🎉 Voting Now Open: 2025 WISE Arizona Women of Inspiration Awards 🎉
https://forms.gle/KXd6YAvTVnLq33az6
We’re thrilled to announce that voting is now open for the 2025 WISE Arizona Women of Inspiration Awards—our annual celebration recognizing the trailblazers, leaders, and change-makers making an impact in the sports and events industry across Arizona.
This is your chance to help us spotlight the women who uplift, inspire, and push our community forward.
🗳️ Here’s what you need to know:
Whether she’s mentoring the next generation, breaking barriers, or leading with strength and purpose—let your voice be heard and help us honor the women who make a difference.
👉 Cast your vote now and be part of recognizing the best of WISE Arizona.
https://forms.gle/KXd6YAvTVnLq33az6
Not a member yet? Join today and help shape the future of our community.
2025 WISE AZ WOMEN OF INSPIRATION NOMINEES
Sarah Benken
Founder/CEO
KNOW Women
Sarah, founder and CEO of KNOW Women, exemplifies achievement through her leadership in creating a supportive space for women advancing in various industries. She has made significant contributions by fostering recognition and success for women striving to succeed, helping many reach career goals and high incomes. Her innovative approach has positively shaped Arizona’s sports and events landscape by emphasizing empowerment and community. Sarah’s journey from humble beginnings to success highlights her talent and perseverance. Overall, she demonstrates exceptional skill, innovation, and a commitment to uplifting women in their professional pursuits.
Stacia Brocco
Director of Human Resources
Levy
Stacia has significantly impacted the Arizona sports and events industry through her leadership and innovation at Levy. She transformed the outdated manual attendance process by introducing a QR code system, streamlining check-ins and improving efficiency for the Concessions Team and Premium NPO program at Phoenix Raceway. Stacia is constantly seeking ways to improve, automate, and guide our staff, encouraging openness and forward thinking. She genuinely cares about our company and goals, always looking ahead and talking about the “future us.” Her dedication is already making a lasting difference at Phoenix Raceway and other tracks across the region.
Summer Comstock
Senior Director, Legal Affairs/Associate General Counsel
Arizona Diamondbacks
Summer Comstock exemplifies sportsmanship, integrity, and fairness both in and out of her role as Senior Director of Legal Affairs & Associate General Counsel for the Arizona Diamondbacks. She ensures all departments operate ethically and fairly, while also emphasizing the importance of moral responsibility in every decision. Summer’s commitment extends beyond the office through her advocacy for gender equity as a Leadership Advisor for Baseball for All and her role on the Advisory Board for St. John’s University’s Sports Management program. Summer is also passionate about animal rescue, volunteering and fostering dogs, one of whom recently became a permanent part of her family. Her ability to balance a high-level legal career with meaningful community impact makes her a true Woman of Inspiration.
Polly Flachman
Vice President of Community Engagement, CDME
Visit Phoenix
Polly Flachman is a transformative leader whose integrity, empathy, and visionary strategy have made a lasting impact on Arizona’s sports and events community. As a senior executive, she fosters inclusive, high-performing teams, champions underrepresented voices, and leads with a deep commitment to equity. A true champion for the community, Polly emphasizes the shared mission of economic growth through tourism and business collaboration in every conversation she has with local partners. Her strategic leadership has significantly increased Visit Phoenix’s visibility and engagement, resulting in stronger support for local events, initiatives, and partnerships that elevate the Valley. Polly’s ability to unify teams, empower others, and drive meaningful community impact makes her a standout leader in every sense.
Joy Harper
Director, People & Culture
Player 15 Group
Joy demonstrates exceptional leadership by creating space for her team to make decisions and think critically without fear of judgment. She values diverse perspectives and supports others thoughtfully, offering alternative solutions when needed while honoring their ideas. As a manager, peer, and mentor, Joy is deeply invested in helping her team grow professionally and personally, all while driving the organization forward. Even in difficult or emotional moments, she remains calm and composed, fostering a safe environment where people can express their feelings without fear of criticism. Joy’s combination of empathy, encouragement, and steady guidance makes her not only a fantastic leader but also a trusted ally and advocate within the workplace.
Jessica Kubicki
Marketing Strategist
Jessica is an exceptional leader whose creativity, dedication, and hard work have made a lasting impact on Arizona’s event and sports communities. She actively supports new ideas, fosters consistent partnerships, and engages deeply with the local community, driving impressive outcomes in her marketing and event projects. Known for her innovative approaches and unique solutions, Jessica has built strong relationships with major organizations including Desert Diamond Arena, State Farm Stadium, Fiesta Bowl, Super Bowl, the Arizona Cardinals, and more. Her behind-the-scenes efforts have been vital to planning and executing high-profile events that elevate the West Valley. Jessica’s unwavering commitment and remarkable influence make her a true Woman of Inspiration and a standout role model for the region.
