About Us | Phoenix Sister Cities

Mission, Vision, Values

At the heart of all Sister City programs is an agreement, signed by the mayors of each Sister City, confirming the commitment of each community to the Sister City program. Sister Cities agree to send and receive delegations of various types, including political and business leaders, arts and cultural representatives, educators, and technical experts because these exchanges promote cross-cultural understanding, municipal and technical cooperation, and business opportunities. Each Sister City is supported by a committee of volunteers who are committed to the goals and objectives of the program.

Mission

Phoenix Sister Cities fosters relationships between the people of Phoenix and our Sister Cities around the world to promote friendship, peace and prosperity.

Vision

The world at peace.

Values

People: Embracing the humanity, dignity, and uniqueness of individuals and communities underscores people as the most precious resource.

Integrity: Maintaining the highest standards of professional and ethical behavior, transparency, cultural sensitivity, and respect to stakeholders is paramount.

Sharing and Caring: Sharing our knowledge and resources and caring for others yield immeasurable gains for all.

Inclusion and Hospitality: Welcoming others into our community is a privilege and an honor. The wisdom of others enriches us all.

Education: Teaching and learning; inquiry and exploration facilitate global citizenship and a shared appreciation of the world.

Art and Culture: Offering a window to the soul of others, art and culture are the universal language of friendship and hope.

Office of Protocol

In addition to fulfilling its stated mission, Phoenix Sister Cities, through a public-private partnership, serves the city of Phoenix as the official Office of Protocol. In this capacity, it is the city’s primary contact for individuals and delegations from around the world who represent trade, government, and cultural organizations. For information on the City of Phoenix, please click here.

Our Programs are Prized

“When you are sitting in Phoenix and thinking of doing business in Ireland, you don’t have the knowledge of how to get it done. But the Ennis connection opened up golf exchanges to us. … Any time you rely on a Phoenix Sister City relationship, doors open wider than anything you can imagine.” – Rob McGarey, President & CEO Southwest Retail Group, Inc. (Member of the Phoenix Thunderbirds, which puts on the Phoenix Open)

Sister Cities International has recognized Phoenix Sister Cities with numerous awards for Best Overall Program in the nation. Phoenix Sister Cities views multi faceted exchanges/activities as essential to the lifeblood of the program. In the ongoing process of strengthening Sister City partnerships, Phoenix Sister Cities ensures that at least one exchange/activity occurs throughout the program year with every one of its sister city relationships. We take a proactive approach to the development of projects through a concentrated effort to initiate and engage our Sister City partners in a dialogue on new and innovative exchanges/activities.

Phoenix Sister Cities offers youth the opportunity to broaden their knowledge of multiple cultures by participating in the many Youth and Education programs we offer (e.g., Youth Ambassador Exchange Program and the International Young Artist Competition).

The program also offers a valuable hands-on experience that will help form bridges of international understanding and goodwill. In an effort to increase community outreach and participation, some events have been selected that have a mass appeal and transcend cultures. Therefore, they have the ability to attract participants that may not necessarily have a specific sister city or cultural interest (e.g., Chinese Week, French Week, Evening in Prague, Global Links Business Outlook Luncheon, and Girl’s Day). Through this strategy, Phoenix Sister Cities has been able to increase and diversify its membership and volunteer base as well as involve the public in the exchanges/activities that we develop and coordinate.

Board of Directors

Bob Albert

Calgary Committee Chair

Bob Albert

Calgary Committee Chair

Bob graduated the University of Alberta (Canada) with a Bachelor of Commerce degree in 1978. Prior to immigrating to Phoenix in 1985, he joined Xerox Canada for 4 years. He then ran his own construction company prior to joining ComputerLand of Edmonton at the outset of the personal computer era.

Shortly after transferring to ComputerLand of Phoenix, he partnered to found Computer Solutions/Valcom Southwest, growing that computer sales organization to 4 locations in Tempe, Tucson, Las Vegas and Phoenix.

He was recruited by MicroAge Computer Centers where he spent a 14-year career as a director, leading franchise development, and VP of sales for the West.

Bob joined US Web (the first national web development firm) in Santa Clara, CA in 1996. He led their franchise development efforts in the western US and Canada, culminating with a successful IPO, when he returned to Tempe and MicroAge HQ.

Bob joined Nextel Communications/Sprint in 2001, spending the next 13 years leading their local wireless data sales team in Arizona and New Mexico, before moving into account management of their wireless data sales at the Fortune 300 account level across the US.

In 2014, Bob created Right On Target Clay Guides of AZ (shotgun sports provider) and Southwest Mobile Apps, which he currently operates today.

Bob enjoys the outdoors, saddle horses, and coaching youth in shotgun sports.

Janine Bobin

Grenoble Committee Chair

Janine Bobin

Grenoble Committee Chair

Presently, Janine Bobin is President and Executive Director of Alliance Française of Greater Phoenix. She moved to Scottsdale with her husband 14 years ago and has 4 daughters.

During the 17 years she lived in Los Angeles, she was involved in the community as President of Los Angeles Accueil, President of Alliance Française of LA and Chair of the Los Angeles Philharmonic International Fundraising Committee.

Janine has been awarded by the French government and is the recipient of the “Order of la Médaille du Mérite” and “Order of Les Palmes Académiques”.

Sandy Casement

Commission Member

Sandy Casement

Commission Member

Sandy Pho Casement is a Government Relations Advisor at Freeport-McMoRan where she manages Freeport’s geopolitical risk management function. She also provides analysis on federal and international policies impacting the mining industry. Prior to joining Freeport, Sandy spent 8 years as a senior policy analyst focused on China and US policy in Asia. Her research and analysis has been featured in NPR, CNN, The National Interest, and Real Clear World. Following her time in DC, Sandy rode out the pandemic at the Salt Lake City Mayor’s office as a Special Assistant to the Chief of Staff. She ended her time in SLC as a Senior Innovation Consultant responsible for developing and executing strategies that foster innovation and service process improvements. Sandy is a proud product of Arizona’s public school system and currently lives in Phoenix where she was born and raised.

Sally Chen

Commission Member

Sally Chen

Commission Member

Sally Chen currently serves as vice president at PWE Group, an engineering consulting and construction management company. She is also an attorney practicing immigration law at S L Chen & Associates PLC, serving as a consultant to entrepreneurs and businesses abroad who wish to establish or expand their business in the U.S. She has served as the managing attorney at a recognized business immigration law firm in Denver, Colorado and later headed the immigration law practice of a business law firm in Southern California. In addition, she has extensive experiences in nonimmigrant and immigrant visa processing with a focus on temporary work visas, extraordinary ability foreign nationals, executive and manager transferees and investor visas. She has successfully represented a wide range of business clients in various fields including Hi‐Tech, Engineering, Consulting, Accounting, Finance, Banking, Insurance, Medical, Biotechnology, Legal, Architecture, Construction, Entertainment, Import and Export,
and Higher Education Institutions.

