Staff
Ms. Pam Koester Chief Executive Officer Ms. Pam Koester has had a distinguished career in aging services, beginning with her Master's Degree in Social Gerontology, continuing in various capacities in senior executive positions, and advancing cutting-edge governance and strategic planning techniques in her role as President of Koester & Associates. Ms. Koester rejoined Arizona Leading Age as Chief Executive Officer in January of 2016, after previously serving as its Director of Education and Interim Executive Director. |
Ms. Gemenie Babb Director of Membership Ms. Babb was promoted to the position of Director of Membership in August of 2019. She previously served as the Association's Office Manager. Prior to her time with Arizona LeadingAge, she worked for the National Speakers Association as their Membership Coordinator for 12 years as well as for other non-profit groups. Ms. Babb is a valuable member of the office team and enjoys serving our members. |
| Ms. Kelsie Lane Director of Education Ms. Lane will be graduating in May 2022 with a Master's in Social Work with a certificate in Gerontology. Ms. Lane currently has her Bachelor of Social Work and certificate as a Certified Nonprofit Professional. She has a passion for serving the senior population. Her passion started through volunteering in activities at a not-for-profit Life Plan Community and has continued through many roles as a server, unit clerk, and dietary aide within the same provider community. |
![]() | Mr. John (JD) Butler Director of Public Policy Mr. Butler graduated with a Masters of Public Policy from the ASU School of Public Affairs in December 2020 and a B.S. in Economics from the ASU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences in December 2017. Prior to joining Arizona LeadingAge, JD was a Financial Analyst at the Arizona Department of Insurance and Financial Institutions and then a Budget Analyst at the Maricopa County Office of Budget and Finance for three years and eighteen months respectively. JD has a passion for advocacy and making sure that every voice is heard. He assists with a broad set of activities that support policy advancement at the federal and state levels. |
Lobbyist
Mr. Donald G. Isaacson Lobbyist Mr. Donald G. Isaacson has provided lobbying services to Arizona LeadingAge for the past 30 years. His firm, Isaacson Law Firm, P.C. has provided high level legal and government relations services to Arizona LeadingAge. It is consistently rated among the top lobbying firms in Arizona. |