instilled in him a deep commitment to advocating for marginalized communities and advancing social justice. Currently, as the Maricopa County Heat Relief Program Coordinator, Francisco works alongside local governments, public agencies, and community organizations to support efforts aimed at protecting vulnerable populations from the dangers of extreme heat. He helps provide access to life-saving resources like cooling centers, hydration stations, and heat respite centers. His work is driven by a dedication to health equity and creating climate resilience for those most at risk. Francisco has consistently worked to build a career that bridges community organizing, public health, and education. He has held key positions at organizations such as Mi Familia Vota, SEIU, the Phoenix Elementary School District, and Circle the City, always focusing on empowering communities and driving long-term solutions for equity and opportunity. His work is rooted in his personal experiences and his commitment to creating lasting, systemic change.
Justin Hongeva (he, him)
Hopi Education Endowment Fund, Acting Executive Director
Justin Hongeva (Hopi) is Piikyas’wungwa (Corn Clan) from the Village of Moencopi (Lower) affiliated village of Third Mesa. Justin is a graduate of Arizona State University, earning a BS in American Indian Studies (AIS) in 2011 and an MS in AIS in 2014. During his time as a student and later a staff member at ASU, Justin worked for various support and outreach programs such as the Office of the President for American Indian Initiatives, the Center for Indian Education, and the American Indian Policy Institute. Justin also worked for the University of Arizona’s Indians Into Medicine program (INMED), where he outreached to Native communities to encourage Native students to pursue careers in the health professions. He is currently the Acting Executive Director/Resource Development Manager of the Hopi Education Endowment Fund (HEEF). Justin is charged with establishing relationships with current, and potential donors, grant writing, special event coordination and overall resource related activities. Justin is a proud father and enjoys spending time with his family. He is a Board member of Moencopi Day School/Hopi Jr. Sr. High School.
Karen Martinot (she, her)
Affirm Sexual and Reproductive Health, Director of Programs and Clinical Administration
Karen Martinot, DNP, WHNP, earned a doctorate in nursing practice from Arizona State University and is a board-certified women’s health nurse practitioner. She completed her undergraduate work in biology and nursing in Oregon at Willamette University and Oregon Health and Sciences University, respectively. She also is an internationally board-certified lactation consultant. Her clinical experience includes wellness care, gynecology, preconception care, contraception care, prenatal care, postpartum care, and lactation consulting. Her research experience addresses the intersection of reproductive health and recovery from substance use disorder. She is a regular lecturer in ASU’s Doctor of Nursing Practice program. She focuses on the client experience of care to support people to experience sexual and reproductive wellness. She is committed to developing and overseeing programs and projects that are evidence-based, respectful, and affirming. She is committed to educating new providers and supporting clinics to implement best practices. She lives in Phoenix and serves as the Director of Programs and Clinical Administration for a non-profit organization, Affirm Sexual and Reproductive Health. In this role she leads a team of six highly qualified program managers to distribute Federal and State grant funds to support over 80 clinics across Arizona. Her work is deeply rooted in ethical care and service to low-income, historically marginalized people.
Kari Barber (she, her)
Arizona Small Dog Rescue, Foster Coordinator
As a current ASU student pursuing a Master's degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management with an emphasis in animal welfare and juvenile rehabilitation, Kari has a focus on making a progressive impact on Arizona's most vulnerable youth and homeless pets. With over six years of animal welfare experience and an educational background in juvenile justice and delinquency, Kari is determined to introduce an alternative program that incorporates vulnerable youth and dogs at-risk of being euthanized. She currently works as the foster coordinator for Arizona Small Dog Rescue and serves on the board of directors for the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Phoenix prioritizing her time between membership recruitment and special events. Aside from her dedication to school, work, and the community, Kari enjoys writing and playing music in her band, going to local concerts, and spending time with her two children. As a Wyoming native, she was raised to be a free-spirited trailblazer who enjoys the simpler things in life and to live in the moment.
