Phoenix, AZ – Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona (BBBSAZ) is pleased to announce the appointment of Desirae Bennett Outcalt as the organization’s new Board Chair. A dedicated community leader and longtime advocate for mentorship, Desirae brings extensive professional experience, a passion for service, and a commitment to creating brighter futures for young people throughout Central Arizona.
As Board Chair, Desirae will help guide BBBSAZ’s strategic vision, strengthen community partnerships, and support the organization’s mission to create and sustain meaningful one-to-one mentoring relationships that ignite the power and promise of youth.
“Desirae’s leadership, passion for mentorship, and commitment to our community make her an incredible asset to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona,” said Debbie Castillo-Smith, President & CEO of BBBSAZ. “Her dedication to empowering young people and building stronger communities reflects the values at the heart of our mission. We are excited for the impact she will make as Board Chair.”
Professionally, Desirae serves as a Vice President and Commercial Banker, partnering with businesses to develop strategic banking and treasury management solutions that support growth and long-term success. With more than 25 years of experience in financial services, she has built a career centered on cultivating trusted relationships, leading high-performing teams, and helping organizations navigate complex financial needs.
Desirae’s passion for service extends beyond her professional career. Through her leadership with BBBSAZ, she is focused on expanding opportunities for youth, strengthening community connections, and ensuring more children have access to the transformative impact of mentorship. She believes that one caring, consistent adult can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.
Originally from Tacoma, Washington, Desirae’s personal journey has shaped her commitment to helping others overcome challenges and reach their full potential. She is passionate about servant leadership, mentoring emerging leaders, and supporting organizations that create meaningful change across Arizona.
Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Desirae enjoys creating handcrafted projects, spending time with family and friends, and exploring Arizona’s vibrant community and sporting events.
Alongside Desirae’s leadership as Board Chair, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona is grateful for the continued commitment and service of its Board of Directors. Together, this group of community leaders provides guidance, advocacy, and support to advance the organization’s mission and expand the reach of life-changing mentorship opportunities for youth across Central Arizona.
The Fiscal Year [2026–2027] Board of Directors includes:
Board Chair
Desirae Bennett Outcalt, VP Commercial Banking Officer, Southwest Heritage Bank
Vice Chair
Andrew Semple, Community Volunteer
Treasurer
Bryan Long, Chief Financial Officer, ASO
Board Members
Bob Aggarwal, Senior Vice President Commercial Banker, Western Alliance Bank
Christopher C.J. Anderson, Director of Internal Audit, Leslie’s
Nicholas “Nick” Araujo, HR, Amazon
Kari Brill, Executive Director, Media & Management, Riester
Justin Carlson, Realtor, Commercial Investment Advisors
Christopher Dang, Partner, Quarles & Brady LLC
Nick Foster, Accountant, Foster Financial CPA
Karah Gagnon, SVP, Relationship Manager Team Lead, Enterprise Bank & Trust
Jennifer Holsman Tetreault, VP & Associate General Counsel, TPI Composites, Inc.
David Jackson, Partner, Lewis Roca
Dr. Sarah James, MD Doctor, Provider, Mayo Clinic Arizona
James “Jim” Johnston, Sales, Apex Systems
Sarkes Mkrdichian, CEO, TechBros
Madeline Moran, Senior Audit Manager, Eide Bailly LLP
Geoffrey Nail, Senior Account Manager, Northern Trust
Jen Rogers, Vice President, Property & Casualty, USI Insurance Services
Kelly Ruud, CFO, CopperPoint Insurance Companies
Cory Steinbicker, Consultant, Riveron Consulting LLC
Michael Thorley, Govt, State of Arizona
Brittany Truszkowski, Management Admin, Grand Canyon Law Group
Amy Walters, Community Volunteer, City of Hope
Dr. Vashi Worley-Moore, Career Services Specialist Senior, Glendale Community College
BBBSAZ thanks each board member for their dedication, leadership, and commitment to creating brighter futures for children and families in our community.