Improving the quality of life in Arizona to benefit future generations.
The Flinn Foundation, a private, nonprofit philanthropy based in Phoenix, has appointed longtime Arizona public-sector administrator Cathy McGonigle as executive vice president.
A. J. "Jack" Pfister, for 50 years a major figure in Arizona's legal, business, and educational arenas, passed away July 20, 2009, at age 75. Among his contributions to the community was an 15-year stint on the Flinn Foundation board of directors.
The newest Flinn Scholars and the Flinn Scholars Program have honored 17 Arizona educators for their outstanding dedication and service. Each educator was nominated by a member of the 2009 class of Flinn Scholars for having a significant impact on their education and development.
Seventeen of Arizona's highest-achieving high-school seniors have decided to attend one of the state's public universities on a Flinn Scholarship. The award includes funding for four years of study, academic-focused travel abroad, mentorship by top faculty, and other benefits. Altogether, the package is worth more than $50,000--on top of the cash value of tuition, provided by the student's chosen university.
The Flinn Foundation board of directors has chosen a longtime Arizona leader in health care, education, and public policy as its next president and chief executive officer. Jack B. Jewett, a former president of the Arizona Board of Regents and five-term member of the Arizona House of Representatives, will succeed retiring President and CEO John W. Murphy, who has led the Foundation since 1981. Jewett will assume the position in June.
The Flinn Foundation has contracted with executive search firm Spencer Stuart to coordinate the search for its next chief executive. The move was prompted by the announcement of current President & CEO John W. Murphy to retire by June 1, 2009. Murphy joined the Foundation in 1981 as its executive director and first staff member.
How does Arizona fare six years into its long-term plan to build a thriving biosciences region? In a nutshell, the state has recorded rapid growth well above U.S. norms in generating federal grants and adding new bioscience jobs and firms. But the enduring need for capital investment for young companies continues to be an Achilles heel.