Jacob Schmitt began his work at AzCA in 2013 and was responsible for AzCA’s performance and quality improvement program as well as compliance with all federal, state, contractual, and accreditation requirements. He moved into the role of President and CEO in September 2019. Jacob has more than 20 years of experience in providing and overseeing social service programs in both public and private sectors. Jacob has a Bachelor’s Degree in Special Studies from Cornell College and a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Bellevue University.

Tracy Thurston joined the AzCA team in 2021 and is responsible for the behavioral health services for the children and families of AzCA. Tracy has more than 19 years of experience in behavioral health, 16 in the non-profit sector. Her experience includes direct care, program growth, clinical oversight, leadership, and staff development. Tracy earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison and a Master’s of Counseling from Arizona State University.

Susan Encinas began working with AzCA in 2009 with the Information Technology department and moved into the role of CIO responsible for managing IT/IS functions for the agency in 2016. Susan holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems from University of Arizona and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management from University of Phoenix.