“Arizona needs more leaders like Kristen! Passionate, driven, collaborative, conscientious - her tireless work with & advocacy for nonprofits is having a tremendous, measurable impact. Kristen's influence is appreciated and she has my highest recommendation.”
About
I am a leader skilled at bridging the gap between sectors, with a proven record in…
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I'm happy to share that Joanna Yang Yowler, Ph.D., has joined the Flinn Foundation as our new program manager for translational biosciences and…
I'm happy to share that Joanna Yang Yowler, Ph.D., has joined the Flinn Foundation as our new program manager for translational biosciences and…
Liked by Kristen Wilson, CAE, CNAP
Experience
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Education
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Summa cum laude
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Attended the week-long Association Management Week in D.C., earning my Certificate in Association Management from the American Society of Association Executives
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Licenses & Certifications
Volunteer Experience
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Treasurer, Board of Directors
Gabriel's Angels
- 2 years 1 month
Children
Gabriel's Angels is the only program in Arizona that delivers healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children. Our short term goal is to instill in children an overall emotional sense of well-being, safety and happiness. Long term aspiration is to help children learn core social skills that will prevent them from continuing the cycle of violence as adults.
Presently we provide pet therapy services to over 118 agencies and serve 13,700 children annually through nearly 175…Gabriel's Angels is the only program in Arizona that delivers healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children. Our short term goal is to instill in children an overall emotional sense of well-being, safety and happiness. Long term aspiration is to help children learn core social skills that will prevent them from continuing the cycle of violence as adults.
Presently we provide pet therapy services to over 118 agencies and serve 13,700 children annually through nearly 175 Pet Therapy Teams. Our services are provided free of charge to the agency and the children. Gabriel's Angels pet therapy services are provided by volunteer Pet Therapy Teams, usually consisting of a companion dog and owner. Teams visit each participating agency on a consistent schedule to build trust, empathy and respect in the children. -
Past President, Board of Directors
Arizona Society of Association Executives
- 4 years 1 month
Economic Empowerment
Secretary - 2014
President-Elect - 2015
President - 2016
Past President - 2017
The Arizona Society of Association Executives is the nonprofit membership organization for professionals engaged in the management of trade, professional, technical and charitable organizations in Arizona. -
Board Member
Arizona @ Work: Maricopa County
- 1 year 1 month
Economic Empowerment
(Formerly Phoenix Workforce Connection)
The Phoenix Business and Workforce Development Board (PBWDB) a local workforce development board, approved by the State of Arizona and charged with providing strategic guidance and direction for federal, state, and local workforce development funds and programs. The PBWDB oversees a network of public and private partners, to coordinate a cohesive strategy for talent development within the city. -
Public Policy Commttee Member
ASAE: The Center for Association Leadership
- 1 year 1 month
Economic Empowerment
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Operation Uplift Committee Member
Valley of the Sun United Way
- 1 year 1 month
Social Services
Operation Uplift is an initiative that builds on VSUW's annual Day of Action events in which theyengage thousands of volunteers throughout Maricopa County. The Organizing Committee is comprised of community members, business partners, agency partners and internal United Way staff to co-create engagement activities which create impact in our community. Our vision is to inspire a community wide movement that unites thousands of community members from all sectors though civic engagement…
Operation Uplift is an initiative that builds on VSUW's annual Day of Action events in which theyengage thousands of volunteers throughout Maricopa County. The Organizing Committee is comprised of community members, business partners, agency partners and internal United Way staff to co-create engagement activities which create impact in our community. Our vision is to inspire a community wide movement that unites thousands of community members from all sectors though civic engagement, volunteerism and meaningful connections that will transform Maricopa County into a community of action.
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Pet Therapy Team
Gabriel's Angels
- 2 years 1 month
Children
Pet therapy team with my Yorkie, Snickers, visiting group homes to provide healing pet therapy to abused, neglected and at-risk children living in foster care.
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Board Member
Arizona Small Dog Rescue
- 7 months
Animal Welfare
At Arizona Small Dog Rescue, we’re proud to be a nonprofit, no-kill dog rescue shelter in Phoenix. We’re a team of passionate volunteers and staff committed to saving the lives of small dogs across the Valley.
