Adelante Healthcare’s Board of Directors is composed of dedicated individuals from diverse backgrounds who are committed to advancing our mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to all.
With expertise spanning healthcare, business, and community leadership, our board works tirelessly to ensure that we remain patient-focused and community-driven.
Their guidance helps us continue to grow and innovate, meeting the ever-evolving needs of the communities we serve.
Board chair
Director of Strategic Partnerships, COPLEX
Michael Ellenby has enjoyed a distinguished career in technology sales and marketing, with a strong focus on team leadership and management. He holds an MBA in International Management, which has sharpened his strategic and operational skills.
Michael is drawn to Adelante's mission to serve underprivileged communities and finds deep fulfillment in contributing to this cause. His extensive experience and educational background equip him to make a significant impact as a board member. Known for his proactive engagement, Michael offers well-considered opinions, asks pertinent questions, and makes thoughtful suggestions. His collaborative approach fosters a dynamic environment that drives growth and improvement at Adelante Healthcare.
Michael’s dedication and expertise enhance the board’s strategic efforts, ensuring that Adelante continues to effectively serve those in need and advance its mission of providing high-quality healthcare.
Vice-Chair
Outreach Manager, BlueCross BlueShield of Arizona Health Choice
Lupe has dedicated over 22 years to serving Medicaid and Medicare members, leveraging her junior college education. In her current role, she develops community outreach initiatives, generates
sales leads, implements health and education programs, and fosters staff development. Lupe has led grassroots efforts to ensure communities, regardless of economic background, are well-informed about healthcare.
Lupe deeply values Adelante's mission and compassion for migrant workers. The organization's commitment to supporting individuals and families resonates with her. As a board member, Lupe gains insight into the healthcare issues faced by the organization and provides valuable feedback based on her extensive experience and community involvement. Her strategic insights from managed care, marketing, and state and federal programs contribute to Adelante’s continuous improvement. As a brand ambassador, Lupe helps market the organization, cultivate new relationships, and enhance its reach and impact.
Secretary
Chief Executive Officer, Black Box Consulting
Brian Ellison, holding an undergraduate degree from the University of Phoenix, has owned his Managed IT firm since September 2008. His journey with Adelante’s board began with an invitation from Amy Bain. After learning about the organization, Brian was drawn to it for two key reasons.
First, he is motivated by a desire to positively impact his community. Serving on Adelante’s board allows him to contribute meaningfully. Second, despite his limited knowledge of the healthcare sector, Brian enjoys the challenge of exploring new industries, seeing this role as an opportunity to expand his horizons while applying his skills.
Brian’s expertise spans technology, web development, and business management, equipping him to contribute effectively to Adelante’s mission. Whether providing strategic guidance or offering a fresh perspective, Brian is dedicated to helping the organization make a lasting impact on the community it serves.
Treasurer
Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer, Option Care Health
Jill Rhodes is a distinguished legal expert with multiple degrees specializing in national security law. Her career spans the US Government and the private healthcare sector, where she has been pivotal in developing cybersecurity programs and contributing through publications and public speaking. Jill’s professional journey began in international development, focusing on democratic development in Africa, Latin America, and Russia. She has authored four books.
Jill joined Adelante due to her strong belief in community service and admiration for the organization’s mission. As a board member, she has witnessed the profound impact of Adelante’s
work. Proudly wearing her Adelante gear, Jill is inspired by the organization’s innovative programs, exceptional leadership, and dedicated staff.
Jill’s strategic and tactical expertise supports Adelante’s long-term mission, providing valuable insights for growth while managing and mitigating risk. Her involvement reflects her commitment to meaningful change and supporting an organization dedicated to those in need.
Member at Large
Physician Practice Transformation Manager, District Medical Group
Veronica Ojeda holds a Bachelor of Science in Healthcare Administration and Management, along with a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt Certification. She is passionate about partnering with organizations dedicated to serving the community, particularly those supporting the underserved and indigent. Veronica is drawn to Adelante for its significant impact on healthcare access across the Valley.
Believing that high-quality healthcare is a fundamental need for all communities, Veronica aims to leverage her extensive experience to support Adelante Healthcare’s mission and vision. With over 19 years of leadership in healthcare, she has a proven track record in hospital and outpatient administration for non-profits. She has driven transformative changes in clinic workflows, aligning them with HEDIS and quality measures. Her commitment to improving healthcare outcomes reflects her dedication to enhancing the well-being of underserved populations through Adelante’s impactful services.
