Team

Laurie joined the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits following its merger with Arizona Grantmakers Forum in 2022. As chief public policy officer, she is responsible for developing and executing the Alliance’s public policy agenda and engagement strategy. An active member of the senior leadership team, Laurie leads Arizona Grantmakers Forum, bringing vision and strategic thinking to advance its full integration with the Alliance. 

Laurie was president and CEO of Arizona Grantmakers Forum for seven years, providing strategic leadership and creating and sustaining relationships with aligned philanthropic, nonprofit and community partners. Before joining Arizona Grantmakers in 2015, Laurie worked to improve policy outcomes for Arizonans for more than 25 years. She began her career as a research analyst for the Arizona House of Representatives before joining the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association, where she served as senior vice president of public affairs and as president and CEO, among other roles. In 2014, Laurie was a Washington, D.C. correspondent for Cronkite News, producing more than 30 stories covering politics, immigration and Indian affairs for Arizona news media outlets.

Laurie has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Mass Communication degree from Arizona State University’s Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. She serves on the United Philanthropy Forum board of directors and co-chairs its Public Policy Committee. 

A native of the Southwest, Laurie grew up in Tempe, Arizona. 

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Erin Owen serves as the Director of Member Engagement & Education of Arizona Grantmakers Forum and supports Arizona philanthropy professionals through thoughtfully crafted learning opportunities and member engagement and outreach. She works closely with affinity groups and community leaders to create highly-rated educational programs and enhance member value. Erin plays an essential role in empowering members, raising the voice of Arizona philanthropy and growing the Arizona Grantmakers Forum network. 

Erin is a native Arizonan and has a deep knowledge of Arizona philanthropy from her background in fundraising, events and community engagement. Prior to her role at Arizona Grantmakers Forum, Erin spent several years at local nonprofit organizations, where she played a key role in developing youth philanthropy, third-party fundraising and annual giving programs.

Erin is a Valley Leadership Accelerate alumna and has a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Arizona State University. Erin is passionate about the nonprofit and philanthropic sectors and reversing the power dynamic between funders and nonprofits.

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Lilly is a digital storyteller and data nerd who oversees communications and operations while driving member engagement through logistical programs and internal operational support. She develops and implements Arizona Grantmakers' communications plan, serves as a key contact for all current and prospective members and supports committees and affinity groups.  Lilly also champions the operations work of the Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits + Arizona Grantmakers Forum. She holds a bachelor's degree in Nonprofit Leadership and Management from the School of Community Resources and Development at Arizona State University.

Prior to joining the Alliance + Arizona Grantmakers team, Lilly served as a marketing and communications manager, working closely with internal and external clients and stakeholders to advance the organization's mission - leading all box office, communication and marketing efforts including website design, social media, newsletters, bulk mailing, and front-of-house production for concerts and events. She also recently focused on building brand recognition and engagement as a freelancing social media manager consultant for True Colors International global training company and The Garden of Voices Theatre Podcast based in New York. 

Lilly's volunteer experience spurred her passion for the social sector, advocacy and innovative collaboration. Her engagement with America Reads, Local First, Rainbow Fest, Phoenix Pride and Rock the Vote continues to foster community connections. Lilly is thrilled to join the Alliance + Arizona Grantmakers Forum team during this exciting time of development and transition, where her skills will be utilized as the new organization emerges. 

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