Sally received a Master of Law degree in transnational business practice from McGeorge School of Law at the University of the Pacific, and a Bachelor of Law degree from the National Taiwan University in Taipei, Taiwan. Prior to establishing her practice in the U.S., she has worked as a trial attorney in Taiwan in a wide variety of areas such as civil, real estate, intellectual property, employment, criminal, and labor law matters.

Sally has been serving on the Board of Chinese Linguistic School of Phoenix since 2014 as Bylaw Director, Chairwoman, and Advisor. She is an attorney licensed in both the U.S. and Taiwan, and is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association. She has been living with her family in the Phoenix area since 2006.

Wen Chyi Chiu

Taipei Committee Chair | Committee Chairs Representative to the Executive Committee

Wen Chyi Chiu

Taipei Committee Chair | Committee Chairs Representative to the Executive Committee

Wen Chyi Chiu graduated from Arizona State University, majored in Journalism and Communications. Wen Chyi Chiu’s specialties are Global Relations, Public Relations and Media Relations. As Chairwoman for Taipei Sister Cities, Taipei Sister Cities received three years in a roll, the Best Sister Cities titles in 2009-2012. Wen Chyi Chiu has been devoting, volunteering, contributing, and serving American, Asian, Taiwanese, and Chinese Communities and Phoenix Sister Cities for over 25 years to promote education, STEM/STEAM, sister schools, police and fire exchanges, youth ambassadors, global friendship, arts, culture, sports, business, solar energy, and high technology. She is the Founding Executive Board Member and President for Global Federation of Chinese Business Woman Arizona Chapter, and she is current Principal of Arizona Chinese Mandarin and Culture Academy, and Executive Director of Taipei Culture Summer Camp. Wen Chyi Chiu received many awards including the Recipient of Southern California and Arizona Outstanding Young Leader Award, US Congress Congressional Recognition for Community Service, Arizona Governor Award for Community Contributions, Outstanding Citizenship Award, Volunteer Medal International Award of Circle of Distinguish Volunteer Global Citizenship Award from Phoenix Sister Cities International, and Phoenix Sister Cities Taipei Sister Cities Volunteer of the Year, among other recognitions.

Misty Cisneros-Contreras

Commission Member

Misty Cisneros-Contreras

Commission Member

Misty Cisneros-Contreras is the Customer Service Manager at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport. She enjoys working with a team to provide the best guest experience for all passengers and maintaining the reputation of being America’s Friendliest Airport. Misty recently celebrated 10 years with the City of Phoenix. During her tenure she has worked in the Street Transportation Department and the International Relations Office with Phoenix Sister Cities. She is a mother of two young daughters, Dolcé (5) and Luna (2) that keep her and her husband, Aaron, very busy. Misty is an Arizona sports enthusiast, enjoys thrifting and being a very involved mother in all of her daughter’s activities.

Christopher Curtin

Commission Member

Christopher Curtin

Commission Member

Oscar De las salas

Commission Member

Oscar De las salas

Commission Member

A native of Barranquilla, Colombia, Oscar De las salas is an award-winning international architectural designer with more than two decades of experience with municipal and community development projects. Since 2017, he has served as Design Manager, Business Development lead and is currently a Client Relationships Manger in the Gensler Phoenix office, reporting to the Southwest Region.

Oscar completed his Master’s in Architecture and Interior Architecture by the University of Salamanca in 1998 and moved directly to Arizona to study the works of Frank Lloyd Wright to write his thesis project about “American Modernism through the eye of Frank Lloyd Wright”. His European tenure allowed him to pursue internships an Interior Architect and work in the EU within several European countries, He became the Visual Design Manager at-large for the prestigious Italian interior design firm: Cassina.

Oscar’s early career led him to serve as Project Architect, and as the Interior Finishes specification lead and field coordination superintendent for four U.S. Embassies around the world: Bolivia, Colombia, Singapore, and Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. As a curious note, Oscar held US Government Clearance Type 3 (Top Secret) while working side by side with the Federal Building Office team in Washington D.C., all via Facsimile and during the early days of email correspondence. Ask him about the protocol to send secured architectural details of the ambassador’s office or the U.S. Marine’s headquarters information back then.

Oscar’s work with the community in Arizona has developed into a variety of volunteering efforts with local charities, He was recognized for his contribution to the community by the Arizona House of Representatives and in 2019, and June 29, his birthday, was declared “Oscar Day” by City of Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego, and last month of August 2022, a recognition by the Arizona State Legislature during the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebrations for his contributions to the state of Arizona.

Oscar has served for 14 years as a member of the board of Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), he is a board member with Phoenix Art Museum, Friends of Phoenix Public Art, ArtLink, Southwest Shakespeare, Vice-Chair of the Urban Land Institute Arizona Chapter, Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion, committee, and global ambassador for PROCOLOMBIA, a government agency of the Executive Branch of the Government of Colombia in charge of promoting Colombian non-traditional exports, international tourism and foreign investment. Oscar is currently a Commissioner for the Phoenix Sisters Cities and chair of the Colombia commission in search of a sisterhood with a city in his native Colombia

Oscar’s community and media involvement locally, making him a familiar face when it comes to the world of design and style.

Jennifer Doan-Richardson

Commission Member

Jennifer Doan-Richardson

Commission Member

Jennifer Doan produces the 8-10 am hours of Fox 10 Arizona Morning. She has been at FOX 10 since December 1997. Prior to working in the Phoenix market, Jennifer worked in Oklahoma City.

Jennifer is a proud Sooner, growing up in Duncan, Oklahoma and graduating Magna Cum Laude with a degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Oklahoma in 1997.

Following graduation, Jennifer was awarded a paid internship focusing on News Management through The Radio and Television News Director Foundation and placed at KPHO Channel 5 in Phoenix.

She took a year off from July 1998 to June 1999 to travel and perform with Up With People. The international cast of 148 young adults from 23 different countries toured the world performing a musical, living with host families, sharing different cultures and performing community service.

After Up With People, Jennifer returned to Phoenix and returned to Fox 10.

In addition to her work on the Phoenix Sister Cities Commission, Jennifer currently serves on the Board of Governors for the National Association of Television Arts Sciences - Rocky Mountain Southwest Region. She is a former Second Vice President for NATAS and Chairman/Producer of the regional Emmy Awards. Jennifer is also the Publicity Chair, serves on the board of VNSA, a Phoenix non-profit that collects used books and holds one sale a year to benefit Arizona non-profits.

In her free time, Jennifer enjoys photography and traveling.

Sam Gatton

Commission Member

Sam Gatton

Commission Member

Born and raised in the heart of farmland in Ohio. Moved to Arizona in 1975 and have been a resident ever since.

