The Global Future of Southern Arizona: Building Connections for a More Globally Competitive Region
Arizona’s role in international exchange extends far beyond one city or region. As Global Ties Arizona expands its presence across the state, the organization is creating more opportunities for communities throughout Arizona to welcome international leaders, participate in global dialogue, and showcase the expertise, innovation, and leadership that make our state an important global partner.
On August 18, Global Ties Arizona hosted The Global Future of Southern Arizona, a leadership luncheon that brought together leaders from Tucson and across the region to discuss Southern Arizona’s growing role in the global economy. The conversation explored how international trade, cross-border collaboration, tribal leadership, economic development, and sustainable resource stewardship are shaping the region’s future.
The luncheon also provided an opportunity to identify the partnerships, expertise, and regional resources that can support the expansion of international exchange programming in Southern Arizona. By strengthening these connections, Global Ties Arizona can introduce more visiting leaders to the people and organizations driving progress throughout the region while creating new opportunities for Southern Arizona leaders to engage with international counterparts.
A Regional Conversation on Southern Arizona’s Future
The discussion was moderated by Nicole Barraza, Vice President of the Southern Arizona Leadership Council, and featured:
Daune Cardenas, Founder and CEO of the Pascua Yaqui Development Corporation
Dr. Sharon Megdal, Director of the University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center
Josh Rubin, Chairman of the Greater Nogales Santa Cruz County Port Authority
Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, Director of Pima County Economic Development
Together, the speakers shared perspectives on the partnerships, industries, communities, and resources that position Southern Arizona for greater global competitiveness and long-term prosperity. Their conversation demonstrated the value of bringing leaders from different sectors together to consider how the region can build upon its strengths and expand its international connections.
Expanding International Exchange Across Arizona
For more than 60 years, Global Ties Arizona has connected Arizona and the world through international exchange and community engagement. Expanding this work throughout the state allows the organization to share a more complete story of Arizona—one that reflects the strength of its border communities, tribal nations, universities, businesses, local governments, nonprofit organizations, and regional leaders.
When international visitors experience the full breadth of what Arizona has to offer, they return home with a deeper understanding of the state and lasting relationships with the people who make it exceptional. At the same time, Arizona leaders gain opportunities to exchange expertise, explore new partnerships, and contribute their perspectives to conversations of global importance.
The luncheon marked an important step in strengthening Global Ties Arizona’s presence in Southern Arizona and building the partnerships needed to bring more international engagement opportunities to the region. We are grateful to our speakers and everyone who participated in this important conversation as we continue working to connect all of Arizona with the world.
