Board Chair
President and Chief Officer, United Food Bank
Jason Reed has nearly 20 years of professional experience as a strategist, fundraiser, and enterprise leader across a diverse range of environments. He has worked in large corporations, global strategy consulting firms, high-performing nonprofit organizations, philanthropic grant-making institutions, and has been involved in two successful entrepreneurial startups. Jason holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Minnesota and a master's degree from Harvard University.
In 2017, Jason was actively searching for a board position within a healthcare system that focused on providing high-quality healthcare to communities that traditionally had limited access. It was during that year that he had the opportunity to meet Sentari Minor, who invited him to interview for and join the Board of Adelante Healthcare.
Jason feels a strong sense of responsibility in ensuring that Adelante fulfills its mission by building an organization that delivers compassionate, high-quality healthcare to every patient they serve.
His extensive experience at an enterprise, executive, and board level equips him with valuable insights and expertise that contribute to the strategic decision-making process at Adelante Healthcare.
Vice-Chair
Director of Strategic Partnerships, COPLEX
Michael Ellenby has had a long and successful career in the field of technology sales and marketing. With a background in team leadership and management, he holds an MBA in International Management.
Michael is drawn to Adelante's dedication to serving the underprivileged. Being able to contribute to Adelante's journey in improving the lives of those in need brings him great satisfaction and fulfillment.
With his extensive skills, educational background, and years of experience, he sees the opportunity as a board member to make a meaningful impact by leveraging his expertise to help the organization grow and improve.
He tends to have opinions, and he tends to share them. He questions, listens, and suggests.
Secretary
Outreach Manager, Health Choice
Lupe's educational background includes attending junior college, and she has dedicated over 22 years of her career to serving Medicaid and Medicare members. In her current position, Lupe is responsible for developing community outreach initiatives, generating sales leads, implementing health and education programs, and fostering staff development. She has implemented boots-on-the-ground efforts to ensure that communities, regardless of economic or personal background, are educated about healthcare.
Lupe believes in the organization's mission and values, particularly its demonstrated compassion for migrant workers. Adelante's initial founding and ongoing commitment to supporting individuals and families in need resonates with her deeply.
Being a board member provides her with the opportunity to learn and understand the healthcare issues faced by the organization. Additionally, she can offer valuable feedback based on her experience and community background, contributing to the improvement and betterment of Adelante as a place of care for patients and the community it serves.
Lupe brings strategic insights and solutions from a managed care, marketing, and state and federal program perspective. She serves as a brand ambassador for Adelante to help market and bring new relationships to the business.
Treasurer
Managing Member, Gammage & Burnham
Heather Boysel received her B.S.E. in Bioengineering from Arizona State University in 2004, followed by a J.D. degree from the same university in 2007. Since then, Heather has been practicing law with the firm Gammage & Burnham.
Heather's introduction to Adelante came through a former colleague who had served as a board member. Intrigued by Adelante's commitment to serving underserved populations, she recognized that her background in handling legal issues for healthcare providers could be of great value to the organization.
Heather is always seeking ways to give back to the community and make a positive impact. She believes that Adelante's mission plays a critical role in providing essential healthcare to vulnerable populations.
With experience in healthcare reimbursement and regulatory issues, she is able to offer guidance in these areas.
Member at Large
Vice President and Chief Information Security Officer at Option Care Health
Jill Rhodes holds multiple law degrees focusing on national security law. She has played integral roles in both the US Government and the private healthcare sector. Jill has built cybersecurity programs for multiple organizations and has contributed to the field through publications and public speaking engagements. Her career initially began in international development, where she concentrated on democratic development, working in Africa, Latin America, and Russia. Additionally, Jill has published four books.
Jill chose Adelante because of her strong belief in the importance of giving back to the community and admiration for the organization's mission.
Even in her short time on the board, she has witnessed the profound impact of Adelante. She wears her Adelante gear proudly as she knows how the organization reaches the most needy. Jill is deeply inspired by Adelante's forward-thinking programs, exceptional leadership, and the unwavering commitment of the staff she has encountered. It is an honor for her to be affiliated with such an outstanding program.