Began career in beverage industry beginning with Pepsi Cola for 18 years. Then transitioned to the water business where I have been a manager for the next 20 plus years.

In early 2000 had an opportunity to serve on Surface Transportation Advisory Committee representing District 5 and Councilmen Claude Mattox. Also helped to support Maryvale Revitalization especially with water donations. Also previously served on school board in Tempe.

Very excited to be a part of the Sister Cities team and look forward to all of the opportunities that await.

Emilio Gaynor

Board Member

Emilio Gaynor

Board Member

Emilio Gaynor serves as president of the CPLC Global Business LLC and as Director of International Development for Chicanos Por La Causa, Inc. (CPLC) where he heads international relations and development efforts. In this role, Emilio has accomplished great success in connecting Mexican businesses with resources to help make them successful in Arizona resulting in millions of dollars in foreign direct investment. He has also led high level business and government missions to Mexico connecting trade, investment, business and philanthropic partners as well as done the reverse, bringing the same types of groups to the United States. Serving the social sector, he has launched efforts of collaboration between non-profit organizations and foundations on both sides of the border. Emilio regularly contributes to Spanish publications in Sonora and Arizona including La Cueva de Los D-backs infield monthly magazine, Frontera Norte and an OpEd piece he prepared, featuring the Hermosillo Sister City relationship, was published in the Arizona Republic/Phoenix Business Journal. He has executed opportunities for the immigrant community to connect with their federal elected officials and support services. He has extensive experience in international relations and development having headed delegations and business efforts in Mexico and Latin America for over 20 years. Emilio worked in the executive branch for two governors as representative of the State of Arizona in Sonora, Mexico and as Executive Director of the Arizona Mexico Commission in the Office of the Governor. He also served as development director for Latin America for an aerospace design firm and a communications services company selling and providing services in Mexico and South America.

Emilio has created programs for non-profits and has managed large-scale public information and outreach programs projects such as Federal Aviation Administration housing relocation program for the city of Phoenix and the Neighborhood Stabilization Program in Maricopa County. He headed government and community relations for Arizona’s largest Hispanic advertising and promotions firm. Emilio served as general manager for Delaware North, one of the largest hospitality companies in the world. He also represented an international mining distribution and service venture that focused on Chile, Peru, and Mexico.

Emilio’s community and civic contributions include serving as Chair of the PSC Business Relations Committee, Chair of the Arizona Diamondbacks Los D-backs Ambassador Council and is a former member and served as Chair of the Phoenix Board of Adjustment. HE also served as Chair of the Phoenix Sister Cities Hermosillo Committee, and has served on the board of the Border Health Foundation and World Affairs Council and the Easter Seals. Emilio was born I Mexico City, has worked in Paraguay, Bolivia, Dominican Republic and Chile in addition to having lived in Mexico. Emilio has the fortune of being married to Monica, who is originally from Hermosillo, and has two children, Samantha born in Hermosillo and Arturo born in Phoenix.

Melissa Goitia

Board Chair | Youth & Education Committee Chair

Melissa Goitia

Board Chair | Youth & Education Committee Chair

Melissa Goitia is Director of University Ceremonies and Protocol Officer at Arizona State University and co-founder of the North American Association of Commencement Officers (NAACO).

A native of Tempe, Arizona and a long-time employee of ASU, Melissa has held positions as an academic advisor, program coordinator, development officer and event planner.

In 1999 Melissa and Carol Switzer (1944-2011), co-founded NAACO, a professional association for commencement and graduation professionals from across the United States and Canada. Melissa served as the NAACO Charter President, coordinator of the inaugural conference in 2000 and chair for the 2007 conference.

Melissa holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Public Relations from the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communications at Arizona State University, Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Northern Arizona University and is a certified Protocol Officer through the Protocol School of Washington®.

Adam Hawkins

Commission Member

Adam Hawkins

Commission Member

Jacob Heinrich

Commission Member

Jacob Heinrich

Commission Member

Jacob Heinrich is an Assurance Senior Manager with PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) in its Southwest market. He began his career in Detroit, MI followed by a three-year role in the Denver, CO and is currently based in Phoenix. PwC is a professional services firm delivering assurance, tax and consulting services for its clients. It operates as a network of firms across 157 countries with over 272,000 employees.

Jacob currently serves clients within the Technology, Media and Entertainment sector providing financial statement audit services. He has expertise in SEC Reporting, Technical & Financial Accounting, Project Management, and Financial Planning, Analysis & Controls. Additionally, Jacob fosters an environment of inclusiveness along with delivering client value with a focus on empathy. Having served multinational clients and working with audit firms across the world, Jacob has developed a value of cultural immersion and international understanding.

Jacob is a Certified Public Accountant, a member of Arizona Society of CPAs, Michigan Association of CPAs, and the American Institute of CPAs. He obtained his B.A. from Albion College (MI).

Ana Juarez

Commission Member | Hermosillo Committee Chair

Ana Juarez

Commission Member | Hermosillo Committee Chair

Ana Juarez is the esteemed President and CEO of Ana Juarez Global Business Development Consulting Group, a renowned firm specializing in driving business growth and performance improvement. With a remarkable career trajectory that began at the age of 14 when she immigrated from Sonora, Mexico, Ana has consistently demonstrated her exceptional leadership abilities and deep understanding of business dynamics.

Previously holding the position of Vice President for a prominent 26-unit McDonald's franchise ownership group, Ana's expertise spans a wide range of critical areas, including conflict resolution, hiring, training, retention, accountability, leadership, communication skills, and public relations. Fluent in both English and Spanish, Ana provides consulting services to companies seeking to optimize their performance and expand their global reach.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ana is also the esteemed founder of the Power of Gratitude Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to assisting children in Sonora, Mexico. Her commitment to philanthropy and community development is further exemplified by her role as a commissioner with the Phoenix Sister Cities program, where she actively fosters economic, cultural, and technical exchanges between US cities, counties, and corresponding communities worldwide.

Additionally, Ana has served as the President of two influential Arizona Business Alliances, further solidifying her dedication to the local business community. Ana's exceptional achievements have garnered her numerous accolades, including the prestigious National Ray Kroc Award and recognition as one of the AZ Hispanic Chamber of Commerce's 40 under 40 Young Business Leaders. She also serves as a Board Member Director of the Mesa Police Foundation and is a valued member of esteemed organizations such as the Women of Influence Mask Foundation.

With Ana Juarez at the helm, Ana Juarez Global Business Development Consulting Group continues to provide unparalleled expertise and strategic guidance to businesses worldwide. Through her unwavering commitment to excellence and her passion for making a positive impact, Ana empowers organizations and C-executive leaders to thrive and achieve long-term success in the ever-evolving global marketplace.