We take in owner surrenders, small dogs, large or small breed puppies, moms and pups, and save countless dogs from kill shelters and overcrowded organizations. Our team also helps find forever homes for our sheltered animals, and facilitates fostering, volunteering, and handles…At Arizona Small Dog Rescue, we’re proud to be a nonprofit, no-kill dog rescue shelter in Phoenix. We’re a team of passionate volunteers and staff committed to saving the lives of small dogs across the Valley.
We take in owner surrenders, small dogs, large or small breed puppies, moms and pups, and save countless dogs from kill shelters and overcrowded organizations. Our team also helps find forever homes for our sheltered animals, and facilitates fostering, volunteering, and handles many different veterinarian services for the dogs in our care.
Honors & Awards
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Leaders of the Year
Arizona Capitol Times
Each year, the Arizona Capitol Times recognizes leaders that have contributed to the growth of our state. These are the people and groups that hunker down each day to find ways to improve the quality of life of Arizona’s citizens.
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ATHENA HAIL Recipient of Building Relationships
ATHENA Valley of the Sun
ATHENA Valley of the Sun fosters the stories of the amazing Arizona women making a difference in our community. Each year, the Awards event will feature groundbreaking women in our community who lead using the ATHENA® Leadership Principles.
The ATHENA® Leadership Award was inspired by ATHENA, goddess of Greek mythology known for her strength, courage, wisdom and enlightenment. ATHENA Valley of the Sun HONORING ATHENA INSPIRED LEADERS (HAIL) Award focuses on the ATHENA Leadership…ATHENA Valley of the Sun fosters the stories of the amazing Arizona women making a difference in our community. Each year, the Awards event will feature groundbreaking women in our community who lead using the ATHENA® Leadership Principles.
The ATHENA® Leadership Award was inspired by ATHENA, goddess of Greek mythology known for her strength, courage, wisdom and enlightenment. ATHENA Valley of the Sun HONORING ATHENA INSPIRED LEADERS (HAIL) Award focuses on the ATHENA Leadership Principles in order to create awareness of the strength of women leaders who embody them. The principles that we will be highlighting are: Live Authentically, Learn Constantly, Build Relationships, Foster Collaboration, Advocate Fiercely, and Act Courageously. -
ATHENA Awards Nominee - Public Sector
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
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40 Under 40
Connect Associations Magazine
Kristen Merrifield, CAE, CNAP, CEO of Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits, was recognized as a member of Connect Association magazine’s “40 Under 40.” The honor highlights the top young professionals in the events industry. Connect Association is a national, B2B magazine that provides resources and ideas to professionals and planners in the meetings and events industry. Peers in the events world nominated Merrifield. Nominations were received from across the country, then reviewed and evaluated by…
Kristen Merrifield, CAE, CNAP, CEO of Alliance of Arizona Nonprofits, was recognized as a member of Connect Association magazine’s “40 Under 40.” The honor highlights the top young professionals in the events industry. Connect Association is a national, B2B magazine that provides resources and ideas to professionals and planners in the meetings and events industry. Peers in the events world nominated Merrifield. Nominations were received from across the country, then reviewed and evaluated by the Connect staff based on references, industry involvement and other resources.
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Executive of the Year
AzSAE - Arizona Society of Association Executives
The Executive of the Year is the highest recognition given by the Arizona Society of Association Executives (AzSAE) to the Chief Staff Executive of an association in Arizona. Respected leaders of their own associations, the recipients are women and men who contribute their time and expertise to other voluntary membership organizations, play an active role in civic and community affairs, and serve other affiliate associations. In short, they exemplify the very best in association management…
The Executive of the Year is the highest recognition given by the Arizona Society of Association Executives (AzSAE) to the Chief Staff Executive of an association in Arizona. Respected leaders of their own associations, the recipients are women and men who contribute their time and expertise to other voluntary membership organizations, play an active role in civic and community affairs, and serve other affiliate associations. In short, they exemplify the very best in association management, continually bringing credit to the profession and to the entire association community. This annual award is presented at the AzSAE Holiday Gala.