Immediate Past Chair
President and Chief Officer, United Food Bank
Jason Reed boasts nearly 20 years of diverse experience as a strategist, fundraiser, and enterprise leader. His career includes roles in large corporations, global strategy consulting firms, high-performing nonprofits, philanthropic institutions, and successful entrepreneurial startups. He holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota and a master’s degree from Harvard University.
In 2017, while seeking a board role with a healthcare system serving underserved communities, Jason met Sentari Minor, who invited him to join the Board of Adelante Healthcare. Jason is deeply committed to Adelante's mission of providing compassionate, high-quality healthcare to every patient. His extensive experience at enterprise, executive, and board levels provides valuable insights that enhance the strategic decision-making process at Adelante Healthcare.
Board Member
Attorney, Gammage & Burnham, PLC
Heather Boysel combines her expertise in bioengineering and law in her role with Adelante. She earned her B.S.E. in Bioengineering (2004) and J.D. (2007) from Arizona State University. Heather practices law at Gammage & Burnham, specializing in complex legal issues within the healthcare sector.
Introduced to Adelante through a former board colleague, Heather was drawn to the organization’s commitment to underserved populations. She saw an opportunity to leverage her legal expertise in healthcare reimbursement and regulatory matters to support Adelante’s mission.
Passionate about community service, Heather views Adelante’s work as crucial in delivering essential healthcare to vulnerable groups. Her involvement allows her to apply her skills meaningfully, helping address healthcare challenges and navigate complex regulations. Heather’s dedication to community service and belief in Adelante’s mission drive her efforts to contribute to the organization’s success and impact.
Board Member
Health Educator/ Fitness Instructor, Area Agency on Aging, SUSD and MPS
Jan Hertzfeld brings over 30 years of experience in Health, Wellness, and Fitness, with a career spanning the YMCA, federal and county wellness programs, health clubs, and public health departments. Her work has consistently focused on enhancing health and quality of life for diverse populations. Jan holds a master’s degree in public health from AT Still University and is a certified Fitness Instructor with the American College of Sports Medicine.
Jan joined Adelante because of its commitment to providing compassionate, affordable healthcare to underserved communities. She is driven by the opportunity to apply her wellness expertise to foster a culture of care within the organization.
As a board member, Jan offers her passion, dependability, respect, and loyalty, aiming to make a meaningful impact on Adelante’s mission and support its dedication to improving community health.
Board Member
President and Cheif Executive Officer, Arvizu Advertising and Promotions, Inc.
Ray Arvizu, holding a Bachelor of Science from Grand Canyon University, is the owner of Arvizu Advertisements & Promotions. With over 32 years in the industry, he has generated impressive revenue exceeding $300 million.
Ray joined Adelante due to his commitment to improving healthcare in minority communities. He aligns with Adelante’s mission of providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to all, regardless of background.
With over three decades of board experience, Ray brings invaluable expertise to Adelante Healthcare’s board of directors. His extensive involvement with organizations such as the US Chamber of Commerce, Greater Phoenix Leadership, Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, and Valley of the Sun United Way highlights his dedication to community engagement and leadership. Ray’s participation reflects his passion for ensuring comprehensive healthcare access and his commitment to making a meaningful impact.
Board Member
Hometown Scholars Coordinator, A.T. Still University
Nelida Acosta, a high school graduate with a background in agriculture, grew up traveling with her family before settling in Arizona. Adelante Healthcare was crucial in supporting her family during times when they lacked healthcare, making the organization a significant part of her life.
Motivated by a strong desire to give back and enhance healthcare for the underserved, Nelida joined the board of Adelante Healthcare to support its mission of providing accessible care. She values the essential services delivered by community health centers and sees her involvement as an opportunity to advocate for these programs and assist those in need.
Nelida is passionate about community contribution and supporting Adelante’s efforts to help individuals without insurance. Her dedication to advocacy and community support underscores her commitment to making a meaningful impact through the organization.
Board Member
Attorney, Bain & Lauritano, PLC
Amy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interpersonal Communication with a Business Management emphasis and a minor in French from the University of Montana. She continued her education at
Arizona State University’s law school and spent a transformative summer at the Nairobi International Institute of Law.