Shanelle Kunz
CEO & Founder
Desert Farm Lights
Shanelle Kunz is the founder and creative force behind Desert Farm Lights and The Desert Fall Festival — two large-scale seasonal events bringing joy to tens of thousands of families in Arizona each year. With a passion for community, storytelling, and creating unforgettable experiences, Shanelle has turned her vision into one of the West Valley’s most anticipated traditions. She’s known for her hands-on leadership, innovative approach to event planning, and deep commitment to giving back through west valley fundraisers and local partnerships.
Elana Kutz
Managing Director, Student and External Affairs, Sports Business
Arizona State University
Elana Kutz has been a driving force behind the growth of the Arizona State University Sports Business program, transforming it from a small cohort into one of the nation’s leading programs. Her dedication to student success and real-world experiences, including organizing major outreach trips and connecting students with global internships, prepares graduates to excel in the competitive sports industry. Elana’s mentorship empowers the next generation of sports leaders, with her influence felt across numerous Valley sports organizations that hire ASU alumni. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted mother and active community member, serving on the Chaparral High School Theatre Parent Board. Elana’s passion, leadership, and commitment make her an invaluable asset to both the sports industry and her community.
Marie Keeler
VP of Brand & Marketing
Fiesta Sports Foundation (“Fiesta Bowl”)
Marie Keeler, Vice President of Brand & Marketing, is a transformative leader who has redefined Arizona’s sports and events landscape through innovative, data-driven brand strategies and immersive fan experiences. Her forward-thinking approach blends creativity with technology to expand community engagement and modernize event storytelling, while championing inclusive narratives that reflect diverse voices. Marie fosters a culture of collaboration, trust, and empowerment, mentoring others, especially women, to thrive in the competitive sports industry. Beyond her professional achievements, Marie is deeply committed to purpose-driven work that aligns brand success with meaningful community impact. Through her visionary leadership, empathy, and dedication, Marie continues to inspire, uplift, and shape the future of the industry.
Kristin Miller
Director, Partnership Marketing
NASCAR
Kristin Miller has been a dedicated leader in the NASCAR family for over 12 years, driving innovation and excellence while helping maintain Phoenix Raceway’s industry leadership. Beginning in Corporate Sales, she quickly earned a reputation for cultivating strong partnerships and delivering exceptional value. As Director of Partnership Marketing, Kristin leads major national partnerships, ensuring impactful results that align with NASCAR’s brand and fan engagement goals. Beyond her professional success, she balances family life while serving as Membership Lead for Women in NASCAR (WIN), fostering growth, collaboration, and opportunities for women in the sport. Kristin’s passion, strategic vision, and commitment to inclusivity have made her a respected cornerstone of NASCAR, inspiring others through her leadership and dedication.
Stephanie Pentelute
Vice President, Client Services
Commit Agency
Stephanie is a visionary leader whose 25+ years in marketing and advertising have transformed Arizona’s sports and events landscape through bold, results-driven campaigns. Her influence spans motorsports and major travel destinations, where she blends creativity, technology, and strategy to captivate audiences and deliver measurable success. More than her impressive tenure, Stephanie inspires through the way she leads, with honesty, passion, and a genuine commitment to her team and clients. She builds trust, fosters growth, and brings positive energy even in challenging moments, making everyone around her feel valued and motivated. In an industry that thrives on reinvention, Stephanie stands out not only for her innovation but for her kindness, integrity, and the lasting impact she has on people.
Jay Parry
President & CEO
Arizona Major Events Host Committee
Jay Parry is a visionary leader whose work has profoundly shaped Arizona’s sports and events landscape. As President & CEO of the Arizona Super Bowl Host Committee, she delivered a world-class Super Bowl LVII that generated over $1.3 billion in economic impact while setting new standards for community investment, diversity, and sustainability. With a career spanning the NBA, WNBA, and NFL, Jay has consistently elevated Arizona’s presence on the national stage and broken barriers for women in sports leadership. Her impact goes far beyond events as she mentors emerging talent, champions equity in business, and redefines how sports can uplift communities. Jay’s legacy is one of innovation, inclusion, and transformative leadership that continues to inspire across the industry.
Emily Sadler
Founder/Owner
ETC. by Emily & No Filter Coffee Shop
Emily Sadler exemplifies leadership, innovation, and achievement as the owner of multiple successful businesses, including Etc. by Emily and No Filter Coffee Shop. She leads with compassion and strength, always putting her team first and offering steady guidance through challenges. Emily's creativity and dedication fuel memorable events, even as she and her staff often work behind the scenes. Her impact on the community and her commitment to uplifting others make her a true force in Arizona’s business and events space. It’s time Emily takes center stage for the inspiration she brings to her team, her clients, and the broader community.
Erin Schneiderman
Clinical Assistant Professor
Arizona State University Watts College
For over 20 years, Erin Schneiderman has demonstrated exceptional leadership, mentorship, and service within Arizona’s sports, tourism, and events community. As a senior-level educator and practitioner, she has created impactful partnerships that provide students with hands-on experience at major events like the Super Bowl, NASCAR Championship, PGA Waste Management Open, and more. A recognized industry leader and multiple-time honoree among the “Top 100 Influential People in the Events Industry,” Erin is a trailblazer for women in sports, advancing equity, representation, and career development for hundreds of students. Now a PhD candidate, Erin continues to shape the future through her teaching, mentoring, and advocacy empowering the next generation of leaders in sports and events. Her influence is unmatched in Arizona higher education, and her legacy is reflected in the success and confidence of every student she inspires.
