Educare Arizona Selects Prominent Fundraiser, Campaign Manager for Top Development Role

Lisa Fernandez Named Chief Development Officer for Early Childhood Education Center

Educare Arizona, a Valley non-profit known for its transformational work in early childhood education, today announced Lisa Fernandez will assume the role of Chief Development Officer.

A leading fundraising professional and campaign consultant, Fernandez brings a critical skill set to Educare Arizona. With Fernandez at the helm, Educare Arizona will further strengthen its mission to provide the highest quality early childhood education to children and families in need.

Fernandez’s experience includes serving as Campaign Manager for Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton’s successful 2015 re-election campaign and for Phoenix Councilwoman Kate Gallego’s campaign in 2013. She also served as a fundraiser and consultant for Congressman Ruben Gallego and for the Arizona Democratic Party.

In her role as Chief Development Officer, Fernandez will continue to move the needle for Educare Arizona, helping to refine and expand its impact and influence. She will be responsible for supporting the Arizona non-profit’s fundraising and private philanthropic outreach, as well as marketing and communications efforts.

“We are very excited to welcome Lisa to Educare Arizona and believe she will be a tremendous asset to the organization,” said Christine Nowaczyk, Chair of Educare Arizona Board of Directors. “Her unique experience in fundraising and her extensive knowledge of the local community will help Educare Arizona expand its contribution to the families it serves.”

Educare Arizona is part of the Educare Learning Network, a collaboration between the Ounce of Prevention and the Buffett Early Childhood Fund. It is the only Educare facility in Arizona, but is one of over 20 facilities nationwide. Educare Arizona supports high-quality early childhood education programming for infants, toddlers and preschoolers, as well as integrated family support. An onsite healthcare facility, the Balsz Educare Arizona Center for Health, provides neighborhood dental, general, and mental health services.

“My search for a chance to challenge myself while having a positive impact on our community landed me at Educare,” Fernandez said. “After meeting the families and seeing the programs in action I can’t imagine a more meaningful opportunity to accomplish these goals. Educare Arizona is a life-changer for so many – I am thrilled to support its work.”