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2018 Women of Achievement
Greater Phoenix In Business Magazine
Achieving goals is how businesses succeed, and our community has grown from layers of success built upon other layers of success. Powering this is the commitment of those who “can” to help others also succeed — proving the truth of the adage, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Each of our 2018 Women of Achievement has proven her involvement in our business community and her connection to doing good for our community, and has demonstrated great success in business. Their varied strengths are part…
Achieving goals is how businesses succeed, and our community has grown from layers of success built upon other layers of success. Powering this is the commitment of those who “can” to help others also succeed — proving the truth of the adage, “A rising tide lifts all boats.” Each of our 2018 Women of Achievement has proven her involvement in our business community and her connection to doing good for our community, and has demonstrated great success in business. Their varied strengths are part of the mesh that binds and supports the greater community and attests to the collective achievement of women in business.
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AZ Business Leader
AZ Big Media
Term used to describe an industry insider, someone who is familiar with other individuals and groups and is able to exert influence or make decisions. AZ Business Leaders is a major annual business-to-business publication that combines the who’s who of Arizona business community with their valuable leadership advice and knowledge.
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AZ Business Leader
AZ Big Media
Term used to describe an industry insider, someone who is familiar with other individuals and groups and is able to exert influence or make decisions. AZ Business Leaders is a major annual business-to-business publication that combines the who’s who of Arizona business community with their valuable leadership advice and knowledge.
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AzSAE Member of the Year
Arizona Society of Association Executives
AzSAE is the Arizona Society of Association Professionals, a professional association serving the association sector in Arizona through education, networking and resources.
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ATHENA Award Nominee
Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce
Recommendations received
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Lauren E. McGowan
❗ ❗ ❗ Important Call to Action: Help Restore Funding for Free Tax Preparation! Families across Seattle are facing rising costs of housing, food, and basic essentials, and many are struggling to make ends meet. Over the last twenty years, I have seen that free tax preparation services are a critical lifeline, ensuring families don’t miss out on vital tax credits like the Earned Income Tax Credit. These services put money back into the pockets of hardworking people and bring additional public and private dollars into our community. Without this funding, thousands of families could lose access to these crucial resources, leaving millions of dollars unclaimed. At a time when so many are feeling the financial strain, we cannot afford to let that happen. I’m joining my friends and former colleagues at United Way of King County urging the City of Seattle City Council to restore this funding and support our neighbors. Sign the letter today and help us fight for a stronger, more equitable Seattle! Let’s make sure every family has access to the resources they need to thrive. #budget #Seattle #TaxPrep #EconomicStability #vita
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Danny Brister Jr.
New Friends, Honoring Elders, and Persevering Together I can't believe the final day of the Christian Community Development Association (CCDA) in Portland has already come and gone. It’s been an incredible few days of community, inspiration, and deep reflection. One of the biggest takeaways for me is the importance of pastoring and shepherding—true pastoral care beyond just building platforms and gaining followers. As Christian leaders, our communities need us to be present, loving, and actively invested in their lives. The beauty of CCDA (Christian Community Development Association) is its support for those called to serve in the margins, with people society may have left behind. I've witnessed firsthand how necessary it is to nurture these reformers, many of whom often find themselves without a traditional church to lean on. A special moment was when we honored our elders in this movement. Seeing Tracy Hipps, who's been leading for over 35 years, receive recognition was a powerful reminder of the deep, consistent dedication that is required for transformation. Leaders like Tracy have been instrumental in bridging communities and have inspired so many of us to continue striving for justice and hope. Lastly, I attended a workshop by Bruce and Helen Strom from Administer Justice on sustaining health in ministry, inspired by Bruce’s book Persevering Power. It was a timely encouragement for me and others juggling family, ministry, and personal well-being. If you need some inspiration for when life feels overwhelming, I highly recommend picking up this book. To my fellow leaders—whether you're nurturing communities or navigating change—stay steadfast. The work is challenging, but it's essential. #CCDA #CommunityDevelopment #Leadership #PastoralCare #WellBeing #Perseverance https://lnkd.in/etQEW2Jd