With nearly thirteen years as a prosecuting attorney and seventeen years in private practice specializing in criminal appellate work, Amy brings extensive legal expertise. Introduced to Adelante Healthcare by board member Jill Rhodes, Amy was impressed by the organization’s commitment to providing essential healthcare, especially through mobile units for remote farm workers.
Amy’s motivation to join Adelante stems from her awareness of healthcare challenges faced by immigrant families, particularly those in agriculture. Insights from her law school roommate’s parents, who worked in lettuce fields, highlighted these issues. Adelante’s focus on both physical and mental health aligns with her values.
Board Member
Partner, Quarles & Brady, LLP
Nicholas Meza’s career began in premed but shifted to community health, leading to a master’s degree in public health from the University of Arizona. His expertise was honed during two years at Mountain Park Health Center (MPHC). Nicholas then transitioned into law and is now a partner at Quarles, specializing in health law, including regulatory, compliance, and pharmacy law.
Introduced to Adelante by former boss Bill Rosenfeld, Nicholas was drawn to its mission and growth potential. He is enthusiastic about contributing to Adelante’s success, particularly in supporting holistic well-being and integrative care.
With board experience at PPAZ, Los Abogados, and AZSHA, Nicholas is well-equipped to tackle legal challenges in healthcare. As a fifth-generation Arizonan, he is eager to apply his insights and expertise to support Adelante’s mission of providing essential services to vulnerable populations.
Board Member
Strategic Business Partner Arizona, Mayo Clinic
Timothy Daugherty is a seasoned healthcare executive with 30 years of experience, including 15 years in C-level roles. He holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Illinois at Chicago and a bachelor’s in business administration and economics from Wesleyan University. Timothy currently serves as the Strategic Business Partner for Arizona at the Mayo Clinic.
Timothy joined the Adelante Healthcare Board of Directors to apply his extensive expertise in healthcare leadership and strategy. He is passionate about supporting Adelante’s mission of providing accessible, quality healthcare to underserved communities. With his deep knowledge in strategic planning, business development, and operational efficiency, Timothy is dedicated to guiding Adelante’s growth and ensuring it continues to make a significant impact on community health.
His role on the board allows him to influence the organization’s direction, helping it expand its reach, enhance its services, and fulfill its mission of compassionate care.
Board Member
Staff Physician, Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Dr. Angela Valdez-Huizar earned her undergraduate degree Magna Cum Laude in Physiology with minors in Chemistry and Spanish from the University of Arizona. She completed her medical degree and pediatric residency at Phoenix Children’s Hospital in 2013.
Passionate about Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Dr. Vandez-Huizar was drawn to Adelante for its holistic approach to medicine, offering evidence-based care across medical, dental, pharmacy, behavioral health, and community services. She sees Adelante as a model for creating thriving communities.
As a board member, Dr. Vandez-Huizar values the opportunity to impact her community beyond medicine, engaging with and educating others. She brings a fresh perspective, driven by a passion for quality improvement, clinical excellence, and sustainability in medicine. Her commitment is to help Adelante succeed through provider sustainability and innovative community engagement, enhancing the organization’s impact on the communities it serves.
Board Member
Director of State Health Policy/Advocacy, Vitalyst Health Foundation
Ana Roscetti brings 20 years of expertise in public health, community medicine, and healthcare workforce development to Adelante’s board. With 14 years of experience in state government at the Arizona Department of Health Services (ADHS), followed by three years at the Arizona Primary Care Association, Ana currently serves with a foundation overseeing public policy and advocacy. Adelante’s mission is deeply personal for Ana; her family, including her mother, sister, nieces, and sons, have all received quality care through Adelante. She’s passionate about making healthcare accessible for underserved and uninsured communities and is honored to serve an organization that has impacted her own family. Ana contributes a wealth of knowledge in state and federal healthcare policies, strategic planning, and healthcare integration. As a board member, she is dedicated to supporting Adelante’s mission to ensure accessible, high-quality care for all, creating healthier, thriving communities across Arizona.
Emeritus Board Member
Chief of Staff and Head of Investor Relations, EvolvedMD
Sentari Minor is renowned for his expertise in company culture and strategic planning, with over a decade of experience nurturing businesses, building brands, and advancing ideas at prominent enterprises and nonprofits across the Southwest. His exceptional work earned him a spot on the Phoenix Business Journal’s “40 Under 40” list in 2022. Currently, Sentari serves as the Vice President of Strategy and Chief of Staff at evolvedMD, an Inc. 5000 firm in Scottsdale, Arizona.
