Our Team
Urban Phoenix Project is run entirely by volunteers. Our board members reside not only in the downtown area, but throughout the city. Each is passionate about advancing urbanism in Phoenix and making this a better place to live.
Ryan Boyd • President
With his background working in government communications and as a legislative liaison, Ryan is well-versed in the ins and outs of city, county, and state government. He also serves on the City of Phoenix Planning Commission and the steering committee for Downtown Voices Coalition.
Kristin Heggli • Vice President
Kristin brings 15 years of experience in marketing, communications, social media, and photography. Residing in east Phoenix, she is particularly passionate about bikes and e-bikes as a way to get around the city, and would also love to see enhancements to transit to allow for greater connectivity.
Denis Trufin • Treasurer
With seven years of experience in finance, Denis brings a unique blend of expertise in video production, communication, and networking to this role. He is deeply committed to transparency and financial stewardship and is passionate about fostering growth and connection within our community.
Nicole Marquez • Secretary
A homeowner and public school parent in central Phoenix, Nicole decided long ago that planning for sustainability is crucial for future generations. Community building is a key part of this work, and that's why she founded the Creighton Academy Parent Teacher Organization and is currently running for Creighton Elementary School District Governing Board. In addition to her passion for community building, Nicole has a strong background in public relations, administration, and board leadership. Through her work, Nicole endeavors to improve the quality of life for folks living in the Valley.
Joe Golfen • Board Member
A lifelong Phoenician, Joe brings more than a decade's worth of experience in communication, graphic design, and digital marketing to UPP. He is passionate about pedestrian and cyclist safety, and hopes to make Phoenix a more connected and fulfilling community.
Nicole Rodriguez • Board Member
Nicole, a longtime UPP supporter and two-time board member, has a varied background in urban planning, urban forestry, and sustainability. She came to the Valley about 20 years ago without a vehicle, experiencing the bus system in the summer heat. She struggled with the economic hardships of vehicle ownership, and for some years now she and her family have biked, bused, and walked just about everywhere. Nicole has received multiple awards for her community advocacy and serves as a board member for non-profits Trellis and Trees Matter and as the vice chair for the City of Phoenix Encanto Village Planning Committee.
Alex Sorrell • Board Member
A Phoenician for over a decade, Alex Sorrell brings years of experience in communications, digital marketing and social media. Moving to the Valley and living in Central Phoenix, Alex quickly saw the value that a cohesive, urban community can bring to its residents.
Erin Cochran • Board Member
As a central Phoenician residing between the 7s for almost a decade, Erin is passionate about seeing the Valley grow in useful and sustainable ways for future generations. With experience across the public sector ranging from communications to policy, Erin brings 15+ years of experience in advocacy for local economies, affordable housing, and homeless services, and looks forward to continued work towards strengthening our local communities.
Steven Elisala • Board Member
Steven brings a background in economics, policy, and public administration. Through this work, he has developed an interest in building a vibrant and inclusive city that thrives on diversity and connection. He works to address inequities in our urban communities, from land use to walkability and public transportation.
Matthew Spence • Board Member
Matthew has a diverse background ranging from construction to cybersecurity and public policy. Regardless of his role, his focus has always been on solving problems and bringing people together by building stronger, safer, more connected communities.