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YoloWorks Employment and Business Services
ATTENTION YOLO COUNTY EMPLOYERS! ATTENTION YOLO COUNTY EMPLOYERS! Join the free webinar in partnership with the CEA - California Employers Association on September 25th from 10AM-11AM for important information on Recruiting, Hiring, and Employing Minors. Please feel free to share and distribute this information to others! We hope to see you then! Does your organization employ minors? Whether you are in an industry that has always employed minors or this is your first time doing so, you need to be aware of certain legal obligations to help you stay out of trouble. This one-hour webinar will cover the hiring process and look at State and Federal requirements when employing anyone under the age of 18. We will discuss: • Recruiting and the application process • Interviewing and onboarding • Reasons to hire minors • The work permit process • Training requirements when employing minors • And more! Register using the link below: https://lnkd.in/g6Wnrw-4 Sponsored by: • Yolo County WiB • Approved for 1 HRCI Credit. The use of this seal confirms that this activity has met HR Certification Institute’s (HRCI) criteria for recertification pre-approval. • Approved for 1 SHRM Credit. CEA is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDCs) for the SHRM-CPSM or SHRM-SCP. For more information about certification or recertification, please visit shrmcertification.org See you there! #yolocounty #woodland #freewebinar #yolocountyemployers #californiaemployersassociation #employeerights2024 #handbook #communicatelikealeader #training #yolocountyWIB #WorkforceInnovationBoard #recruiting #employingminors #virtualtraining
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Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program
On June 25, the Indian Nations Gaming & Governance Program invites you to a free webinar where experts and experienced professionals discuss how tribal entrepreneurs are developing successful reservation business enterprises, catalyzing and diversifying tribal economies, increasing tribal government capacity, and driving transformation in their communities. This webinar has been approved for one (1) Nevada MCLE general credit. Register using the link below to join the conversation about trends in tribal entrepreneurship and learn about practical tips, tools, and techniques to build successful businesses and drive enterprise and innovation in reservation communities. https://lnkd.in/g553UxKi
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Rod Love
5 most surprising results from Orange County's $100M youth services investment Since 2018, Orange County Government has appropriated $20M/year for youth and family services. To date, approximately $100 million has been invested. Here’s what this funding has achieved: 𝟭. 𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗵 𝗨𝗻𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗼𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 -More job opportunities for youth mean stronger communities. -Unemployment among youth has notably decreased. -A thriving job market means a more prosperous local economy. 𝟮. 𝗜𝗺𝗽𝗿𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀 -Education is the foundation for future success. -Graduation rates have seen a positive increase in funded areas. -Better-educated youth lead to a more skilled workforce. 𝟯. 𝗘𝗻𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗙𝗶𝘁𝗻𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 -Sports and fitness are crucial for overall well-being. -Access to sports and fitness programs has significantly improved. -Increased participation in physical activities with better support systems. 𝟰. 𝗜𝗻𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗘𝗻𝗴𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 -Stronger community ties create a supportive environment. -Participation in community programs has doubled. -More engaged citizens contribute to a safer, more cohesive community. 𝟱. 𝗥𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗶𝗻 𝗝𝘂𝘃𝗲𝗻𝗶𝗹𝗲 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀 -Safer communities are beneficial for everyone. -Juvenile crime rates have decreased significantly. -Lower crime rates lead to a safer living environment. How has this been possible? Florida Economic Consortium (FEC) and CSG Tech Solutions have ensured the efficient use of taxpayer dollars through their CPAS software portal. CPAS (Contract Performance Analysis System): ⟶Provides accurate, up-to-date information, eliminating data lag. ⟶Ensures transparency and accountability, reducing administrative burden. ⟶Maximizes the impact of available funds, preventing resource wastage. CPAS provides real-time, efficient, and accountable management of government funds. Follow me for more insights on community development. Rod Love, CEO of CSG Tech Solutions President of Florida Economic Consortium
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