Irena Juras

Prague Committee Chair

Irena Juras

Prague Committee Chair

Joe Kiernan

Ennis Committee Chair

Joe Kiernan

Ennis Committee Chair

Louie Lujan

Commission Member

Louie Lujan

Commission Member

Over the course of his more than 18 year career in government, Mr. Lujan has earned the reputation of being a problem solver and consensus builder. He specializes in navigating clients through the process of doing business with government and serves as the ambassador between our clients and government agencies. With experience on the local, state, and federal level, Mr. Lujan knows how government works. He assists clients with developing a clear and simple strategy for navigating through government agencies. Knowing that relationships are essential, he often leverages his contacts in government on behalf of our clients. Gaining access to key decision makers is an essential part of his work with our clients. Mr. Lujan is a registered lobbyist in Phoenix and Los Angeles.

His elected and appointed offices have included Mayor of the City of La Puente, Director of the Southern California Air Quality Management District, President of the La Puente Water District, and Vice President of the California League of Cities City Selection Committee. His private sector experience includes government relations and lobbying positions within various industries in real estate, textiles, recycling, communications, and education.

Mr. Lujan graduated from the University of Southern California (USC) with a B.A.in Political Science and a Master’s in Public Administration (MPA). He also holds a Master’s in Secondary Education (M.Ed.) from Loyola Marymount University (LMU).

Ralph Marchetta

Catania Committee Chair

Ralph Marchetta

Catania Committee Chair

Ralph Marchetta was promoted to the position of General Manager, Sr. Vice President of Sports and Entertainment Services in August, 2007. As General Manager, Ralph oversees all operations of the US Airways Center. In addition to servicing professional sports teams that include the Phoenix Suns, Phoenix Mercury, and the Arizona Rattlers, Ralph books all events at US Airways Center including working with the NBA, WNBA, and AFL to schedule all regular season and pre season games. Ralph has booked hundreds of concerts including Barbra Streisand, U2, Paul McCartney, Rolling Stones, Vicente Fernandez, Juan Gabriel, Andrea Bocelli and many others. Ralph has extensive relationships with Feld Entertainment (Disney on Ice and Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus), World Wrestling Entertainment and many other family show and concert promoters. Ralph has been at US Airways Center since prior to the venue’s opening in 1992.

In managing US Airways Center as a key asset to the community, Ralph works with the leadership of the City of Phoenix, Phoenix City Council and Downtown Phoenix Partnership. In addition, Ralph serves as a board member of the Phoenix Police Department Reserve Foundation, the Phoenix Sister Cities and the Boys and Girls Club.

Ralph graduated from Arizona State University.

Bruce Meyerson

Commission Member Board Chair Elect

Bruce Meyerson

Commission Member Board Chair Elect

Bruce E. Meyerson is a mediator, arbitrator, and trainer in Phoenix, Arizona. He is a graduate of the Georgetown University Law Center (1972) where he was an Editor of the Law Journal. He received his undergraduate degree from Arizona State University. Mr. Meyerson was the founder and first Executive Director of the Arizona Center for Law in the Public Interest. He served on the Arizona Court of Appeals for almost five years where he heard over 1000 appeals. He served as General Counsel of Arizona State University from 1986 to 1990. From 1990 through 2000, Mr. Meyerson practiced commercial and employment litigation in Phoenix. Since 2000, his practice has focused on conflict resolution. He is a Past Chair of the ABA Section of Dispute Resolution and the State Bar of Arizona ADR Section. He is an adjunct professor at the Arizona State University College of Law teaching courses in all aspects of dispute resolution, including Mediation and Arbitration. He is a member of the National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals, the International Academy of Mediators, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators and the College of Commercial Arbitrators. He serves as a board member of the American Arbitration Association Foundation. He is the Chair of the City of Phoenix Civil Service Board and a member of the City of Phoenix Police and Fire Pension Board.

Francesca Miller

Board Member Executive Committee Member-At-Large

Francesca Miller

Board Member Executive Committee Member-At-Large

Francesca Miller is Vice President, Business Development for Multistudio and a dedicated citizen of Arizona. She has called Arizona home twice. The first time was from 2000 to 2006 and after residing in New York for ten years, Francesca returned to Arizona in 2016, eager to give back to the community.

From 2000 to 2006, Francesca was a member of several boards and commissions including the City of Phoenix Youth and Education Commission, Phoenix Advisory Board for the Steele Children's Research Center and Phoenix Body Positive (Southwest Center for HIV/AIDS). She traveled in 2004 as a member of the Phoenix Sister Cities Commission on the inaugural trip to Ramat Gan, Israel.

New York provided Francesca with the opportunity to sit on the Board of Overseers for the Katonah Museum of Art and for five years, she was the driving force behind the museum’s annual fundraising gala. Francesca was also a member of the host committee for the Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Research Race 4 A Cure from 2014 to 2016.

While residing in New York, Francesca was Director of Operations for a global hedge fund, Chief of Staff for an investment professional and established a full-service marketing and business development firm.

Upon moving back to Arizona in 2016, Francesca rejoined the Phoenix Sister Cities Commission and currently participates on committees including: Mayor’s International Committee, New Sister City Committee, Executive Committee, Ramat Gan Committee and chairs the Nominating Committee.

Francesca is on the Advisory Board of the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art and is a Golden PANDA (People Acting Now Discover Answers) for the Steele Children’s Research Center.

Jessica Moran

Commission Member

Jessica Moran

Commission Member

Jessica Moran is a skilled public relations leader and corporate communications specialist whose mission is to influence hearts and minds for positive change.

For close to two decades as in-house public relations or external agency counsel, Jessica has worked with a range of clients/customers in the health, healthcare and medical industries to tell their stories in top-tier and trade media, manage reputational issues, and increase executive visibility and thought leadership.

Currently, Jessica is a senior external affairs communicator (VP) for W. L. Gore & Associates, a global materials science company commonly known for its popular GORE-TEX waterproof fabrics. She leads issue/crisis communications and media relations for the company’s medical manufacturing operations.

Jessica joined Gore four years ago from Edelman, the top public relations agency, where she served as a senior health media strategist in the agency’s healthcare practice. She specialized in pharma, medical technology, life sciences and consumer/lifestyle health with clients such as Medtronic, McKinsey Health, Astellas Pharma, Alzheimer’s Association, and the American Heart Association.

As in-house PR counsel, Jessica spent seven years with YMCA of the USA as a public relations manager/specialist, where she led national media outreach for health and wellness, nutrition and education initiatives, as well as executive visibility. She also managed an anti-hunger initiative with the Walmart Foundation for five consecutive years, generating national media to lift local recruitment of participants.

Early in her career, Jessica, a Chicago native, worked as a reporter and editor for the Chicago Crusader and as a freelance journalist for the Chicago Defender.

Passionate about community and industry engagement, Jessica is a member of industry organizations including the Public Relations Society of America and ColorComm.

