Global Ties Arizona President & CEO to Step Down after Nearly Six Years of Leadership

Global Ties Arizona announces that President and CEO Kristin Allen will step down after nearly six years of leadership to become the next President and CEO of WESTMARC. Her tenure has marked a transformative period for the organization, strengthening its capacity, expanding its programming, and connecting more Arizonans with the world.

Allen took the helm in 2021 amid the COVID-19 pandemic, guiding the organization through disruption to international exchange while developing new programs and partnerships. Initially appointed Executive Director and later promoted to President and CEO, she helped shape a broader vision for community engagement and strengthen Global Ties Arizona’s visibility across the state.

During her tenure, Global Ties Arizona implemented exchanges that brought more than 1,700 emerging and established international leaders to Arizona. The organization diversified its programming through new initiatives including the Worldly Women Collective, Young Diplomats Program, and Global Cafés, creating more opportunities for residents to engage with people from around the world and for young people to explore careers in global affairs.

Under Allen’s leadership, the organization increased its operating budget, staff and organizational capacity more than fourfold, grew its Board of Directors, and extended its programming presence into Southern Arizona in 2026.

Allen also elevated Global Ties Arizona’s national visibility through leadership within the Global Ties U.S. network, serving on the 2024 National Meeting Planning Committee and as Chair of the 2026 National Meeting.

“It has been an extraordinary honor to help shape Global Ties Arizona’s growth and contribute to its sixty-year history,” said Allen. “The small organization I joined in 2021 has grown in capacity, reach, and ambition, with an impact that extends far beyond its size. This experience has transformed my own leadership journey and has underscored the power of diplomacy—listening across differences, building trust, and bringing people together around shared goals. These are lessons I will carry into my next role. I am deeply grateful to our board, staff, partners, and volunteers for all we have built together, and I look forward to seeing Global Ties Arizona’s next chapter unfold.”

The transition comes during a milestone year for Global Ties Arizona, which recently celebrated its 60th anniversary. The organization is on track to welcome more than 400 international visitors in 2026, reflecting the strength of its exchange programming and Arizona’s growing global connections.



“Kristin has guided Global Ties Arizona through a remarkable period of transformation, beginning with the challenges of the pandemic and continuing through years of growth and expanded impact,” said David Luna, Chair of the Board of Directors. “She has built lasting partnerships, strengthened our organization, and helped more Arizonans see themselves as participants in citizen diplomacy. We are grateful for her leadership and wish her every success at WESTMARC. The board is committed to building on this momentum and supporting a thoughtful leadership transition.”

Allen will remain with Global Ties Arizona through November 30, working with the board and staff to ensure continuity across programs and operations. The Board of Directors has launched the search for her successor, with the position announcement and application details to be released soon.

Address:

3110 North Central Avenue, Suite D-160

Phoenix, AZ 85012 

Phone:

(480) 945-7750