Let’s try to see the good in everything and everyone. Giving more humility and grace to others will certainly make this world a better place. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Honoring achievement is essential because it not only recognizes the hard work, dedication and innovation of individuals and organizations, but it also … [More]
Catrina Kahler
President & CEO, Artlink Inc.
It is my honor to serve as a champion of Arizona’s creative community. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? I would first note the traits of someone who has accomplished something of significance. This could include vision, commitment, skill, discipline, confidence, creativity, courage and perhaps more. Personally, I believe … [More]
Karen D. Johnson, Ph.D.
President & CEO, New Pathways for Youth
Our work at New Pathways has taught me the importance of being authentic, of being vulnerable, of being intentional — and I strive to model those values. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Phoenix is a center of innovation and entrepreneurship. It is a place where people can find their niche — or create their place. By honoring … [More]
Sintra Hoffman
President and CEO, WESTMARC
Find your passion, and hard work is effortless. Surround yourself with others who also want to make an impact, and the ripple effect is immense! Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Recognizing and highlighting achievements builds a brand of success and accomplishments for the region and state. Celebrating economic development … [More]
Noreen Bishop Hill
Managing Director, JP Morgan Private Bank
Others believe I’m an inspirational leader for my abilities to motivate, uplift and empower those around me with integrity, enthusiasm and respect. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? It’s important to honor achievements and recognize those who have blazed new paths, broken down barriers and achieved success as a role model to … [More]
Katherine Dei Cas
Executive Vice President, EMD Electronics
Leadership is a skill rooted in authenticity, transparency and a genuine commitment to an environment where both people and ideas can thrive. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Recognizing and celebrating achievements creates a powerful ripple effect that resonates through individuals, organizations and entire communities. By … [More]
Latasha Causey
President, Phoenix Raceway
Others would say I am an approachable servant leader with high expectations who works collaboratively to bring out the best skills in everyone. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Great leaders realize that honoring achievement is a reflection of the collective strength of their teams. No achievement is accomplished in a … [More]
Ambassador Barbara Barrett
25th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force
Leaders inspire others to explore, inquire and discover — always with a bias toward action. Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community? Excellence is a magnet. Honoring achievement highlights the expertise that is foundational to Arizona’s thriving business community. Recognition programs often benchmark performance that inspires … [More]
Leadership & Giving Back: Honoring Our 2024 Women of Achievement
“If I’m not for myself, who will be for me, if not now, when; but if I’m only for myself, what am I?” Taking a close look at the third part of this quote from Hillel, a noted Jewish philosopher who lived in the first century BC, we agree with the sentiment that doing good for others completes us as individuals. Our Women of Achievement awards this year celebrate women who … [More]
Barbara Barrett, 25th Secretary of the U.S. Air Force
The Leadership and the Power of Giving Back
In this annual Women of Achievement edition, In Business Magazine shines a special spotlight on women who are using their leadership positions in for- and nonprofit organizations to make a difference in our community. This year, the Women of Achievement Committee has sought women who demonstrate a powerful commitment to giving back to their communities. The Grand Canyon … [More]
It’s an Election Year for the Arizona Corporation Commission
Here’s why Arizona business owners and residents should care
This November, Arizona voters will have the opportunity to elect three of the five seats on the Arizona Corporation Commission — thereby determining the majority of officials controlling this powerful regulatory body. For those wondering, “What is the Commission?” and “Why should I care?” read on. What Is the Arizona Corporation Commission? The Commission is unique. First, … [More]
How to Align Business Success with Sustainable Development Goals
Prioritizing sustainability in the investment and lending industry leads to long-term success
SDGs, or Sustainable Development Goals, are universal guidelines established by the UN that call on organizations to participate in a collaborative effort to address social, economic and environmental issues. Prioritizing SDGs creates socially responsible businesses and enables leaders to identify growth opportunities. When implementing SDGs, business leaders should choose … [More]
Leader Resilience – Core of Culture & Organizational Success
And effective in combatting chronic stress and burnout
Chronic stress and burnout are not new to business or leadership. What is significantly different today is the increased levels of leadership chronic stress and their exponential ripple effects on organizations. This article helps leaders understand the relational impacts of burnout and clarifies why prioritizing leader resilience is crucial for organizational health, … [More]
Brewing Compassion: Echo Coffee’s Transformative Journey in Corporate Philanthropy
Echo Coffee, a beloved Scottsdale-based coffee shop, has become a beacon of community engagement and corporate philanthropy under the leadership of its compassionate owner, Rob Rigolfi Jr. Born with deep-rooted family values and a passion for helping others, Rigolfi has seamlessly blended his entrepreneurial spirit with his philanthropic endeavors, creating a unique model of … [More]
Moving from Feedback to ‘Feedforward’
How managers and companies can push employees to their best
We’re all familiar with the term and concept of feedback. Now, we are beginning to hear a new term applied to performance reviews: feedforward. From what I’ve read, this new term stems from younger employees challenging the status quo regarding feedback practices at their companies. This, in itself, is a good thing! Any business or organizational practice that has been around … [More]
Securing Your Funding Round: A Strategic Guide
Perseverance, a compelling pitch and a deep understanding of investor expectations are key
Securing funding for a startup is a complex endeavor requiring meticulous planning, persuasive communication and a deep understanding of investor expectations. On average, it takes 18 months to close a deal, according to PitchBook. While fewer than 10% of startups successfully secure VC funding, those that do often receive substantial investments. While there is no … [More]
Six Essential Employment Law Conversations for Growing Businesses
Navigating legal requirements to create a safe and productive workplace
Responsible business growth in Arizona begins with a commitment to a fair and productive workplace. Understanding the impact of employment practices and legal requirements on business is essential to that growth, which is the expertise attorneys bring to the enterprise. Fair Hiring Practices Adding employees is an important step in business growth, but hiring isn't as simple … [More]
Mike Nelson: Crafting Success in the Sandwich Scene
Mike Nelson forges franchise growth as Mr. Pickle’s Sandwich Shops charts nationwide expansion
In 2019, Mike Nelson ate a sandwich from Mr. Pickle’s while on business in California. At the time, it was a cult brand with locations limited to a regional section of the Golden State owned since the mid-1990s by a husband-and-wife team approaching retirement. So, what made Nelson — a veteran multi-unit franchisee — think he could purchase it and position the brand for … [More]
