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.

Genevieve Burns

Board Secretary | Himeji Committee Chair

Genevieve Burns

Board Secretary | Himeji Committee Chair

Genevieve Burns graduated from San Jose State University with a Master's in Library and Information Science and from Northern Arizona University with Bachelor's degrees in International Affairs, emphasis on Asian Studies, and Communications Studies. She has worked in public libraries and youth-oriented nonprofits and programs for the last decade. A librarian and lifelong martial artist, she enjoys travel and has lived in two of our sister cities countries. She is married to a Soto Zen priest and is raising two dogs.

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.

Adam Hawkins

Commission Member | Suwon Committee Chair

Adam Hawkins

Commission Member | Suwon Committee Chair

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

Ana Juarez

Commission Member

Irena Juras

Prague Committee Chair

Irena Juras

Prague Committee Chair

Anthony King

Board Member

Anthony King

Board Member

Anthony King

Joe Kiernan

Ennis Committee Chair

Joe Kiernan

Ennis Committee Chair

Lin Ling Lee

Commission Member

Lin Ling Lee

Commission Member

Lin Ling Lee’s motto is “Educate younger generations today to become leaders of tomorrow." Lee believes international perspectives, ties, exchanges, cooperation, and unity are important for the world. Lee has devoted more than 30 years to build leadership roles in Taiwanese, Chinese, Asian, and American organizations as President, Principal, Chair, Director, and Advisor. Lee’s specialties include Global Relations, Public Relations, Education, Arts, Culture, and Business. Lee is Taiwan Overseas Community Affairs Council Advisor, recognized by the Taiwan Government and President.

Lee’s awards include Phoenix USA Hometown Hero, US Congressional Recognition for Volunteer Service, Arizona Governor Recognition for Community Service, Arizona Dr. Martin Luther King Living the Dream Award, US Presidential Award for Volunteer Service, Medal of Honor from Taiwan Overseas Community Affairs Council, City of Scottsdale Diversity Champion Award, Phoenix Mayor’s Partnership Award, Outstanding Principal of the Year, Arizona Women Impact Award, Taiwan International Outstanding Woman Award, Outstanding Citizenship Award for Arizona Asian American Association, Volunteer Medal International Award of Circle of Distinguish Volunteer Global Citizenship Award from Phoenix Sister Cities International, Phoenix Sister Cities Taipei Sister Cities Volunteer of the Year, Friend of Taipei City Council Gold Plaque, and much more.

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

Karla Moran

Commission Member

Karla Moran

Commission Member

Karl Obergh

Commission Member

Karl Obergh

Commission Member

Jacqueline Palmenberg

Grenoble Committee Chair | Board Treasurer

Jacqueline Palmenberg

Grenoble Committee Chair | Board Treasurer

Jacqueline Palmenberg has a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Emmanuel College in Boston, and a Master of Arts in Sociology from the University of Maine in Orono. She worked for 38 years in fundraising and administrative positions for non-profits, and now consults for national charities. She is on the boards of the Planned Giving Roundtable of Arizona, and the City of Phoenix Library Foundation.

Jacqueline is of French-Canadian descent, and joined the Grenoble Committee in 2018, becoming Chair in 2019. She and husband, Roger, have two children and six grandchildren.

Amilyn Pierce

Commission Member

Amilyn Pierce

Commission Member

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.

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.

Paul Wade

Hermosillo Committee Chair

Paul Wade

Hermosillo Committee Chair

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.

Melissa Werner

Board Chair | Youth & Education Committee Chair

Melissa Werner

Board Chair | Youth & Education Committee Chair

Melissa Werner 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®.

Allan Yang

Chengdu Committee Chair

Allan Yang

Chengdu Committee Chair

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 bobalbert@swba.co
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

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

Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rita Marko 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: Michael Kennedy kmichael.kennedy@aexp.com
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard rick.gerrard@phoenix.gov

The committee meets the third Thursday of the month, except July and August.

Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rick Gerrard for the meeting link.

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: Dianna Noli Hill catenal@cox.net
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

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

Meetings begin at 6:00pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rita Marko for the meeting link.

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 josephkiernan123@gmail.com
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@gmail.com

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

Meetings begin at 6:00pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rita Marko 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: Jacqueline Palmenberg palmenbergj@gmail.com
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard rick.gerrard@phoenix.gov

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

Meetings begin at 5:00pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rick Gerrard for the meeting link.

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: Paul Wade pwade590@gmail.com
Staff Liaison: Rick Gerrard rick.gerrard@phoenix.gov

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

Meetings begin at 6:00pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rick Gerrard for the meeting link.

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: Genevieve Burns genevieve.burns@phoenix.gov
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

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

Meetings begin at 5:30pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rita Marko for the meeting link.

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 irena@juraslaw.com
Staff Liason: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

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 Rita Marko for the meeting link.

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 ednasite@yahoo.com
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

The committee meets every second Thursday of the month, except July, August, and December.

Meetings begin at 4:00 pm and are hosted via WebEx. Please contact Rita Marko for the meeting link.

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 wenchiu88@hotmail.com
Staff Liaison: Rita Marko rita.marko@phoenix.gov

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 Rita Marko for the meeting link.

Committee Meeting Times and Locations

Staff

Bailee Roeder

Youth and Education Program Intern

Bailee Roeder

Youth and Education Program Intern

Bailee is a junior at Arizona State University, getting her Bachelor’s degree in Social Justice and Human Rights. In her spare time, she loves to read, travel, and discover new ways to apply her degree to everyday life. Bailee is excited to start her internship through Phoenix Sister Cities to learn about how core relationships are developed with other cities across the globe, as well as deepening her knowledge of how cities work.

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.

cindy.braun@phoenix.gov

602-534-3751

Megan Blood

Business Relations Coordinator

Megan Blood

Business Relations Coordinator

Megan graduated from Grand Canyon University with a bachelors degree in Supply Chain and Logistics Management. She was raised in Chicago metro and moved to Arizona five years ago. Megan has previously had internships in international trade, venture capital, workforce development, and angel investing. She has an interest in international development, community building, and poverty alleviation.

megan.blood@phoenix.gov

602-534-2200

Xavier Corella

Youth & Education Coordinator

Xavier Corella

Youth & Education Coordinator

Xavier graduated from Thunderbird School of Global Management with a Bachelors in Global Management and a focus in International Trade. Xavier was raised in Hermosillo, Mexico, Phoenix's first sister city. He has previously worked with Phoenix Sister Cities as a Youth Ambassador from Hermosillo and as an intern here in Phoenix. He has an interest in International Relations and Public Policy as well as Cross-Cultural Management and Communications.

xavier.corella@phoenix.gov

602-534-8395

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.

rick.gerrard@phoenix.gov

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.

rita.marko@phoenix.gov

602-534-2200

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 50th Anniversary in 1996. For more than 42 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); and Prague, Czech Republic (2013).

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.