Alexis Stevens
Director, Business Development
Arizona Cardinals
In just 20 months with the Arizona Cardinals, Alexis has made a powerful impact as Director of Business Development, growing the organization’s revenue while leading and developing the Sales Development team. Under her leadership, more than 15 team members have been promoted internally and externally which is a testament to her dedication to mentoring the next generation of sports industry professionals. Alexis is a strong and inspiring female leader who not only drives new sales but also cultivates a culture of growth, opportunity, and excellence. Her influence extends beyond performance metrics, as she consistently hires and develops top-tier talent in sales and service. Alexis’s leadership, vision, and commitment to elevating others make her a standout force within the organization and the broader sports community.
Tiffanie Tallman
Director, Corporate Partnerships
Arizona Diamondbacks
Tiffanie is a true Woman of Inspiration whose 25-season journey with the Arizona Diamondbacks reflects both professional excellence and unwavering authenticity. Starting in the ticketing office, she has grown into one of the top sellers on the Corporate Partnerships team, driven by her deep industry knowledge, strategic negotiation skills, and genuine relationships. Beyond her achievements, Tiffanie is a trusted mentor, confidant, and culture-builder who leads with patience, integrity, and heart. Her impact is felt in every conversation, as she actively listens, supports others, and consistently delivers on her word. Tiffanie’s legacy is one of quiet strength, lasting influence, and remarkable leadership in the sports industry.
KT Thompson
Corporate Director of Event Operations
Gila River Resorts & Casinos
For over a decade, KT Thompson has consistently delivered exceptional events and hospitality experiences leading with professionalism, creativity, and a client-first mindset that has earned her lasting respect across the industry. Her strategic approach, attention to detail, and eye for aesthetics ensure every event is not only flawlessly executed but also thoughtfully curated with purpose and precision. What makes KT truly inspirational is how she uplifts others while excelling herself, mentoring teams with empathy, collaborating with grace, and creating environments where people thrive. KT’s passion for food, styling, travel, and community service adds depth to her work, blending creativity with genuine heart. KT is the definition of a Woman of Inspiration: leading with excellence, grace, and unwavering dedication to those she serves.
Laura Vazquez-Waddell
CEO & Founder
AZ Bachelorette Party & Muddle Fresh
Laura Vazquez exemplifies leadership, innovation, and resilience as the founder of two award-winning companies, AZ Bachelorette Party and Muddle Fresh, redefining how women celebrate life’s milestones. An immigrant who learned English in the third grade, she overcame cultural and language barriers to build a thriving business that empowers women through bold, inclusive, and joy-filled experiences. Laura’s signature concept, Bach Again™, gives women who missed their first bachelorette a chance to reclaim the moment
turning lost opportunities into meaningful celebrations. With 130+ five-star reviews and a growing footprint, her work extends beyond décor: she mentors other women, uplifts small businesses, and creates spaces where identity, confidence, and joy are honored. More than a businesswoman, Laura is a culture-shifter who inspires others to dream bigger and believe they are worthy of every celebration.
Robin Villareal
Chief Information Officer
Gila River Resorts & Casinos
Robin is a visionary leader who has transformed adversity into purpose, using every challenge she’s faced as fuel to create opportunity for others. Rather than giving up, she built platforms like the Glow Grow Game Conference, an intensive, three-day leadership experience focused on empowering women across the enterprise to grow personally and professionally. She leads with empathy, integrity, and bold innovation, modeling the kind of leadership that doesn’t just demand change, it embodies it. Robin’s unwavering commitment to lifting others, particularly within the Gila River community, is rooted in her belief that “when one of us rises, we all rise.” She is a true champion for women at every level, inspiring those around her to lead with purpose, rise with courage, and give others the space to do the same.
Melissa Wasson
General Manager
State Farm Stadium
Melissa has demonstrated exceptional leadership and longevity as one of the foundational members of the State Farm Stadium team since before its opening in 2006. As possibly the first female General Manager of an NFL stadium, promoted in 2024, she led the venue to its second highest revenue-generating year in her first year at the helm. Known for treating everyone like family, Melissa offers unwavering support to every team member and fosters a culture of inclusion and collaboration. She is on the board and serves as the Treasurer of Stadium Managers Association (SMA) and spearheaded the award-winning Employee Experience division, elevating workplace culture for staff and partners alike. Respected by peers across the industry, Melissa has been called upon to stabilize and standardize financial and operational processes at other venues, all while playing a pivotal role in bringing major events like multiple Super Bowls, NCAA Final Fours, international soccer matches, and concerts to the Valley. Her longevity, impact, and commitment exemplify true leadership in sports and events.