Briana Clark Joins Valley Leadership

Valley Leadership is excited to welcome Briana Clark as our new Director of Strategic Initiatives! A proud Arizona native, Briana brings a wealth of experience from her background in education and the nonprofit sector, having taught K-8 students in Phoenix and worked passionately to support youth development.

In her new role, Briana aims to address key challenges in education and child well-being across Arizona, while raising awareness about the progress our state has made. We are thrilled to have her on board and look forward to the impact she will make in empowering communities and creating equal opportunities for all Arizona students!

VL: Can you tell the Valley Leadership community a little about yourself?

BC: I’m a proud native Arizonan with a Bachelor’s in Education and a Master’s in Educational Policy, both from Arizona State University—Go Sun Devils! Growing up surrounded by family members who were teachers, I developed a deep love for teaching and learning. For seven fantastic years, I taught K-8 students at Title I schools throughout Phoenix, where I discovered the joy of helping students overcome challenges and achieve their potential. 

Inspired to make a broader impact, I transitioned into the nonprofit sector, starting as a volunteer mentor with New Pathways for Youth. I was so passionate about the organization’s mission that I eagerly joined their staff, spending the next six years helping to expand their reach and impact. Currently, I mentor two amazing young ladies and advocate strongly for the power of mentorship. My personal mission is to ensure every student has access to equal opportunities and can reach their full potential. In my free time, I enjoy hiking in the beautiful Arizona desert, quilting, being around animals, and cheering for ASU sports! 

VL: What is a goal you hope to accomplish through your role as the Director of Strategic Initiatives at VL?

BC: As the Director of Strategic Initiatives at Valley Leadership, one of my primary goals is to build on the incredible work that the Impact Teams and Valley Leadership have already begun. I’m excited to dive in, collaborate closely with our teams, and provide the support needed to further these efforts.

A key goal I hope to accomplish is to raise awareness of the critical issues facing education and child well-being in Arizona, while also highlighting the positive progress we are making as a state. For example, although Arizona’s high school graduation rate is 8% lower than the national average, we have seen significant gains over the past decade in supporting students to obtain their diplomas. By sharing these successes and addressing challenges like childhood food insecurity and chronic absenteeism, I hope to inspire others to take action and invest in solutions that ensure every child in Arizona has the opportunity to thrive. Through strategic initiatives, we can empower communities to support our state’s children and build a brighter future for all.

VL: What pressing issue in Arizona are you most excited to address?

BC: Education is a vital issue in Arizona because it shapes the future of our communities and creates opportunities for all. As a former teacher, I have seen firsthand the transformative power of education. I’ve watched students who felt disconnected from school light up when they finally connected with a topic or felt seen and supported. These moments underscore the importance of regular attendance, as every day in the classroom offers a chance to learn, grow, and build essential skills. Addressing challenges like funding disparities and teacher shortages is crucial so that all Arizona students can stay engaged, reach their full potential, and contribute to a brighter future for our state.

VL: What Principle of Doing do you resonate with most right now?

BC: Integrity is important to me because it is the foundation of authentic leadership and respectful collaboration. Leading with integrity means engaging with diverse perspectives, and I am eager to work with Valley Leaders who bring a multitude of viewpoints. Integrity also involves valuing facts, critical thinking, and being open to examining my biases. As an avid reader and lifelong learner, I aim to embody integrity by acknowledging that I may not always have the answers and staying committed to continuous learning and curiosity.

VL: What do you love most about living, working, and playing in Arizona?

BC: What I love most about Arizona is the incredible diversity of its landscape and the endless opportunities for adventure. Being a native Arizonan, I’ve had the pleasure of exploring so much of what this beautiful state has to offer. From breathtaking hiking spots in the fall and spring to the cool, refreshing forests in the summer, Arizona provides the perfect backdrop for year-round outdoor activities. 

I love discovering new places, whether it’s taking a spontaneous day trip to explore a hidden gem just outside of Phoenix or revisiting favorite trails. There’s always something new to see and experience. Arizona is truly a paradise for anyone who enjoys being outdoors, connecting with nature, and embracing the beauty of the Southwest.