Her ability to think strategically and tactically supports Adelante's long-term mission. Jill brings a distinct perspective that helps Adelante grow while assessing and avoiding risk.
Immediate Past Chair
Vice President and Chief of Staff, evolvedMD
Best known as an award-winning company culture whisperer and strategy guru, Sentari Minor has spent more than a decade cultivating new businesses, building brands, and advancing people and ideas at several category-leading enterprises and nonprofits in the Southwest. He received "40 Under 40" recognition in 2022 from the Phoenix Business Journal and is currently Vice President of Strategy and Chief of Staff at evolvedMD in Scottsdale, Arizona, an Inc. 5000 firm. SentariMMinor.com.
He chose Adelante because of his passion for health equity.
Being a board member of Adelante is important to Sentari because he gets to leverage his time, talent, and treasure to bring quality healthcare to more Arizonans.
He brings strategic thinking and deep community connections to the board.
Board Member
President, ManCom Inc
Darrell Leonard received his college education at the University of Maryland before embarking on a career in the US Army as a Military Intelligence Officer, where he spent the majority of his time stationed in foreign countries. Following his military service, Darrell joined ManTech International, an organization where he eventually retired as the Senior Vice President of ManTech NetCentric Communications Systems. In 2021, he relocated from Northern Virginia to Phoenix, Arizona, and established his own company, ManCom Inc., which specializes in providing support services to the Federal Government and Department of Defense.
Darrell admires Adelante's commitment to making a positive difference. Supporting an organization that prioritizes helping those in need resonates with him.
He enjoys being able to impact the communities that rely on organizations like Adelante.
With a diverse background encompassing strategic planning, business development, executive management, cybersecurity, cloud services, emerging technologies, and communications, he offers valuable insights and guidance.
Board Member
Director, Mckinney
Gabriel Ramirez has a strong background in media and agency business development. He has held the position of Vice President of Partnerships and Innovation for an influencer agency that was acquired by the Samsung Group. In addition, Gabriel serves as an advisor for the Digital Arts and Advertising Program at GCU (NASDAQ: LOPE).
He values helping others and building merit, making the opportunity to be a board member of Adelante Healthcare important to him.
Gabriel brings valuable expertise to the board of directors, particularly in the areas of social media marketing, influencer marketing, business development, interactive agency, digital marketing strategy, consumer research, content strategy, social media, multi-channel attribution, online marketing programs, paid media buying, and search engine optimization. His diverse skill set and knowledge contribute to the board's ability to develop effective strategies and make informed decisions.
Board Member
Medical Director - Southwest Oncology, Gordon Grado, MD, Inc.
Dr. Gordon Grado obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from Eastern Illinois University in 1974, followed by a Doctor of Medicine degree from Southern Illinois University in 1977. Gordon completed an internship at the University of Chicago from 1977 to 1978 and pursued a residency in Radiation Therapy at the Mayo Clinic from 1978 to 1981. He served as a Radiation Oncologist at Bishop Clarkson Hospital in Omaha, NE, from 1981 to 1984 and at Methodist Hospital in Des Moines, IA, from 1984 to 1987. From 1988 to 1997, Gordon held the position of Chair of the Radiation Oncology Department at Mayo Clinic Scottsdale. In 1998, he founded Southwest Oncology Centers, where he currently serves as the Medical Director.
The choice to join Adelante stemmed from Gordon's search for a healthcare provider group that offers comprehensive services to underserved patients who face resource, insurance, and support challenges. Through his office manager's investigation, he discovered Adelante Healthcare and recognized its alignment with his mission.
Gordon enjoys serving the Adelante community and extending support to patients who lack access to cancer treatment.
Gordon brings unique value to the board of directors by virtue of his medical expertise and his Hispanic background. His deep understanding of the medical community and patient dynamics allows him to provide valuable insights and guidance to Adelante Healthcare.
