5A Board Members
Matt Broek
Matt Broek, a graduate of Arizona State University, joins our organization with a strong commitment to excellence and a distinguished professional background. With over a decade-long career, he consistently ranks in the top 10% of Realtors in Arizona, notably excelling in overseeing the sale of foreclosed properties for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac at Olson Gough before 2009. Mr. Broek’s dedication extends beyond real estate, demonstrated by his service on the board of Phoenix Christian, a nonprofit school for students from pre-kindergarten to 8th grade.
His unwavering drive, extensive real estate experience, and profound knowledge of Arizona’s dynamic landscape make Mr. Broek an invaluable asset to our organization. We are confident that his strategic insights and commitment to positive community impact will significantly contribute to our continued success and growth.
Nicole Torres
Nicole Torres, a proud native of Arizona, hails from the East Valley. Following her academic pursuits, she attended Gateway Community College, where she distinguished herself by earning her nursing degree with honors. With a dedicated career spanning 13 years, Nicole has served as a surgical Registered Nurse, balancing professional growth with personal milestones such as marriage, the joy of parenthood with two children, and the attainment of her Bachelor’s degree in nursing.
Currently residing in South Scottsdale with her family, Nicole holds the esteemed position of Director of Nursing at a reputable ambulatory surgery center in Mesa. Her wealth of experience and commitment to excellence make her an invaluable asset to our Board, where her voice serves as an integral part of our collective vision and decision-making processes.
Michael Landry
Since 1999, Michael has held the pivotal role of Managing Member at Lagniappe Associates, LLC, a distinguished firm providing crucial financial support to Guyan International. Notably, Guyan International is under the ownership of the illustrious Shell Family, a key patron of 5A. The profound impact of this support is exemplified in the New Solution crafted by Craig Shell, named in honor of a family member who served as the Executive Director for 5A over an extended period. This underscores the familial dedication of the Shell Family to the values and objectives championed by 5A, showcasing a unique synergy between Lagniappe Associates and the philanthropic endeavors of the Shell Family.
Michael’s academic background includes the attainment of a Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting from Southern Louisiana University. His professional affiliations further underscore his commitment to excellence, with memberships in esteemed organizations such as the Society of International Business Fellows (SIBF), the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), and the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA). As a valuable member of our board, Michael’s financial expertise stands as an invaluable asset, significantly contributing to the strategic direction and decision-making processes that drive our organization’s success.
Dona Speir
Dona Speir is a multifaceted individual, contributing significantly to the fields of recovery, coaching, and advocacy. As an accomplished Author, Speaker, Recovery Coach, and businesswoman, she currently serves as a columnist for Recovery Today Magazine, providing valuable insights into the journey of recovery.
Ms. Berman holds National Certification as a Recovery Coach I and II, as well as certifications as an Anger Management Facilitator and Domestic Violence group Facilitator. Her expertise extends beyond professional certifications, with a deeply personal connection to the recovery journey, having triumphed over a 37-year battle with addiction. This firsthand experience uniquely positions her as an influential figure in the industry.
Dona’s commitment to making a difference is evident in her role as a non-profit executive, where she played a pivotal role in founding the Lynn House, one of the first no-charge Recovery/Detox homes in California. This residence caters to women with a history of alcoholism and drug abuse, offering a supportive environment for spiritual recovery.
In the early 2000s, she furthered her impact by serving on the Board of the W.I.N. Foundation (Women in Need), a non-profit organization dedicated to recovery, education, and empowerment. Her efforts were recognized when she was honored as the ‘Woman of the Year’ by the Yellowstone Foundation, a non-profit Women’s Recovery Group of Homes, during the years 2004-2006.
Dona’s dedication to the Recovery industry has taken her to Phoenix, where she actively contributes as an officer for Hospitals and Institutions. Additionally, she holds a significant position as the Treatment Chair, emphasizing her ongoing commitment to improving the lives of those on the path to recovery.
James Ridgeway
James Ridgeway is a seasoned professional with an extensive background in the real estate industry, bringing over 23 years of expertise to the table. As the owning broker of Ridgeway Real Estate Investment for nearly 12 years, he has demonstrated remarkable leadership and business acumen. Based in the vibrant Arizona Valley for the past 25 years, James’s commitment to the community extends beyond the realm of real estate.
Born and raised in the bustling city of New York, James brings a unique blend of East Coast tenacity and Southwestern charm to his endeavors. In addition to his successful real estate career, he is an active member of Christ Church of Ascension, where he has been lending his voice as a tenor in the choir for a decade. James, with 15 years of recovery, also serves as a dedicated treasurer for SRI, showcasing his commitment to philanthropy and community service. With two children currently in college, James effectively balances his professional pursuits with a family-centric approach. Managing seven strip centers and over 60 residential homes, James Ridgeway is not only a prominent figure in the real estate landscape but also a valued member of our board, contributing to both the economic and cultural vibrancy of the region.