Author's Posts
Jun 01, 2017
A few years ago, I participated in a leadership development group and learned a unique way of looking at yourself through storytelling. The individual behind this concept, Marshall Ganz, is …
Steve Peru
Steve Peru is President/CEO of United Way of Northern Arizona, a position he has held since early 2015. In this position, Steve oversees United Way’s community impact and investment strategy for Coconino, Navajo and Apache counties. United Way administers programs and community investments to over 50 community organizations, including over 30 in the Flagstaff area.
Born and raised in Morenci, Arizona, Steve came to Flagstaff to attend Northern Arizona University where upon graduation Steve joined Coconino County and worked there for 32 years. During that time Steve worked in a variety of social service and job training programs then proceeded on management track within the County. Steve’s final assignment was serving as the Coconino County Manager. After retiring from Coconino County in 2011, Steve worked in the private sector for a few years before joining United Way of Northern Arizona in early 2015 to serve as its President and CEO.
Steve earned a B.S. in Sociology/Social Work and a Master’s in Public Administration, both from Northern Arizona University, and completed the Senior Executives in State and Local Government Program at Harvard University- Kennedy School of Government.
Steve is married to Beth Otterstein, they are blessed with two grown children and three beautiful granddaughters.
Steve’s past community involvement includes:
United Way of Northern Arizona – former board member
Flagstaff Medical Center – former board member
Arizona City/County Management Association – life member
International City/County Management Association – current member
Arizona Town Hall –former board member
A.S.U. School of Public Affairs – guest lecturer
Northern Arizona University – Alumni Association Board
Northern Arizona University – Institutional Review Board
Northern Arizona University – Higher Learning Commission on Re-accreditation
Goodwill Industries of Northern Arizona – former board member
Flagstaff Leadership Program – former participant, board member and current Advisory Board member
The Arizona We Want Institute- Gabe Zimmerman Public Service Awards – selection committee member
Arboretum at Flagstaff- current board member
Friends of Coconino County Parks – current board member