Board Member
Health Educator & Fitness Instructor, Area Agency on Aging, SUSD and MPS
Jan Hertzfeld has over 30 years of experience in the Health, Wellness, and Fitness Field. Throughout her career, she has worked and volunteered in various settings, including the YMCA, Government Employee Wellness programs at the federal and county level, Health Clubs, and Public Health departments. Jan's work has involved serving diverse populations and consistently prioritizing the improvement of their health and quality of life. She 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 chose Adelante because of the vision to provide compassionate, affordable healthcare to communities, particularly those who are underserved. With her knowledge in wellness, she believes she can make a meaningful impact and help foster a culture of care within the organization.
Jan brings passion, dependability, respect, and loyalty to the table.
Board Member
Jonah Ansell is an award-winning strategic marketing leader and data-driven team captain with a track record of helping world-class organizations build systems of growth, sustainability, and operational efficiencies. With a wealth of experience, Jonah has been recognized by renowned publications such as the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, MTV, Vogue, PRWeek, and Entrepreneur. Having spent two decades in the industry, Jonah is a two-time Omnicom veteran and a sought-after keynote speaker for Pixar. He holds an MFA from the USC Film School.
Jonah is impressed by the dedication of the leadership team to deliver compassionate solutions. As a board member of Adelante Healthcare, Jonah is motivated to contribute towards increasing access to comprehensive care and raising awareness of Adelante as a compelling and essential healthcare solution. He believes in the organization's potential to make a significant impact in the lives of individuals and communities.
Jonah has a spirit of curiosity, customer-centricity, and collaboration that enables him to approach challenges and opportunities with a fresh perspective.
Board Member
President/CEO of Arvizu Advertising & Promotions, Inc.
Ray Arvizu holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Grand Canyon University. As the owner of Arvizu Advertisements & Promotions for over 32 years, he has accumulated extensive experience in the industry, resulting in a remarkable revenue of over 300 million dollars.
The decision to choose Adelante was driven by Ray's strong desire to improve healthcare in minority communities. Recognizing the need for accessible and high-quality healthcare services, he found Adelante to be aligned with his goals and aspirations.
Ray is driven by the belief that everyone, regardless of their background, should have access to comprehensive healthcare.
With over three decades of experience serving on various boards, Ray brings valuable expertise to the board of directors at Adelante Healthcare. His involvement with organizations such as the US Chamber of Commerce, Greater Phoenix Leadership, Phoenix Chamber of Commerce, and Valley of Sun United Way showcases his dedication to community engagement and leadership.
Board Member
Hometown Scholars Coordinator, A.T. Still University
Nelida Acosta is a high school graduate who holds a background in agriculture. Growing up, her family traveled to different states until they eventually settled in Arizona, where Adelante Healthcare warmly welcomed them as patients.
Nelida has a strong desire to give back to the community and promote healthcare for the underserved. Recognizing the crucial role that community health centers play in providing accessible healthcare, she saw Adelante Healthcare as a perfect opportunity to support this mission.
Serving on the board is important to her because Adelante assisted her family when they had no healthcare and they continue to help those without insurance.
Nelida loves advocating for health center programs and assisting in the community where there is a need.
Attorney, Bain & Lauritano, PLC
Amy earned her Bachelor of Arts degree 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 abroad at the Nairobi International Institute of Law through Weidner University, College of Law.
With nearly thirteen years of experience as a prosecuting attorney and seventeen years in private practice, specializing in criminal appellate work, Amy's legal background is extensive.
Her introduction to Adelante Healthcare came through Ms. Jill Rhodes, a current board member, who shared her positive experiences with the organization. Amy was deeply impressed by Adelante Healthcare's commitment to delivering essential healthcare services to remote farm workers through mobile units.
Amy's motivation to join Adelante Healthcare stems from her awareness of the healthcare challenges faced by immigrant families, particularly those who work in fields. Her law school roommate's parents, who immigrated to the United States and worked in lettuce fields, provided valuable insights into these challenges, especially concerning access to healthcare while being uninsured. Adelante Healthcare's philosophy of providing high-quality medical care that addresses both the physical and mental aspects deeply resonates with her.