Jessica holds an M.A. in Journalism from Columbia College Chicago and a B.A. in English from Chicago State University. She lives in Phoenix with her husband Ramon and their sons.

Karla Moran

Commission Member

Karla Moran

Commission Member

Karla Moran is the Manager of Economic Development for Salt River Project (SRP). She is responsible for leading the Economic Development team with a focus on attracting and expanding business and industry within SRP’s service territory; providing site-specific electrical infrastructure identification and cost analysis; and working collaboratively alongside state, regional and municipal partners to identify targeted company attraction, expansion and retention efforts. The team works towards building a healthy economy that advances well-planned growth throughout the Valley of the Sun.

Karla has worked in economic development for more than 15 years, including roles at the Arizona Department of Commerce, the Arizona Commerce Authority and the Town of Gilbert. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Arizona State University and is designated as an Arizona Economic Development Professional through the Arizona Association for Economic Development (AAED). Karla serves on the boards of CoreNet Global’s Arizona Chapter, AAED, the Real Estate Investment Advisory Council, Phoenix Sister Cities, and the Arizona Workforce Council. She is also a Certified Ambassador for the Greater Phoenix Economic Council.

Karl Obergh

Commission Member

Karl Obergh

Commission Member

Amilyn Pierce

Commission Member

Amilyn Pierce

Commission Member

Amilyn Pierce is the D-backs’ Vice President, Government Affairs. She joined the organization in October 2018 following nearly 20 years of experience in legislative affairs, policy making, political strategy and campaign management.

Prior to joining the D-backs, Pierce served as Senior Political Director for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry following a two-year stint as Deputy Chief of Staff for Speaker J.D. Mesnard at the Arizona House of Representatives. In the Arizona Legislature, Pierce managed the operations of the House, advised the Speaker on policy matters, and played an integral role in advancing the caucus agenda. Her experience spans three states and started in Oregon, where she served as a Legislative Assistant and rose to the Assistant Legislative Director for House Speaker Karen Minnis. She continued her legislative experience in Washington State where she was a member of the Government Affairs team at the Washington Restaurant Association, one of Washington’s largest business organizations.

Pierce returned to Arizona in 2007, where she held positions at the executive level in the Brewer Administration as the Governor’s External Affairs Coordinator and for Attorney General Mark Brnovich as the Director of Community Outreach. She has worked on statewide campaigns in Oregon, Washington, and Arizona, managing a U.S. Senate race, targeted Congressional races, an initiative campaign, and numerous legislative races.

She currently serves on the Executive Committee for the Arizona Cactus League, Board of Directors of Arizona Sports Tourism Authority, the Valley FCA, Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, Arizona Lodging and Tourism Association, Phoenix Community Alliance, Phoenix Sister Cities Commission, the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation – Arizona Chapter, and on the Advisory Board for WISE Arizona. She also serves on the Public Affairs Committee for the Arizona Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Pierce was recently named on of Arizona’s Most Influential Women of 2023 in AZ Business Magazine.

A lifelong Arizonan, Pierce resides in Peoria with her son, Stevie.

Edna Sitelman

Ramat-Gan Committee Chair

Edna Sitelman

Ramat-Gan Committee Chair

Born and raised in Israel, Edna graduated from The Hebrew University in Jerusalem, following her military service in the IDF.

Upon arriving in the US, Edna obtained a Masters degree in Bible and Cognate Studies from the Hebrew Union College, Jewish Institute of Religion, and then a Doctorate in Education from the University of Cincinnati. She has devoted her professional life not only to teaching undergraduate and graduate level students, offering a variety of dynamic courses pertaining to Judaica, but also to serving as a school Principal within the Jewish communities in which she has lived. In that capacity she has worked hard to develop innovative curricula and engaging learning opportunities to children and adolescents. She has trained both parents and teachers, offering creative workshops, which aimed at establishing partnership between the school and the home.

Making Phoenix her home away from her native country, Edna is passionate about the betterment of her Phoenix community at large, and has lent her creativity and energy to a number of community endeavors. She joined the Board of Directors of Jewish Family and Children’s Service, where she has held several positions, including a two-time tenure as a board chair. With over 25 years of service to JFCS, Edna continues to find her work on that board both rewarding and inspirational. She is interested in the well functioning of non- profit boards, and is an advocate of the Governance Board Model.

Edna is proud to call herself a Phoenician. She is awestruck by the majestic beauty of the desert, the strength and resilience of our communities, and the ever growing and evolving Phoenix art scene. She is enthusiastic about the mission and vision of PSC. As chairperson of the Ramat- Gan Committee, Edna is looking forward to infusing the committee with new ideas and renewed energy, while collaborating with others for a more global impact.

Hyunsook “Jeanne” Sours

Suwon Committee Chair

Hyunsook “Jeanne” Sours

Suwon Committee Chair

Jeanne is currently serving on the Phoenix Sister Cities Suwon Committee as Chair. Jeanne served on the committee as Vice Chair for two years.

Jeanne was born and raised in Seoul, South Korea. She worked in the radio media as a talk show host and producer with the International Division of The Korean Broadcasting System in Seoul.

After her move to Arizona Jeanne earned her master’s degree in English from Arizona State University and taught English as a Second Language at ASU and Thunderbird Graduate School of Global Management. With the advent of the Internet in the ‘80s Jeanne developed a new career in Interactive Technologies. She had a long career in the Technologies Division of American Express Company as a Sr. Programmer Analyst and a Lead Project Manager.

After her long corporate career Jeanne joined Phoenix Art Museum, graduating from the Museum’s Docent Class of 2013. Since then, she’s been enjoying leading tours in the galleries, giving art talks in the communities, and leading Docent Training programs as a Master Docent. Jeanne currently serves on the Museum’s Docent Board.

Chiko Swiney

Board Member Immediate Past Chair

Chiko Swiney

Board Member Immediate Past Chair

Chiko is an attorney with Copperpoint Mutual Insurance Companies. She has a Master’s degree in International Trade Law from the University of Arizona, James E. Rogers College of Law. Prior to working for Copperpoint , Chiko worked for the Pima County Public Defender’s office in Tucson. She speaks Ibo (a Nigerian language). She has lived on three continents. She has two grown children. Her son lives in the UK and her daughter lives here in Phoenix. She loves to travel and meet new people and experience new cultures.

Mary Jane Trunzo

Disability Awareness Committee Chair

Mary Jane Trunzo

Disability Awareness Committee Chair

Ms. Trunzo is the Clinical Director of the Arizona Institute for Communication and Cognitive Disorders and is a certified Speech-Language Pathologist and Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapist. She has worked extensively with children and adults with acquired and traumatic brain injuries for over thirty years. Her practice has　specialized in a community-based rehabilitation paradigm with a clinical philosophy of empowerment for clients, family members and all stakeholders involved in an individual’s rehabilitation and return to maximum skill and independence.