Karlyn Bradley (they, them)
The High Priestess Consulting Company LLC, Founder and CEO
Karlyn Bradley is a Black, Fat, Queer, Femme, with degrees in Political Science and Gender and Women's Studies from the University of Arizona. Karlyn is a scholar, theorist, community organizer, artist, and educator. They have been able to use and expand their knowledge of Intersectional Feminist Theory to create programming that educates and empowers folks around topics of Race, Gender, Sexual Orientation, and Power Dynamics. Their studies have also shaped and influenced their ability to understand, critique, and analyze policy through a critical race-feminist lens. In 2021 they used their skill set to found The High Priestess Consulting Company LLC (HPCC), which aims to help individuals, communities, and organizations develop their understandings of systemic, political, and social challenges through the use of workshops and trainings. The HPCC specializes in helping people connect with their own power. Just like the high priestess in the Tarot, we remind people of the things that we have always known intuitively and facilitate coming back to ourselves and reconnecting with that power. When they are not doing community work, Karlyn likes to hang out with their friends, eating and cooking a good meal, and watching movies. Karlyn also likes to work on their Podcasts Beneath the Surface. Writing poetry, drawing, living their dream as an Amateur Top Model, and watching Scandal. Karlyn is Southern California born currently residing in Phoenix, Arizona which is the traditional lands of the Akimel O’odham and Hohokam peoples. They are a Board member of the NAACP Political Action Committee.
Kazz Fernandes (he, him)
Voter Choice Arizona, Executive Director
Better Ballot Arizona, Executive Director
Kazz is the Executive Director of Better Ballot Arizona and Voter Choice Arizona, where he leads efforts to protect citizen initiatives against legislative attacks and advocates for election reforms, including Ranked Choice Voting. With extensive experience in political organizing, Kazz is dedicated to advancing democracy and civic engagement. In his previous role as a National RCV Organizer, he launched the California RCV Coalition while managing and growing 11 other grassroots state organizations dedicated to Ranked Choice Voting education and advocacy. Kazz is also the co-founder of BlackNet AZ, a community nonprofit that connects and resources Arizona's Black leaders. Kazz's emphasis on innovative problem-solving and systems thinking is rooted in his education in Biological Systems Engineering from Iowa State University.
Letonya Blakley (she, her)
Phoenix Union High School District, Articulation Specialist
Letonya is an experienced educator passionate about improving middle-to-high school transitions and ensuring student success. Born and raised in Maryvale, Letonya spent 13 years as a dedicated school counselor. A proud alumna of Northern Arizona University, Letonya helps schools develop strategies that foster student well-being and academic achievement, empowering parents and students alike during this critical period of transition.
Markus Ceniceros (he, him)
Men 4 Choice, Arizona State Lead
Markus Ceniceros became Arizona’s youngest elected official at 18 while still in high school. He was the youngest delegate in the Arizona delegation to the 2024 Democratic National Convention. He has worked on several campaigns, serves on local community committees, and hosts the “Pod Save the Youth” podcast. Markus is currently the Arizona state lead for Men4Choice, working to organize and mobilize men to support the abortion ballot initiative. He is also attending his local community college to pursue a degree in public policy. Markus is passionate about empowering young voters and, when not involved in politics, enjoys hiking and taking in Arizona’s breathtaking sunsets. He serves on the Littleton Elementary School Board and serves on the Estrella Village Planning Committee.
Michael Abramson III (he, him)
Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona, Director of Policy & Advocacy
Michael Abramson III is the Director of Policy and Advocacy at the Women's Foundation for the State of Arizona, where he is dedicated to advancing workplace equity, reproductive justice, and maternal health. Previously, as a case manager at UMOM New Day Center, he supported individuals experiencing homelessness through the rapid rehousing program, assisting families with housing searches and providing ongoing case management to promote financial stability. Michael earned his Master’s in Social Work from Northern Arizona University in 2022. During his studies, he interned with prominent policy organizations, including the Arizona Council of Human Service Providers, focusing on behavioral health and child welfare. His professional goal is to bridge social work and public policy to drive systemic equity and effect positive change. He is the volunteer Policy Director for Maricopa County Young Democrats.
Mikah Dyer (he, him)
Political Consultant
Mikah Dyer is a lifelong resident of Peoria, Arizona, and a dedicated advocate for public education and youth empowerment. His journey into civic engagement began with the Peoria Youth Advisory Board and as Youth Liaison for the Peoria City Council, where he worked to improve the lives of over 36,000 youth and forged strong relationships with local officials. As the founder and president of the Ironwood High School Democrats, Mikah led voter registration efforts and championed progressive causes. He later served as Director of Youth Engagement for Legislative District 28 Democrats, mobilizing young people to engage in local politics. Additionally, Mikah worked as a Field Organizer for Arizona Legislative District 2, supporting pro-public education candidates such as Representatives Judy Schwiebert, Stephanie Simacek, and Jeanne Casteen .Currently, Mikah is studying Secondary Education at Arizona State University and in 2024 is running for the Peoria Unified School District Governing Board. He also serves as Vice President of the Young Democrats of Arizona and remains active in political consulting. His unwavering commitment to youth leadership and public education continues to drive his work and advocacy.
