Join us for a dynamic panel discussion on the crucial role of women in water management, sustainability, and innovation—highlighting their impact and leadership in shaping a sustainable future locally and globally.
Wednesday, October 30th | 5:30-7:30 pm
at University of Arizona’s Scottsdale Center
7135 E. Camelback Rd. Scottsdale, AZ 85251
$20 nonmember | $10 member ($10 off with WWC member code)
Wine, non-alcoholic beverages and light apps included with registration.
Agenda
5:30 - 6:00 PM: Check-in and mingling
6:00 - 6:10 PM: Opening Remarks
6:10 - 7:00 PM: Panel Discussion: Women Shaping the Future of Water - A moderated discussion with panelists sharing insights on their work in water management, conservation, and sustainability, and the importance of women in the sector locally and globally.
6:40 - 7:00 PM: Audience Q&A Session
7:00 - 7:30 PM: Continued Networking
7:30 PM: Event Conclusion
Parking
There is free parking available in the garage located directly underground the building. The Center is on the second-floor suite above PF Chang's and Culinary Dropout. The entrance door from the street is located between Culinary Dropout and Maple and Ash. Take the stairs or the elevator to the second floor.
Event Moderator
Natalie DeRoock,
Public Affairs Administrator for Tucson Water
Natalie DeRoock leads the Public Affairs Division at Tucson Water, bringing a wealth of experience from her previous roles as a policy researcher at the University of Arizona and a Public Affairs Strategist for the U.S. Department of State, where she worked internationally. Natalie's work focuses on fostering positive public perception, building strong relationships, and promoting innovative, culturally relevant, and sustainable water resource management strategies. Her commitment ensures a safe and secure water future for diverse local, regional, and global communities.
Featured Panelists
Gwendena Lee-Gatewood,
Co-Chair of the Indigenous Women’s Leadership Network & Former Tribal Chairwoman of the White Mountain
Apache Tribe
Gwendena Lee-Gatewood is a dedicated leader and advocate, serving as Co-Chair of the Indigenous Women’s Leadership Network, where she Co-champions the voices of Indigenous women in leadership roles. As a board member of the Show Low Chamber of Commerce, she plays a key role in helping to foster economic growth and strengthening community ties. Gwendena is also the Community President of McNary-Hondah, where she brings her deep connection to her people and land into her work, promoting community well-being and cultural preservation. She is also the first woman ever elected to the highest office for her tribe, as Tribal Chairwoman in 2018-2022.
An avid writer, Gwendena enjoys crafting thoughtful narratives that uplift and inspire. Her passion for sharing stories led her to contribute an encouraging quote for Global Ties Arizona and the International Global Exchange Group, “ every culture holds a piece of the worlds wisdom” reflecting her belief in the power of cross-cultural collaboration and the importance of unity in our global community.
She is excited to join in the discussion with the panelists and appreciates the invitation, and wishes you all success in your own global ties and may it continue to strengthen and grow for it has a great purpose.
Dr. Sharon Megdal
Director of The University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC)
Dr. Sharon B. Megdal is Director of The University of Arizona Water Resources Research Center (WRRC), Professor in the Department of Environmental Science, C.W. & Modene Neely Endowed Professor, and Distinguished Outreach Professor. Dr. Megdal aims to bridge the academic, practitioner, and civil society communities through water policy and management research, education, and engagement programs. An expert on water management and policy in water-scarce regions, she is the lead editor of Shared Borders, Shared Waters: Israeli-Palestinian and Colorado River Basin Water Challenges. Dr. Megdal was awarded the Warren A. Hall Medal for lifetime achievement in water resources research and education by the Universities Council on Water Resources. She holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Princeton University. Her full CV can be found at wrrc.arizona.edu/director.
Leslie Meyers
Associate General Manager & Chief Water Resources and Services Executive of Salt River Project
Leslie joined Salt River Project in 2022, with more than 30 years of water resources management experience in Arizona and the southwest. Throughout her career, Leslie has worked on strategic initiative planning and implementation with Federal, States, Tribes, irrigation districts, local governments, non- governmental organizations, and others. Leslie received a BS degree in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University and is a registered Professional Engineer.
