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Join Valley Leadership’s Explore Class 5 as we go behind the scenes to learn how local Buckeye leaders are balancing massive infrastructure innovation with a steadfast commitment to heritage, sustainability, and community connection.
Explore Class 5’s journey through South Phoenix was more than a tour—it was an invitation to lead with heart. From urban gardens to cultural galleries, our cohort experienced firsthand how heritage and storytelling drive community resilience. Discover how local leaders are anchoring the region’s future in equity, adaptability, and a deep pride in place.
Explore Class 5 traveled to Nogales, Arizona and Sonora, gaining firsthand insight into the region’s economic, cultural, and community connections, from the port of entry and produce industry to public art, entrepreneurship, and migration. The experience highlighted the deep interdependence of border communities and challenged participants to think more holistically about Arizona’s future.
The Explore Class 5 trip to Yuma and San Luis was an immersive two-day experience engaging with local leaders across agriculture, education, law enforcement, and the arts along the U.S.-Mexico border. Through visits to institutions like Arizona Western College and conversations with entrepreneurs and public servants, the journey brought the group’s core themes of equity, adaptability, and interconnectedness to life.
Explore Class 5 kicked off with Foundations Day, bringing participants together to connect, learn, and begin exploring the communities and issues shaping Arizona’s future. From Arizona history and water policy to team-building and leadership insights, the day set the stage for a statewide journey grounded in Valley Leadership’s Principles of Doing.
In honor of Women’s History Month, we sit down with Stephanie Bermudez, founder of Startup Unidos, to explore how she’s building cross-border innovation ecosystems and expanding opportunity for women entrepreneurs. Hear how her leadership journey is shaping what’s possible along the borderlands.
As Explore enters its fifth year, a new cohort of leaders begins a statewide journey rooted in listening, connection, and community learning. Meet Explore Class 5 and the communities shaping their experience. Learn more about the newest cohort of leaders and this year’s program.
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a look at Change Labs’s Pitch Your Hustle competition and the Native entrepreneurs driving impact across Arizona. Learn more about how our Explore alumni were able to support this important community event.
Watch our conversation with Sam Gomez, Executive Director of The Sagrado Galleria, as part of VL’s National Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight. Sam shares the inspiration behind The Sagrado, the only community arts organization and gallery in South Phoenix, and how art and design serve as tools for cultural identity, equity, and community resilience.
Strong communities don’t just happen, they’re built by leaders who are willing to step up, work together, and drive meaningful change. Participating in a leadership program is more than a professional development opportunity; it’s a pathway to making a lasting difference in Arizona. Learn how you can take action today.
Leslie Motter and Terry Goddard have been named the 76th Arizona Leaders of the Year, formerly known as Man & Woman of the Year. Honored for their dedication to tackling Arizona’s most pressing challenges, deep record of community engagement, and embodiment of Valley Leadership’s Principles of Doing, Motter and Goddard exemplify the spirit of servant leadership driving positive change across the state.
We’re incredibly excited to announce our largest leadership cohort to date. This milestone year for the program reflects Valley Leadership’s commitment to expanding access to leadership development opportunities for individuals across the state who are ready to take action on Arizona’s most pressing issues. Learn more about our newest cohort.