Nargish Patwoary (she, her)
ASU M.A. Student, Social Justice and Human Rights (second Master’s)
Born and raised in Arizona, I am a proud daughter of immigrants, health justice activist, community organizer and storytelling enthusiast. Drawing from my own experiences and observing the injustices my community faces in healthcare, I have committed my life to advocating for the right to health. Serving as the Board Vice President for Phoenix Allies for Community Health (PACH), a grassroots social justice organization dedicated to health justice and immigrations rights with the main project being a primary care clinic that provides medical care to undocumented immigrants and migrants, I have the distinct privilege to work alongside not only with my peers from PACH and other brilliant organizations in this struggle, but also with the patients of PACH and community members. As an aspiring physician committed to health justice, it also makes sense to me to practice my activism and community organizing through an accomplice framework. Throughout my time in school, I also became involved in various organizations advocating for accessibility, diversity, inclusion and equity at Arizona State University. More prominently from ASU, as one of the Directors of Pitchfork Pantry, I led the expansion and accessibility of food and nutrition services for students at the West Valley campus. During my undergrad and first master's, I worked on several research projects noted in health inequities. Most notably, I developed my body of scholarship and knowledge on water insecurity within colonials populations. Often, when we discuss water insecurity, we overlook our own neighbors and the systems that have disenfranchised them, denying them basic rights to their water. I've also engaged in research outside of health equity, such as marketing research. This experience was different - and, arguably, unconventional for an aspiring physician - but just as resourceful for I learned about another aspect of storytelling (outside of my love for stories, media and the classes I took about it) in marketing and fundraising as a means to gain support for the causes one believes in. I had the amazing opportunity to learn this from the leaders of TGen (The Translational Genomics Research Institute) and support their Center for Rare Childhood Disorders clinic in impactful way. Now, I am engaged in immigration research at the U.S. Immigration and Citizenship Lab at ASU by Dr. Allan Colbern, while pursuing a second master's degree in Social Justice and Human Rights at ASU. I have decided to go back to school for another master's because I want to better understand how social justice movements come together to fight for/achieve human rights and how health policy shape impact the right to health—or when they don’t. I’m also eager to learn more about how patient stories in the health and medical humanities can be a powerful tool for making the right to health a reality.
Nelly Clotter-Woods
NCW Grants & Associates, PPLC, President & CEO
Rio Salado College, Adjunct Faculty Member
Dr. Nelly Clotter-Woods is a dedicated community advocate and aspiring leader in building community, empowerment, and creating tangible and material changes in underrepresented communities. Her work emphasizes advocacy, building partnerships, and promoting cultural competence within the demographics served by the organizations she supports. She ensures that organizational practices and policies are culturally relevant and supportive of communities of color, identities, and experiences. Nelly spearheaded coalition activities focused on supporting caregivers and their families through various programs and resources. Additionally, she founded NCW Grants & Associates, PLLC, a firm that provides resource development services to behavioral health and educational entities. She holds a Ph.D. in Business, Organizational Behavior, and Leadership from Capella University and an MA in Public Administration from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. She is a Board member of Valley Wise Health Center and serves on the Governor’s Council on Aging.
Nicole Brown (she, her)
Navigating Purpose Consulting & Training Services, Owner
Rio Salado College, Adjunct Faculty Member
Nicole's exceptional career in the insurance and financial sector spanned over twenty years, where she honed her leadership skills and expertise. As the Owner of Navigating Purpose Consulting & Training Services, Nicole is dedicated to helping individuals discover their life's purpose. Her credentials as a certified speaker, trainer, and coach through the John Maxwell Leadership Team reflects her commitment to personal and professional growth. Nicole's passion for lifelong learning is evident in her enthusiasm for reading. She is an Adjunct Faculty member for Rio Salado College and holds a master’s degree in education. Nicole believes that there is always room for personal and intellectual growth. In addition to her professional accomplishments, Nicole is an avid supporter of the Democratic Party. She actively engages in political discussions and advocates for policies that promote equality, social justice, and economic opportunity for all. Her unwavering dedication to her beliefs and her tenacity in fighting for what she believes in make her a formidable advocate. On a personal note, Nicole values her 26-year marriage to her husband Yancy, and treasures the company of their two beloved dogs, Jazzy and Callie. Together, they enjoy traveling and spending quality time with their close-knit family and friends.
