Staff
Jerry Cabrera, President & CEO
Jerry, a native of Yuma and a resident of Somerton, brings a distinguished background to his role. He served as the City Manager for the City of Somerton from 2019 to 2022, and his educational credentials include a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from NAU-Yuma and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Phoenix. Before assuming the responsibilities of City Manager, Mr. Cabrera held positions of employment at the Regional Center for Border Health and the Somerton Elementary School, where he ascended through the ranks to Assistant Superintendent.
Jerry's active involvement extends beyond his professional positions, as he has been an engaged participant in numerous Yuma County boards and committees. His contributions have been notable in organizations such as the Yuma Community Foundation, Yuma County Food Bank, Somerton Rotary, Yuma HOME Consortium, Yuma County Intergovernmental Public Transportation Authority, and various other committees dedicated to community development. Additionally, Mr. Cabrera maintains a portfolio of certifications, including but not limited to his Elementary School Certification, Mediation Certification, MBTI Trainer Certification, and Student Hearing Officer accreditation, which further exemplify his commitment to enhancing the educational and civic landscape of Yuma.
Email:
jerry@elevatesouthwest.org
Melina Conroy, Chief Operating Officer
Melina, a Yuma native and San Luis High School graduate, holds a master's degree in international Hotel and Tourism Management from Vatel France and a B.S. in Tourism Development and Management with a Certificate in Convention Sales and Meeting Planning from Arizona State University. She has a rich and diverse professional background in the tourism and hospitality industry. As a Social Media Manager at Pa’l Mundo Designs, LLC, she works with small businesses to boost their brand awareness through strategic social media use, creating content strategies that align with the company’s brand and fostering a strong online community. During her MBA internship at Promotora Neptuno in Bogota, Colombia, she focused on incoming tours, marketing, and sales, and developed itineraries emphasizing community-based tourism and sustainability in Colombia. At Visit Phoenix, as a Tourism Coordinator, she facilitated the organization and execution of trade shows, sales missions, and other events, ensuring effective communication with members and clients and supporting destination marketing initiatives. Melina is deeply committed to education, culture, travel, and sustainability. She utilizes her strategic and creative skills to foster positive development and progress within her local community. Email: melina@elevatesouthwest.org
Aaron Ruiz, Chief Innovation Officer
Aaron is originally from San Luis, AZ. He earned a bachelor's degree in science from Arizona State University, specifically from the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering and the W. P. Carey School of Business. His primary focus areas are Technological Innovation and Engineering Management. Throughout his career, Aaron has worked in various sectors, including the Department of Defense, healthcare, retail, and the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, he has successfully launched and managed several small businesses and provided consulting services, demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit and expertise. Aaron is a strong advocate for collaboration, actively partnering with different community entities to enhance the effectiveness of initiatives and improve program performance. He is dedicated to shaping the future of the region by leveraging the latest advancements in STEM to drive sustainable growth and development. Aaron believes that innovation knows no bounds. Let's innovate and elevate! Aaron was appointed Program Coordinator for Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Elevate Southwest in November 2023. Email: aaron@elevatesouthwest.org
Maria Ortiz, Executive Administrative Assistant
Maria Ortiz is a self-made entrepreneur and a dedicated administrative professional, proudly born and raised in Yuma, Arizona. Maria has held key leadership roles, including serving as Vice-President of E & M Farms Inc. Maria has over 20 years of experience in office management, customer service, scheduling, and financial administration across the agriculture, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. Known for her dependable nature, collaborative spirit, and solution-focused mindset, Maria has a proven track record of streamlining operations and enhancing team efficiency. Deeply rooted in strong family values, Maria takes pride in balancing her professional achievements with her role as a devoted family member. Her journey reflects not only her entrepreneurial drive but also her passion for uplifting her community. As a proud Yuma native, she approaches her work with integrity, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to progress and innovation, continually striving to give back to the community she calls home. As Administrative Assistant at Elevate Southwest, she is honored to work with the team that shares the same collaborative mission to serve the Greater Yuma Region. Email: maria@elevatesouthwest.org
Arlyn Galaviz, Director of Communications
Arlyn A. Galaviz is a dynamic communications professional with over a decade of experience in local government, workforce development, and regional collaboration. She currently serves as the Communications Director for Elevate Southwest, where she leads strategic communication initiatives and public engagement efforts.
Throughout her career, Arlyn has developed and led nationally recognized programs. She was instrumental in creating a NACo Achievement Award-winning employee training program for Yuma County, recognized for innovation in local government. Additionally, she helped with the creation of "Charlemos Yuma," a Spanish-language community television show that earned the 3CMA Award of Excellence for its impactful approach to community engagement and multicultural outreach.
She holds a BAS in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University, an AA in Administration of Justice, and certifications including Spanish Court Interpreter, Public Information Officer Awareness (DHS), Mental Health First Aid, and training facilitation credentials.
Previously, Arlyn held leadership roles with Yuma County and the City of Yuma, driving high-impact communication strategies and community initiatives.
Email: arlyn@elevatesouthwest.orgNazzer O. Mendez, Program Coordinator
Nazzer was born in Caborca, Sonora, Mexico. He earned a bachelor’s degree in international business at Sonora State University – Hermosillo Campus and an associate degree in marketing at Phoenix College. He has developed a professional career in the public and private sectors in the so-called Arizona-Sonora megaregion. He has solid experience in international business, consular services, economic development programs, cultural and educational promotion, community affairs, radio, conferences, and digital platforms, among others. Nazzer has previously provided his professional services in the following institutions: 4FrontED based in Yuma, AZ; Consulate General of Mexico in Nogales, AZ; Consulate General of Mexico in Phoenix, AZ; Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL; Phoenix College in Phoenix, AZ; and Grupo Socoada in Puerto Peñasco, MX. Nazzer was appointed Program Coordinator of Elevate Southwest in March 2023. He is responsible for developing regional partnerships with the K-12, higher education, and employers in collaboration with the leadership of the high-technology industry in the Yuma area. Create synergies with education leaders from Yuma County, AZ; Imperial County, CA; San Luis Rio Colorado, Sonora; and Mexicali, B.C. Implement a strategic social media plan, among other duties. Email: nazzer@elevatesouthwest.org
Tyler Nguyen – 3D Design Specialist
COMING SOON!
Email: tyler@elevatesouthwest.org