Profiles

Jennifer Mellor currently serves as the Chief Innovation Officer for the Greater Phoenix Chamber. In this role, Jennifer oversees the Greater Phoenix Chamber Foundation, which convenes and catalyzes business, education, and community to enhance college and career readiness, develop a stronger workforce, and build healthier communities throughout Arizona.

Elena Redi Steinbeiss is the Co-Director of Foster360 and a certified Trauma and Resiliency Coach. With over 11 years of experience, Elena is passionate about helping aged-out foster children overcome trauma and avoid homelessness. Her commitment to creating lasting change is evident in her work and advocacy. To learn more, visit www.foster360.org

Sommer Knight is the Co-Director of Foster360 and a certified Trauma and Resiliency Coach. With over 15 years of experience, Sommer is dedicated to creating lasting change for aged-out foster children. Her work focuses on helping them break generational cycles of trauma and homelessness, ensuring they have the support and resources needed to thrive. To…

Diane McMahan is a current accounting & finance consultant with extensive fire service and local government experience. She serves as the 2nd Vice Chair of the Mohave County Democratic Central Committee. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration—Accounting and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration.

Paul Penzone, VP & Chief Community Relations Officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona shares his experience with mental health while he served as Maricopa County Sheriff. He also dives into his new role at AZ Blue and how he plans to continue to positively impact Arizona’s communities in a new capacity.

Lauren Bly expects to graduate in December 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a minor in political science. Bly has interned at AZTV Channel 7 and ABC15 Arizona. She works as a production assistant at Arizona PBS and she wants to be a broadcast reporter/MMJ.

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting.

Hayden Cilley expects to graduate in December 2024 with a master’s degree in mass communication. Cilley covered the Phoenix Mercury in 2022 for The Next Hoops and is writing and podcasting about the Mercury for PHNX Sports.