Phoenix, AZ – Today, Governor Katie Hobbs announced that Jerry McPherson, longtime Phoenix community leader, will serve as the new Executive Director of the Commission of African American Affairs. The Commission plays an important role in serving the vibrant African American community in Arizona, including supporting economic advancement, promoting equality and justice, and providing educational tools and resources needed to thrive.

“I am thrilled to have Jerry McPherson as The Commission’s new Executive Director,” said Governor Katie Hobbs. “He has a strong track record of leadership in both the public and private sectors and has spent his career finding new and innovative ways to empower his community. I know Jerry’s breadth of experience and determination will unlock a bright future for The Commission and I look forward to seeing what they will accomplish together.”

"I am deeply honored and grateful to Governor Hobbs and our Commissioners for entrusting me with this critical responsibility,” said Jerry McPherson. “Our mission—to unite African American leaders and communities in the pursuit of opportunity and equity—has never been more urgent. I look forward to collaborating with our elected and appointed officials to transform our aspirations into lasting change. Through our pillars of Economic Development, Justice, Health, and Education, we can ensure that African-Americans throughout the state can embrace a future filled with promise and opportunity."

Jerry McPherson is a U.S. Army Veteran and graduate of the Flinn-Brown Fellowship. He has served in advisory roles for the cities of Phoenix and Tempe, and has experience leading some of Arizona’s most pivotal economic and community organizations including the Greater Phoenix Urban League and Valley of the Sun United Way. Jerry most recently served as a Commissioner on the Commission of African American Affairs and was Managing Director at Per Scholas Phoenix.