Niki Meyari (she, her)
Arizona State University Honors College, Junior Year
Niki Meyari is a junior at the Arizona State University Honors College, majoring in Politics and the Economy. Her first experience with the political world was with the grassroots organization Civic Engagement Beyond Voting, where she learned about the state legislature, got to attend summits and House hearings, and learned how to use digital media to promote political literacy. Then she began to manage the social media platforms of a former state representative and handle their transition to nonpartisan work. Now, she spends her time participating in her school's competitive mock trial team, and trying to begin her own meal swipe donation club on campus to let students donate their extra meal swipes to their food-insecure peers. She's been helping start the club for over a year, partnering up with a national nonprofit, the campus food pantry advisor, and is awaiting approval from her school's food service provider. She hopes to engage in hunger advocacy on her campus to lessen the need for clubs like hers. Niki is also doing an internship with NextGen, hoping to host events focused on the youth vote on her campus. She hopes to practice employment, political, and civil rights law one day.
Ocean Kent (she, her)
Oceans Industries, Founder & CEO
Valley of the Sun United Way, Corporate Relations Manager
Ocean Kent is a dynamic leader and seasoned coach with over 25 years of experience transforming talent within Fortune 500 companies. As a certified DEI practitioner and Life Care coach, she spearheads groundbreaking programs like "A Wave of Inspiration" and "A Wave of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion," driving profound and lasting change. Her DEI expertise spans corporate America, nonprofits, and government agencies, where she passionately champions diversity and inclusion. Ocean’s impact extends beyond her professional achievements. She is deeply committed to volunteering, which she sees as essential for building vibrant, equitable communities. In the political arena, she elevates the voices of young, old, and new voters, shaping a more inclusive future. As a Board Member of Tina Marie and The Bridge Builders Alliance, Ocean supports underserved women aged 50+ through entrepreneurship training, financial education, and mental health support. Her roles with the DEIA Taskforce in the Office of Governor Katie Hobbs, the National Diversity Council, and the Community Action Human Resources Agency (CAHRA) further underscore her dedication to unlocking potential and achieving transformative results. Ocean Kent’s passion for DEI and commitment to making a difference inspire positive change, impacting lives and communities nationwide.
Raoul Zubia (he, him)
Community Advocate
Raoul Zubia is a lifelong resident of Scottsdale, a graduate of Coronado High School, a retired banker, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration. As a devoted community activist and volunteer, he has served as Chair of the Scottsdale Human Services Commission, a former board member at Scottsdale Leadership, and a member of The Charro Foundation and the Parada Del Sol Committee. He served as Vice Chair of the Protect and Preserve Scottsdale Task Force and has been the President of Partners for Paiute, providing funding and resources to community members in need. In 2021, he received Scottsdale Leadership’s Hodges Award, and in 2024, he was inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame.
Sarah Pacheco (she, her)
AZ Regional Economic Development Foundation, Ass’t Economic Development Director
Peach's Pantry, Founder and Volunteer Executive Director
Sarah Pacheco is community leader, chronic volunteer, adventurous hiker, avid bookworm, and southern Arizona advocate who works as a communications and economic development professional with over 12 years of experience working in government, community, and media relations. Her BA is from the University of Arizona in communications and political science and her MPS is from George Washington University. In October 2024 she will be the recipient of the Arizona Association of Economic Development Pro Certification. Professional work experience includes: US Army veteran, PIO at SVUSD, Community Engagement for the Office of Congresswoman Martha McSally, Communications and Media Specialist for Chiricahua Community Health Centers, Marketing Manager at ELLKAY, and currently Assistant Economic Development Director at the Arizona Regional Economic Development Foundation. Her community leadership experience includes previous commissioner of the Arizona Governor’s Commission for Service and Volunteerism, former Sierra Vista City Council Member, Founder and volunteer Executive Director of Peach’s Pantry, a successful nonprofit food program for local school children, Active member of Sierra Vista Rotary Club, Founder and past Chair of Sierra Vista Satellite Rotary Club, and current Salvation Army Corps Advisory Board Member. She has also held various paid and volunteer leadership positions with political campaigns and local political organizations.
