The Chamber of Southern Arizona today announces that Alison Flynn Gaffney, CEO, Banner – University Medicine Tucson, will become Chair of The Chamber’s Board of Directors starting July 1, 2026.
Alison oversees more than 8,000 employees at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson and Banner – University Medical Center South, as well as Diamond Children’s Medical Center and 28 clinics in Tucson and surrounding communities. The hospitals and services under her purview have received numerous accolades, including US News & World Report naming Banner – University Medical Center Tucson the #4 hospital in Arizona and #1 hospital in Tucson for the second consecutive year.
“Susan Gray did a tremendous job, and I am excited to continue the momentum she helped build. The Chamber is a strong organization, and I look forward to contributing to its mission to help our communities and businesses flourish,” Alison said.
“I am immensely proud of the work over the last two years. With The Chamber of Southern Arizona, we have created a new powerhouse organization driving sustainable economic growth and job creation by uniting business advocacy and economic development strategies to foster a thriving business ecosystem,” said current Chair of the Board Susan Gray, CEO, Tucson Electric Power. “I am honored to turn the reins over to a very capable and distinguished community leader of Alison’s stature. I know Alison’s leadership will take us even further.”
“We’re excited to welcome Alison as Chair. We’re at a critical juncture where regionalism, competitiveness and leveraging our region’s strengths for economic development success are top focus areas. Her perspective and leadership will be valuable,” said Joe Snell, president & CEO, The Chamber of Southern Arizona. “We also thank Susan Gray for her incredible guidance and stewardship through the merger of Sun Corridor Inc. and the Tucson Metro Chamber last year.”
The Chamber also announces the following new Board of Directors members:
- Jose Arias, Vice President, Business Banking, First Citizens Bank
- Marco Melancon, General Manager, Bombardier Aviation Tucson Service Center
- General Robin Rand (ret), President & CEO, Kyl Institute for National Security
The Chamber of Southern Arizona convenes the region’s top leadership to ensure our competitiveness and address our future economy. Representing 85,000 employees, key leaders from the private sector, governments, nonprofits and academia market the region as a business center and lead the region’s efforts on advocacy and public policy.
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Laura Shaw, Chief Communications Officer
(520) 609-5972 or lshaw@thechambersoaz.com