Ms. Trunzo also has co-authored a clinical textbook entitled　"Communication and Coping Skills" and has accomplished research in the area of neurogenic-based communication disorders. She has lectured and provided training and workshops on Traumatic Brain　Injury (particularly in the area of Post-Concussive Disorders and　Pediatric Brain Injury) throughout Arizona, United States, Europe, Asia, and Mexico. Ms. Trunzo has received numerous awards for her outstanding work in the area of Acquired Brain Injury and for her　volunteer efforts to promote the capabilities of persons with disabilities across all disability categories. She also is a member of Valley Leadership, identifying her leadership role in the community.

In 1998, Ms. Trunzo co-founded the Disabilities Awareness Committee (DAC) of the Phoenix Sister Cities, which has received the prestigious National Disability Advocacy Award on multiple occasions for recognition of community leadership in the area of promoting disability awareness both in the United States and globally. Throughout the 20 years plus volunteering with DAC, Ms. Trunzo been actively involved in the development and ongoing continuation of ICAD, ICWD, the Bear and Book Holiday Fundraiser and other collaborative projects with both local disability groups and our fellow sister cities. Ms. Trunzo’s passion for improving the lives of persons with disabilities is her motivation for guiding DAC to even greater accomplishments in the future.

Marty Weems

Board Member

Marty Weems

Board Member

Marty is Managing Director of the Americas for Desert Control, stopping and reversing desertification and soil degradation.

Previously, he spent 11+ years with EXOS where he was its first VP of Sales and later VP of Strategic Business. He joined EXOS when it was about 30 employees and it grew to near 5000 staff at the time of his departure.

His business experience includes the telecom, wholesale distribution and pharmaceutical industries. Marty graduated Furman University (South Carolina) in addition to earning a MS and a MBA from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville.

Marty’s international business experience includes 30+ countries including China, Japan, Taiwan, Mexico, Australia, Russia, Germany, UK, Colombia, Brazil, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Israel. As a services exporter with Marty's leadership, EXOS was recognized by the City of Phoenix as an inaugural winner of “Service Exporter of the Year” in 2015 and the “Export Excellence” Award from Arizona District Export Council the same year. In 2016, they were awarded the President’s (POTUS) “E” Award for Exporting Excellence. Fast Company magazine recognized EXOS in its “Top 10 Most Innovative Companies” lists in 3 different years of Marty's tenure.

Marty, born in Eastern Tennessee, has been married to Susan Speliopoulos, a Phoenix AZ native, since 2008. They have 3 daughters; Savannah, Alexandra and Makenna.

Allan Yang

Chengdu Committee Chair

Allan Yang

Chengdu Committee Chair

Dr. Allan Yang is the Chief Scientist and Sustainability Officer for U-Haul International. Since joining U-Haul in 2007, Allan has spearheaded the development and execution of the Company’s overall sustainability strategies, while researching and evaluating innovative sustainability initiatives for local field operations. Among his many accomplishments, he established the Corporate Sustainability department and the Corporate Energy and Carbon Management program for U-Haul, leading innovation and sustainability strategy alignment to the company’s commitment to sustainable and shared mobility.

With over two decades of professional, academic, and industrial experience, Allan has been a pioneering force at the forefront of sustainability and management. He currently serves as the Chair of the Industry Advisory Board of the National Science Foundation-Center for Efficient Vehicles and Sustainable Transportation Systems. In his pivotal role as Chief Scientist for U-Haul, Allan has been the guiding force behind groundbreaking research endeavors, collaborating with prestigious universities and DOE national laboratories across diverse areas ranging from sustainable transportation to energy, construction, and urban planning. He was appointed as a VIP sustainability expert of a delegation of mayors by the U.S. Department of State, representing the nation at the 2016 Climate Leaders Summit in Beijing.

Allan holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Design and Planning from Arizona State University. He also has a Bachelor and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering and a Master of Business Administration. Along with his degrees, Allan has a certificate for Corporate Social Responsibility from Harvard University.

City Committees

Calgary Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Calgary Committee actively encourages and supports cultural, educational and business activities in both cities. It carries out student exchanges and promotes business development through trade missions and business forums. Additionally, the committee facilitates the annual participation of severely burned youth in Camp Courage. Among events the committee helps organize and host throughout Canada Week are the Great Canadian Picnic and Can-Am Golf Tournament. The Calgary Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Calgary Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Bob Albert [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rachel Benoit [email protected]

The committee meets every first Wednesday of the month, except July, August, and December.

Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are hosted via Zoom. Please contact the Chairperson or staff liaison for the meeting link.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Catania Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Catania Committee participates in artistic, cultural, educational and business activities and exchanges between Catania and Phoenix with the goal of bringing the culture of these two important urban centers closer. Among its signature activities is an annual wine tasting highlighting Sicilian wines. The committee also actively supports the Phoenix Sister Cities Youth Ambassador Exchange Program and collaborates on other sister cities events. The Catania Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Catania Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Ralph Marchetta [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard [email protected]

The committee meets the third Thursday of the month, except July and August. Meetings begin at 5:30pm at Starbucks at 2802 E. Indian School Rd.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Chengdu Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Chengdu Committee fosters and encourages mutual understanding, friendship and a higher quality of life for the people of Phoenix and Chengdu. The committee is bound by a commitment to creating partnerships, conduct exchanges and share expertise that translates into mutually beneficial relationships with citizens, organizations, businesses, and schools in the both communities served. Volunteer members work to promote signature activities, such as Chinese Week and promote collaboration in the areas of trade and tourism, youth and education, arts and culture, and municipal training. The Chengdu Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Chengdu Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Allan Yang [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Cindy Braun [email protected]

The committee meets every second Wednesday of the month, except July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 6:00pm and are at Lin’s Grand Buffet at 3955 E. Baseline.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Ennis Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Ennis Committee is dedicated to promoting friendship and understanding between the cities of Phoenix and Ennis through a variety of programs. The committee participates in the Phoenix Sister Cities Youth Ambassador Exchange Program, as well as the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Irish Faire. It also supports the Irish Cultural Center, coordinates an annual 5K Run/Walk, and promotes business opportunities between the two cities. The Ennis Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Ennis Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Joe Kiernan [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rachel Benoit [email protected]

The committee meets every third Wednesday of the month, except July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 6:00pm via WebEx. Please contact the Chairperson or staff liaison for the meeting link.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Grenoble Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Grenoble Committee promotes mutual understanding and friendship between the citizens of Phoenix and Grenoble. The committee facilitates projects in economic development, school-to-school exchanges, university cooperation, arts and culture, sports and disabilities. This translates into mutually beneficial relationships with citizens, organizations, businesses, and schools in both Phoenix and Grenoble. Volunteers work to promote such activities as Beaujolais Nouveau, which celebrates the first French wine of the season. The Grenoble Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Grenoble Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Janine Bobin [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rachel Benoit [email protected]

The committee meets every first Thursday of the month, except July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 5:00pm and alternate between virtual and in-person. Please contact the Chairperson or staff liaison for details.

City Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Hermosillo Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Hermosillo Committee oversees an energetic and diverse array of activities and exchanges between the two cities. They include a variety of student exchanges and visits, business and trade relationships, as well as extensive municipal cooperation, including police and fire. The committee has worked closely on issues of burn treatment and prevention and disabilities awareness projects. It has also focused on baseball, basketball and other sports. The Hermosillo Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Hermosillo Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Ana Juarez [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard [email protected]

The committee meets every second Wednesday of the month, except July.

Meetings begin at 5:00 pm and are held at 1700 W. Washington St., Suite 108 (Sonora Room), Phoenix, AZ 85007. PLEASE NOTE: You must arrive before 5:00 pm to access the building.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Himeji Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Himeji Committee supports the city of Himeji and promotes Japanese culture through its relationships with the Japan-American community and the Japanese Friendship Garden. The Japanese Friendship Garden (Ro Ho En), located in downtown Phoenix, is the product and shared vision of Phoenix and Himeji. It features flowing streams, an authentic tea house, a 12-foot waterfall and Koi pond. Committee projects include student and teacher exchanges, and participation in the annual Arizona Matsuri Festival. The Himeji Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Himeji Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Ilene Takiguchi [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard [email protected]

The committee meets every first Tuesday of the month, except July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are at Winship House at 216 W. Portland St.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Prague Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Prague Committee is an active focal point for promoting Czech culture in Phoenix, including the annual Evening in Prague and the Czech That Film festival. The committee also promotes reciprocal business opportunities, economic development forums, professional exchanges and the Phoenix Sister Cities Youth Ambassador Exchange Program. Volunteers work to foster the mission of Phoenix Sister Cities and the growth of Phoenix as an international city. The Prague Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Prague Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Irena Juras [email protected]
Staff Liason: Cindy Braun [email protected]

The committee meets every fourth Wednesday of the month, except July, and December. Meetings begin at 6:00pm and are hosted via Microsoft Teams. Please contact the Chairperson or staff liaison for the link.

City Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Ramat-Gan Committee

The Ramat-Gan Committee promotes youth exchanges, local and international art and cultural programs, sports, business and educational opportunities between the two desert cities. It also partners with other sister city committees to present events and conducts ongoing efforts to develop new initiatives benefiting both Ramat-Gan and Phoenix. The Ramat-Gan Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Ramat-Gan Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Edna Sitelman [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko [email protected]

The committee meets every second Thursday of the month, except July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 4:00 pm and are in person. Please contact the Chairperson or staff liaison for details.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Taipei Committee

The Phoenix Sister Cities Taipei Committee organizes exchange programs in arts and culture, education, business, culinary arts, sports and youth exchanges. The committee also participates in annual festivals, including Chinese Week; Taiwan art and photographic exhibitions; Taipei Chinese Culture Summer Camp; Chinese calligraphy events; and the Double Ten national day celebration. Other activities involve hosting visiting delegations, such as performers, teachers, and government officials, organizing back-to-school events and complimentary cultural outreaches to schools and service clubs to promote cultural awareness and diversity. The Committee meets monthly and welcomes new members.

Taipei Committee Contact Information

Chairperson: Wen Chyi Chiu [email protected]
Staff Liaison: Cindy Braun [email protected]

The committee meets every second Thursday of the month, July, August, and December. Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact the Chairperson or the staff liaison for the link.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Staff

Rachel Benoit

Business Relations Coordinator

Rachel Benoit

Business Relations Coordinator

Rachel is currently in her senior year at Thunderbird School of Global Management, completing a Bachelor’s of Global Management with a Certificate in International Studies. She was raised in Hickory, North Carolina, but upon moving to the Phoenix metro area to continue her education, realized how much she loved the valley. Rachel previously worked with Phoenix Sister Cities as an intern, where she cultivated a strong passion for community building and international relations. Additionally, her previous internship at a government affairs firm provided her with a comprehensive understanding of local, state, and federal government operations and their impact on business decisions. Rachel has an interest in cross-cultural communication, international historical perspectives, land conservation, and public policy.

[email protected]

602-534-2200

Cindy Braun

Events & Membership Coordinator

Cindy Braun

Events & Membership Coordinator

Cindy Braun was born in Brooklyn, New York and lived in Los Angeles before recently relocating to the metro area. Cindy’s primary emphasis has been in the Arts, Entertainment and Non-Profit sector, specializing in development, events, operations, community relations and strategic partnerships. She recently joined Phoenix Sister Cities as Events and Membership Coordinator, where she will focus on increasing membership as well as organizing events specifically geared towards our sister cities.

Before moving to Arizona, Cindy was Administrative Director for Everybody Dance LA! Prior to that, Cindy was Director, Membership, Operations and External Relations for the Paley Center for Media, where she launched a variety of membership initiatives and strategic community partnerships resulting in a 62% increase in revenue; drove rental sales which resulted in a 32% rise in new clients and 44% in profits.

Prior to joining the Paley Center, Cindy was AVP, Membership Group where she was responsible for creating appropriate strategies, incentives and programs for recruiting and retaining members. She organized and executed programs and special events for the Board of Directors and top-earning members. She supervised a department of six, as well as overseeing the Group staff of 45. Additionally, Cindy recruited student interns for five national Membership offices, acting as mentor to aide and foster career development. Cindy began her career in advertising and promotions working for the largest promoter in Southern California.

Cindy received her Associate of Arts degree from SD Mesa College. Her passions include music, travel, reading and gardening.

[email protected]

602-534-3751

Kyla Cassler

Youth and Education Program - Intern

Kyla Cassler

Youth and Education Program - Intern

Kyla Cassler is an undergraduate at Arizona State University (ASU), completing her last year with plans to graduate in the Spring. She is studying Anthropology and Religious Studies with a certificate in cross-sector leadership and public service. This certificate is through Next Generation Service Corps.

Kyla has completed three internships to date. Her first was working under Jane Goodall, followed by a position as an assistant to teach English to children in Barcelona, Spain. Most recently, she had a position with NAGPRA through ASU. Her hobbies include reading, playing with her cat, connecting with friends, and attending concerts. Kyla is very excited to be a part of Phoenix Sister Cities to help further her interest in International and public relations.

[email protected]

Rick Gerrard

Vice President

Rick Gerrard

Vice President

Rick Gerrard is Vice President of Phoenix Sister Cities Inc. and Deputy Director of the City of Phoenix International Relations Office. Phoenix Sister Cities is a non-profit corporation that manages ten sister city relationships on behalf of the city. He has served in this capacity since 1999. His work includes the design and coordination of international exchange projects and events around the world.