Sentari joined Adelante out of a deep commitment to health equity, aiming to enhance access to quality healthcare for underserved communities in Arizona. As an emeritus board member, his contributions have been invaluable. He continues to provide strategic insight and leverage his community connections to support Adelante’s objectives. Sentari’s ongoing involvement reflects his dedication to making a significant impact in the healthcare sector and supporting equitable access to care.
Emeritus Board Member
Medical Director - Southwest Oncology
Dr. Gordon Grado began his distinguished medical career with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Eastern Illinois University and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University. After an internship at the University of Chicago and a residency in Radiation Therapy at the Mayo Clinic, he served as a Radiation Oncologist at Bishop Clarkson Hospital and Methodist Hospital. He led the Radiation Oncology Department at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale from 1988 to 1997 and founded Southwest Oncology Centers in 1998, where he remains Medical Director.
Dr. Grado joined Adelante to support comprehensive healthcare for underserved patients facing resource challenges. Introduced to Adelante by his office manager, he was inspired by its mission of providing essential care. As an emeritus board member, he continues to support Adelante’s mission, particularly in extending cancer treatment access. His medical expertise and Hispanic background enhance Adelante’s ability to deliver quality, culturally sensitive care to its diverse patient base.
Emeritus Board Member
Vice President, A.T. Still University
Gary Cloud is a dedicated advocate for Community Health Centers, aligning his work at a health professions university with his commitment to training healthcare professionals for this movement. His extensive experience spans Primary Care Associations (PCAs), the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC), the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), and grant reviews, complemented by a robust background in business, hospital administration, and managed care.
Gary joined Adelante to leverage its potential for improving local community health, driven by his belief in the transformative power of Community Health Centers. He values Adelante’s holistic care approach and innovative solutions for underserved populations.
As an emeritus board member, Gary brings invaluable experience and a deep passion for community health. His expertise in operational and strategic aspects of healthcare supports Adelante’s mission to advance services and enhance community well-being, reflecting his commitment to making a meaningful impact through the organization’s initiatives.
Emeritus Board Member
Account Sales Representative, Independent News Media/ Home Start Brokerage
Greg Garcia has completed 36 hours of Business Management at San Antonio College and is active in multiple ventures. He specializes in real estate with Home Smart Real Estate, focusing on purchasing and leasing homes since 2013. Greg also works as a Media Consultant for Independent News media in Sun City, Arizona, and has expertise in Google AdWords marketing from his tenure with Direct Alliance/Google.
Greg’s involvement with Adelante Healthcare began when he joined the board at the Ribbon Cutting event for the Surprise location. His experience as a patient deepened his commitment to Adelante’s community impact.
As an emeritus board member, Greg collaborates with the city of Surprise to promote Adelante’s services and engages with local business owners through events like the NW Valley Epic Networking Mixer. His dedication to community health and local business underscores his role in advancing Adelante’s mission.
Emeritus Board Member
Vice-Chair of Family & Community Medicine, Midwestern University
Dr. Larry Sands is the vice-chair of the Department of Osteopathic Family & Community Medicine at Midwestern University's Arizona College of Osteopathic Medicine. With over 25 years of leadership experience in state and local health departments in Arizona and Nevada, he has extensive expertise in preventive medicine and public health. He earned his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) from Midwestern University's Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and a Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Michigan.
Dr. Sands joined Adelante because its mission aligns with his belief in the essential role of health for full societal participation. His experience has demonstrated the board’s significant impact on guiding Adelante’s success.
As an emeritus board member, Dr. Sands provides valuable insights from his background as a public health physician, executive, and educator. His extensive service and deep knowledge of Adelante enhance the board’s strategic vision and effectiveness.
Emeritus Board Member
Financial Manager, KAHARRIS & CO., LLC
Kristen Harris has a strong background in business administration, finance, and strategy. She holds a BA in Economics with a minor in Spanish from Bucknell University and an MBA from Arizona State University.
Kristen is deeply committed to uplifting communities and ensuring access to quality healthcare, contributing significantly to Adelante’s strategic direction and success as an emeritus board member. Her dedication also extends to her role at A.T. Still University, where she addresses social determinants of health and improves community outcomes.
As the leader of KAHARRIS & CO., LLC, a boutique financial consulting firm, Kristen leverages her financial expertise to promote economic stability, which is essential for community well-being. Her contributions play a crucial role in enhancing Adelante’s impact and leadership within the community.