Amy now has the time and motivation to contribute meaningfully to others, driven by her extensive experience as a criminal defense attorney and a passion for addressing untreated mental health issues. She aligns closely with Adelante Healthcare's compassionate approach to behavioral health and shares their values and vision.
Raised with a strong work ethic, Amy offers dedication, a positive outlook, and diverse skills cultivated throughout her life experiences. She humbly seeks to further Adelante Healthcare's visionary mission as a potential board member.
Emeritus Board Member
Vice President, A.T. Still University
Gary Cloud is a Community Health Center zealot. He considers himself fortunate to work at a health professions university that shares his commitment to preparing healthcare professionals for the health center movement. With a wealth of experience and connections in the field, he has experience and connections with PCAs, NACHC, HRSA, and grant reviews. Gary also has a background in business, hospital administration, and managed care.
Gary chose Adelante because of the potential he sees in its mission. He cares about improving the health of local communities.
He brings a valuable perspective from his extensive experience in the healthcare field and his passion for community health centers.
Emeritus Board Member
Media Consultant, Independent Newsmedia
Greg Garcia has completed 36 hours of Business Management at San Antonio College and has since been involved in various ventures. Greg has been actively engaged in the real estate industry, specializing in purchasing and leasing homes with Homesmart Real Estate since November 2013. Additionally, he serves as a Media Consultant for Independent Newsmedia in Sun City, Arizona since March 2012. Greg also has expertise in Google AdWords marketing campaigns, having worked as a specialist with Direct Alliance/Google in Tempe, Arizona from March 2010 to July 2010. His passion lies in helping local business owners understand their needs and utilizing his network resources to address their challenges in business marketing and management.
Greg's journey with Adelante Healthcare began when he was approached to become a board member during the official Ribbon cutting event at the Surprise location. After becoming a patient himself, Greg became a proud advocate for Adelante in local communities, recognizing the importance of its services and the positive impact it has.
He actively collaborates with the city of Surprise, speaking about the offerings and benefits of Adelante Healthcare to the community. His participation in the NW Valley Epic Networking Mixer provides an opportunity to engage with local business owners and educate them about the services available to patients through Adelante Healthcare.
Emeritus Board Member
Vice-Chair, Dept of Osteopathic Family & Community Medicine, Midwestern University
Dr. Larry Sands is currently serving as 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 experience in leadership positions within state and local health departments in Arizona and Nevada, he brings extensive expertise in general preventive medicine and public health. Dr. Sands obtained his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) degree from Midwestern University's Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine and earned his Master of Public Health (MPH) from the University of Michigan School of Public Health. Before transitioning to his public health career, he practiced as a primary care physician in Michigan.
Dr. Sands chose Adelante due to its mission, which aligns with his values and belief that good health is a fundamental requirement for individuals to fully participate in society. He has witnessed and experienced the significant impact the board has had on shaping Adelante's future direction and success.
He brings valuable contributions based on his extensive experience as a public health physician, executive, and educator. His longstanding service on the board and his institutional knowledge of Adelante and its board of directors provides valuable insights and to the current board.
Emeritus Board Member
President & CEO, United Food Bank
Kristen Harris has a strong educational and professional background, specializing in business administration, finance, and strategy. She holds a BA in Economics, with a minor in Spanish, from Bucknell University. Kristen also earned a Masters in Business Administration from Arizona State University, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
Committed to leveraging her expertise, experiences, and voice in meaningful ways, Kristen dedicated herself to uplifting a community that deserves the best support and healthcare. As a board member, she actively contributes to the organization's strategic direction, leadership, and overall success.
As an Emeritus member and an employee of ATSU (A.T. Still University), Kristen has been dedicated to addressing key social determinants of health and promoting community outcomes. In addition, as the leader of a boutique financial consulting firm, KAHARRIS & CO., LLC, she applies her expertise to prioritize economic stability as a crucial aspect of improving overall community well-being.