Sherri Johnson (she, her)
AADS Office Solutions, Co-Owner
Sherri Johnson's passion for advocacy is rooted in her experiences witnessing the struggles faced by friends and family members with criminal records. This led her to focus on helping individuals reintegrate into society by assisting with record expungements, restoring rights, and appealing fingerprint card denials. Her dedication to these causes highlights her commitment to justice and community support. Sherri is deeply committed to her community and politics. Her involvement in the political arena began in earnest during the 2020 election, and she quickly made a mark by joining the Executive Board of the Legislative District 12 Democrats in 2021 as Second Vice Chair. Currently, Sherri serves as the First Vice Chair of LD12 Democrats, where she actively works to support and elect candidates who align with her values and vision for the future. Her involvement has allowed her to build strong relationships with elected officials across the State Legislature and Chandler, Tempe, and Phoenix city councils. By leveraging these connections, she effectively advocates for policies that align with her goals and the community's needs. Sherri is also co-owner of AADS Office Solutions, a prominent woman-owned business specializing in high-density storage systems and supplies. Her company serves a diverse range of industries both within the United States and internationally.
Stan Arola-Johnson (he, him)
We Are You Campaign (a nonprofit), Founder, CEO and President
Stan Arola-Johnson’s childhood experiences in the inner city of Cleveland -- including waking up one morning to his community’s black-owned businesses having been burnt to the ground --shaped his commitment to social justice. Walking his neighborhood streets with Louis Stokes, Jesse Jackson, and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served to strengthen that commitment in both his professional and volunteer work environments. Working 25 years in telecommunications leadership roles, he advocated for the advancement of Black and LGBTQIA++ individuals, resulting in his serving as AT&T’s first-ever Diversity Specialist of their residential consumer sales and service department. After more than two decades in the telecommunications industry, Stan followed his heart, purpose, and untiring passion for unity and justice with the creation of the nonprofit We Are You Campaign whose mission statement is: “We unite the Black African Diaspora LGBTQIA+ community and share our stories of oneness with all. Through education, advocacy, and shared resources, we aim to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where all members of society can thrive with the Black African Diaspora LGBTQIA+ community being recognized, valued, and championed.” Stan has served on several Boards, including The Greater Phoenix Urban League, Valley of the Sun United Way, and one-n-ten. Stan’s motto is Love, Empower, and Live Authentically. He is expected to receive his master’s degree by 2027.
Trace Fife (they, them)
Human Rights Campaign - Southern Arizona Field Organizer
Trace was born and raised in Arizona. After spending their younger adult years in construction and sales, they switched to volunteer management and politics. They have served as the President of the Young Democrats of Pima County and as the Treasurer for the Young Democrats of Arizona. They have previously worked as Field Director for Laura Conover for County Attorney and currently as the Southern Arizona Field Organizer for the Human Rights Campaign. They have been happily married for four years with two poodle mixes. Trace likes to spend their free time with their family camping, playing board games, and discovering new hobbies. They aspire to continue to expand their service to both their Tucson and LGBTQ+ communities, particularly championing LGBTQ+ rights. They are excited to be in the Fellowship to work towards that end.
Tracey Spellmire (she, her)
Ventura Consulting Group, Owner
Tracey is the founder of Ventura Consulting Group, a firm dedicated to project-based work in progressive legislative advocacy and government relations. Her work reflects a deep commitment to advancing progressive causes through strategic advocacy, coalition building, and policy change. Tracey graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State University with a B.A. in Community Advocacy and Social Policy, where she developed her passion for effecting change through policy. During the 2024 Legislative Session, Tracey interned with Creosote Partners, where she discovered her deep interest in legislative advocacy, coalition building, and advancing impactful policies. This experience solidified her dedication to driving change through policy work and building collaborative efforts to support progressive causes. Tracey is also deeply committed to community service, having volunteered with organizations such as Saint Vincent de Paul, the Ronald McDonald House, UMOM, and Feed My Starving Children. These experiences have strengthened her dedication to social justice, equity, and community empowerment. As a mother of two, Tracey is driven by a desire to set an example for her children by contributing to the betterment of her community. Born and raised in Arizona, she hopes to help build a more inclusive, kind, and equitable future for all Arizonans.