Among the major projects that he has managed was the fundraising initiative to finance the construction of a new kindergarten school in Chengdu, China, built after the 2008 earthquake in Sichuan Province. The kindergarten, named for the City of Phoenix, replaced a school that was destroyed during the earthquake. Rick also took the lead in the development of a training program for doctors and nurses in partnership with the Maricopa County Burn Center to address a critical need for the care of burn victims in Hermosillo, Mexico after the tragic day care fire of 2009 which took the lives of over 50 infants and toddlers. In addition to his sister city related duties, Rick works with international delegations visiting Phoenix on official business, briefing the mayor and city council, and managing matters of protocol for international visitors on official business with the city.

Prior to his arrival in Phoenix, Rick served as Deputy Director at Sister Cities International (SCI) in Washington, DC. He spent ten years with SCI in various capacities. Among his major achievements, Rick organized political, educational, and trade delegations to more than a dozen industrialized and developing countries including some sponsored by the US Department of State. These included the first visit of US mayors to South Africa after the collapse of apartheid (1995); the first visit of US mayors to Vietnam after the normalization of diplomatic ties (1996); and the first visit of US mayors to Northern Ireland, just prior to the Good Friday Agreement (1997). Rick also worked closely with the SCI Board to organize and conduct four Western Hemispheric Fora for municipalities held in the US and Latin America.

Rick has been involved in international affairs for over thirty years. He served for two years as SCI’s State Representative in Arizona and served one year as President of the Arizona State Sister Cities Association. Rick received his Master of Arts in Latin American History from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Sciences and Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. He speaks Spanish and Portuguese and served for two years as a United States Peace Corps volunteer in Paraguay.

[email protected]

602-495-5918

Rita Marko

President / CEO

Rita Marko

President / CEO

Rita Marko has been with the City of Phoenix for more than 20 years. Initially hired as the Library’s Development Officer, Rita staffed the Phoenix Public Library Foundation and raised funds for critical library services. She was promoted to the position of Library Community Relations Manager, where she was responsible for media relations, marketing and the development of the Library’s website – the City’s first responsively-designed site.

Rita transferred to the City Manager’s Office, where she supported two Deputy City Managers, and staffed three City Council Subcommittees and two task forces. Most recently, Rita served as the Management Assistant II in the Public Works Director’s Office.

Prior to coming to the City, Rita worked for the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, raising $1.5 million in about 18 months. She also worked for the Skokomish Indian Nation in Washington state, serving as the community’s Health Planner, Economic Development Planner and Director of Economic Development. Rita has a Bachelors and Masters degree in Anthropology from the University of Arizona, where the focus of her studies was culture change and economic development. Her Masters thesis focused on the Cuban Women’s Federation as an agent of change for women in Cuba.

[email protected]

602-534-2200

Aastha Patel

Assistant to the Vice President - Intern

Aastha Patel

Assistant to the Vice President - Intern

Aastha is a senior at Arizona State University, pursuing a major in Economics with a pre-law focus. She has previously interned at the Maricopa County Superior Court, where she supported the Commissioner and judicial staff on various court-related functions.

On campus, she serves as a research fellow at the Center for the Study of Religion and Conflict, reflecting her interest in the intersection of religion and politics, and is a member of the Student Economics Association. Aastha is particularly drawn to this role as it offers an opportunity to deepen her understanding of foreign relations and apply this knowledge within the City of Phoenix. In her free time, she enjoys practicing calligraphy, watching Bollywood movies, and spending time with her friends.

[email protected]

Janella San Juan

Marketing Intern

Janella San Juan

Marketing Intern

Janella San Juan is a Junior at Arizona State University, pursuing a degree in Human Systems Engineering. She is passionate about fostering cultural understanding and bringing people together. As an active member of Sigma Kappa, Janella contributes to event planning, raises funds for various philanthropies, and volunteers extensively, with a notable focus on supporting the Alzheimer’s Foundation. She is also excited to expand her knowledge in international relations and connect with new people. Outside of her academic and philanthropic commitments, she manages her small jewelry business, runs long-distance, and enjoys visiting coffee shops with friends.

[email protected]

Chenchen Zhang

Assistant to the President/CEO - Intern

Chenchen Zhang

Assistant to the President/CEO - Intern

Chenchen Zhang, originally from China, recently earned a master’s degree in public administration from Arizona State University. Currently, she works part-time as a Mandarin teacher at a public school in Phoenix. With a background in marketing from China, she has a passion for traveling, having lived in three countries and over seven cities in the past decade.

In addition to her diverse experiences, Chenchen has recently published a white paper on housing policy and zoning regulations for neurodivergent individuals, a project she undertook as a fellow with a non-profit organization. Her extensive volunteering with NGOs and animal shelters has deepened her commitment to public service. Looking ahead, she is eager to further contribute to non-profit organizations and actively engage with the community.

[email protected]

History

Over 40 Years of Sister Cities Relationships

Affiliations between the United States and other countries began shortly after World War II and soon became popularly known as Sister Cities. The Sister City movement became a national effort when President Dwight D. Eisenhower proposed the People-to-People program at a White House conference in 1956. Today, over 2,000 U.S. cities in all 50 states are linked with over 1,800 foreign cities in 123 different countries. Sister Cities International celebrated its 68th Anniversary in 2024. For more than 50 years, the Sister Cities program has broadened its areas of focus from educational and cultural exchanges to also include technical assistance, trade, and economic development.

Sister Cities International, as the national nonprofit membership organization serving members in the United States, acts as a clearinghouse and facilitator in assisting communities with the development and maintenance of their Sister City partnerships. Besides Phoenix, other Arizona cities that are members of Sister Cities International and support local sister city organizations include Flagstaff, Fountain Hills, Gilbert, Mesa, Peoria, Prescott, Queen Creek, Scottsdale, Show Low/Pinetop-Lakeside, Sierra Vista, Tempe, Tucson, and Yuma.

The City of Phoenix joined the Sister City movement in 1972 with the creation of Phoenix Sister Cities (PSC). As a nonprofit organization seeking to develop understanding and better relationships with designated cities around the world, PSC filed for Articles of Incorporation in 1975 and signed their first Sister City linkage with Hermosillo, Mexico in 1976. Since then, Phoenix has linked with Himeji, Japan (1976); Taipei, Taiwan (1979); Chengdu, China (1987); Ennis, Ireland (1988); Grenoble, France (1990); Calgary, Canada (1997); Catania, Italy (2001); Ramat-Gan, Israel (2005); Prague, Czech Republic (2013); and Suwon, South Korea (2021).

These invaluable partnerships offer a forum for fostering and encouraging mutual understanding, friendship and peace through cultural, social, educational, and economic exchanges between the people of Phoenix and the people of our Sister Cities.

For information on Sister Cities International, please click here.