Center for the Future of Arizona Appoints Two New Board Members

Center for the Future of Arizona (CFA), a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization committed to bringing Arizonans together to create a stronger and brighter future for the state, has expanded its Board of Directors with the addition of two new members. Lori Higuera, Assistant General Counsel for Freeport-McMoRan, Inc., and Dan Costello, Executive Vice President and Chief Revenue Officer, Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury, joined the board earlier this month.

“It is very exciting to welcome new board members, knowing they hold not only industry knowledge and expertise but a passion for and commitment to creating a stronger and brighter future for Arizona,” said Dr. Sybil Francis, CFA’s Chair, President & CEO. “Lori and Dan both bring perspectives that are crucial assets for the CFA board and leadership team in continuing our efforts to advance the long-term future success of our state.”

The two join an accomplished board that includes a diversity of state leaders across a variety of industries and social service organizations, from healthcare to education and beyond.

Dan Costello has been with the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury for 18 seasons and during his tenure, the team has set franchise records for revenue and has been recognized by the NBA as a Changemaker, winning the league award in 2019 and 2022 for the creation of partnerships that shape the industry. In his role with the organization, he oversees all revenue generation departments, including ticket sales and service and global partnerships. He also oversees business intelligence and strategy, broadcast media and the Phoenix Suns and Phoenix Mercury’s interest in the Legends Entertainment District.

"I am incredibly excited and honored to join the board of such a distinguished organization,” said Costello. “It’s a tremendous honor to have the opportunity to collaborate with fellow board members and contribute to our shared vision of making a meaningful impact and inspiring positive change across Arizona.”

Lori Higuera has served as assistant general counsel at Freeport-McMoRan, with a focus on employment, since 2015. Prior to joining Freeport-McMoRan, she focused on employment and labor law at the firm Fennemore. A University of Chicago Law School grad, she is an active community leader, having recently served on the board of governors for the State Bar of Arizona, the board of directors for the Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the steering committee for the Valley of the Sun United Way’s Women’s Leadership Council and the Children and Youth Advisory Board for the Valley of the Sun United Way. She currently serves on the board of trustees for the Desert Botanical Garden and Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust.

I’m honored to be invited to join CFA's board. The Center plays an integral role in working with community partners to build and maintain an Arizona where every individual has the opportunity to thrive. I look forward to working with the board to further this important work," said Higuera.