PHOENIX (STN) — That’s a wrap on Season 3 of ‘It Happens at STN.’
In the powerful season finale, leaders from across Arizona gathered to share actionable insights on leadership, community impact, and the power of inclusive solutions.
The episode opened with UMOM’s Jackson Fonder and Monique Lopez discussing succession planning and leadership development. Their candid conversation underscored the importance of preparing future leaders now rather than waiting until it’s too late. Lopez’s promotion to deputy CEO highlighted how intentional investment in people pays off in real organizational resilience.
Next, the spotlight turned to affordable housing with UMOM’s La Esperanza community — a shining example of how thoughtful design and strong partnerships can provide dignity and hope to families in need.
In the final installment of ‘In the Room’ for the season, Vince Kozar, president of the Phoenix Mercury, shared his inspiring journey from intern to executive. He emphasized mentorship, allyship, and the importance of creating space for others at the table.
In a year of change for the organization, leaders from OneAZ Credit Union joined the show to talk about the importance of embracing a growth mindset and daring to stand out. Their rebrand story encouraged organizations to be bold, authentic, and driven by purpose from the inside out.
The McQuaid Mission segment brought the focus to homelessness and housing solutions, highlighting the vital role of lived experience in designing effective services. Joined by Keys to Change CEO Amy Schwabenlender, Keys to Change regional outreach manager Charles Schmiedeke, and Chaelee Chavez from the ASU Action Nexus, they shared how including client voices and supporting staff with lived experience builds trust and delivers more impactful outcomes.
Plus, a pair of powerful women, Girl Scout alum Samantha Shockness and Arizona Financial Foundation Executive Director Rachel Galvez, shared their thoughts on the importance of mentorship in leadership.
As has been the case throughout the season, a common thread emerged in the finale: creating real change requires vulnerability, intentional leadership, and true collaboration.
After a break in August, ‘It Happens at STN’ will return in September with the premiere of Season 4.
Watch ‘It Happens at STN’ Episode 10, Season 3:
Here are the highlights from the July 2025 episode
5:49-16:43
Why succession planning is an absolute necessity
UMOM’s Jackson Fonder and Monique Lopez share why succession planning is vital for organizational stability. By investing in leadership growth and prioritizing mission over ego, they show how nonprofits can prepare for the future while celebrating present-day milestones.
16:44-19:39
Breaking stigmas with high-quality, affordable homes
UMOM’s La Esperanza project provides 96 high-quality affordable homes designed to restore dignity and stability to families. Through strong partnerships and innovative thinking, this community demonstrates what’s possible when housing is built on hope and connection.
22:32-25:48
Rachel Galvez leads with heart and community
Rachel Galvez, Executive Director of Arizona Financial Foundation, opened up about her journey from humble beginnings to community leadership. Through authentic connections and empathy, she inspires others to lead with heart and create meaningful change.
26:06-35:52
From intern to team President
Phoenix Mercury president Vince Kozar highlights his journey from intern to executive, the mentors who helped shape him, and the powerful community impact of supporting young women and fostering allyship through sports.
36:16-38:40
How Girl Scouts shaped Samantha Shockness into a leader
Girl Scout alum Samantha Shockness shares her journey from young troop member to confident leader. Through mentorship, community, and lifelong support, she shows how Girl Scouts help shape strong, empowered women ready to make an impact.
38:52-43:44
OneAZ dared to be different and the change is impacting the community
OneAZ leaders Emily Call and Monica Meyerand reveal how embracing change and adopting a growth mindset sparked an innovative rebrand, strengthened internal culture, and empowered their team to better serve and inspire the community.
46:12-49:32
How collaboration builds brighter futures for kids
Mercy Care and Southwest Human Development highlight the power of partnership in supporting Arizona families, from fun community events to vital NICU transition programs — building strong foundations for children and fostering healthy, thriving communities.
49:33-1:01:49
Building solutions with those who’ve been there
A McQuaid Mission panel discussion exploring how centering lived experience transforms homeless outreach, builds trust, and creates tailored solutions. Leaders share how openness to feedback and including clients as partners are essential to truly ending homelessness.
