Mingle over coffee and pastries with professionals from the Middle East and explore solutions for thriving in arid environments.
Date: Thursday, September 25, 2025
Time: 8:30 - 10:00 am
Location: West Valley Arts Council | Arts HQ Gallery (16126 N Civic Center Plaza, Surprise, AZ 85374)
Admission: $10 (Coffee & pastries included)
Event Agenda
8:30 - 9:00 AM | Coffee & Mingling
9:00 AM | Speaking Program Begins
Opening Remarks – Kristin Allen, President & CEO, Global Ties Arizona
West Valley Arts HQ representative (TBD)
Special Remarks & Introduction of City Council Representative - Jeanine Jerkovic, Economic Development Director, City of Surprise
Official City Welcome - Chris Judd, Councilmember, City of Surprise
9:30 AM | Introduction of the IVLP Delegation
9:40 - 10:00 AM | Networking & Coffee Continues
10:00 AM | Event Concludes
Featured Speakers
Chris Judd
Councilmember, City of Surprise
Chris Judd was elected to represent District 6 on the Surprise City Council in 2018 and re-elected in 2022. He served as Vice Mayor in 2020 and again in 2023. His work on Council focuses on driving economic development, preserving open space, and improving quality of life through sustainable, responsible government. He currently serves on the Community Outreach, Partnerships & Grants Committee and the Audit Committee.
A native Arizonan and graduate of Arizona State University, Chris has lived and worked in Surprise for nearly 30 years. He spent over a decade as General Manager of a local manufacturing company and also owned and operated several small businesses in the West Valley. He previously served as President of the Rotary Club of Surprise, Chairman of Taste of Surprise, and continues to serve as Chairman of the Board for the White Tank Mountains Conservancy, where he leads efforts to preserve connectivity between the White Tanks and the surrounding habitat.
In addition to his council service, Chris is a Career and Technical Education instructor at West-MEC, where he is rebuilding and expanding the Water Systems program to prepare high school students for careers in water operations and environmental science. Reviving a previously inactive program, he is actively developing curriculum, building industry partnerships, and creating hands-on training opportunities that lead to certification and career readiness.
Chris and his wife Jenna have been married for over 20 years and are raising their three daughters in Surprise. The Judd family enjoys hiking, camping, and exploring Arizona’s backcountry together.
Jeanine Jerkovic, CEcD
Economic Development Director
Jeanine Jerkovic, CEcD, is an award-winning economic development leader with over 20 years of experience driving transformative growth in the Greater Phoenix area. Since 2014, she has served as Economic Development Director for the City of Surprise, where she spearheaded initiatives like launching the West Valley’s first business incubator, the AZ TechCelerator, and expanding it with the new Spark Surprise hub. Her efforts have attracted marquee investments, including a Costco, which kicked off the development of millions of square feet of retail development in an area of Surprise called the Village at Prasada, now the #1 performing retail power center in Arizona. A Certified Economic Developer with degrees from Arizona State University and the London School of Economics, Jeanine blends strategic vision with community passion, serving on national and regional boards and contributing locally through civic leadership and historic preservation.
About the Group
Desert Technologies Research and Development: This project makes America more prosperous by exploring mechanisms and opportunities for mutual investment through venture capital, government investment, and research and development in desert technologies. Participants will share best practices in creating profitable partnerships for startups and established industries in the U.S., the Middle East, and North Africa. Meetings, site visits, and activities will focus on cost effective desert agricultural techniques, water desalination, infrastructure development, efficient energy sources, and satellite technology.
About GTAZ Global Cafés
Global Cafés are dynamic gatherings designed to foster meaningful conversations on international topics in an informal and engaging setting. These events bring together community members, professionals, and global leaders to discuss pressing global issues, share diverse perspectives, and build cross-cultural connections. Whether exploring diplomacy, international business, global security, or cultural exchange, Global Cafés create a welcoming space for dialogue and networking. Join us for insightful discussions that bridge local and global communities, strengthening Arizona’s role in international engagement.
