The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona announces the appointment of new CEO, Katia Jones
The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona (WFSA) proudly announces the appointment of Katia Jones as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective March 2024. With more than two decades of experience in development and donor relations, Katia brings exceptional leadership and commitment to her new role, having demonstrated her dedication since joining WFSA in June 2021.
Katia’s journey with WFSA began with her being a vital member of the Development team, where she swiftly ascended, showcasing her unwavering dedication to WFSA’s mission. Her recent promotion to CEO is a testament to her outstanding contributions and community-centered leadership.
In her previous role as Vice President of Community Mobilization, Katia distinguished herself through her commitment to transparency and her talent for cultivating genuine connections throughout Arizona. Her advocacy for community-centric fundraising within WFSA’s Giving Collective and broader networks has been instrumental in advancing the foundation’s impact statewide.
Katia holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Georgia and an MBA from the prestigious W.P. Carey School at Arizona State University. Beyond her professional pursuits, Katia is deeply engaged in community service, serving as a board member for the Arizona Justice Project and maintaining active membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Expressing their confidence in Katia’s ability to lead WFSA into its next chapter, Gabriela Cervantes, Chair of the WFSA Board, stated, “We are proud to have elevated a professional with all the skills we need to take the foundation to its next level. From development experience to a commitment to social justice and an ability to bring people of different backgrounds together, Katia is truly in a class of her own. We have been so impressed with her work and leadership that both the board and staff awarded unanimous support in naming Katia our next Chief Executive Officer.”
Katia expressed, “I have always desired to serve my community. I was raised and have been mentored and encouraged to lead and serve whenever possible. My promotion to Chief Executive Officer for The Women’s Foundation for the State of Arizona is an opportunity to lead as my authentic self while community building toward an Arizona where women and girls of all identities can thrive.”
Outside of her professional endeavors, Katia values spending quality time with her family, including her husband and two children. Whether exploring Arizona’s local hotspots, cheering on sports teams, or engaging in meaningful discussions with her live-in elders, Katia’s commitment to family and community shines through in every facet of her life.
As she assumes her new role, Katia remains dedicated to fostering transparency, building strong communities, and empowering individuals across Arizona. With this announcement, WFSA invites the community to meet Katia in person at the upcoming Daring Generations events which kicked off in Tucson and Phoenix in May 2024 and will continue into Flagstaff this summer and in Yuma in fall of 2024.
Learn more about this upcoming event series at womengiving.org/events.