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Testimonials

Ortiz Testimonials


Hugh O'Brian as Wyatt Earp. Learn more about Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership at www.hoby.org..."Andrew Ortiz is a 1985 graduate of my youth development program, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY), which seeks out, recognizes and develops leadership potential in high school 10th graders. Andy was selected by his school in Tempe, Arizona, as its key leader with strong potential. Since then, Andy has served with distinction on the HOBY International Board of Trustees, and in 2007, received the HOBY Alumni Achievement Award in Beverly Hills, California.

"Andy is a successful businessman and is recognized as a dynamic speaker and a much sought-after trainer, coach and consultant by companies, organizations, governments and academic institutions worldwide. I recommend him to all, as he is an amazing leader.

"Andy has fulfilled our dreams in many ways, and I am proud to call him a TRUE Ambassador of HOBY."

Hugh O’Brian
Actor and humanitarian who is famous for portraying the legendary Western law man, Wyatt Earp, in the 1950s.
In 1958, Hugh founded Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership. Please visit www.hoby.org.


"Let me say that I was very impressed with the presentation that you provided. I am sure that the audience will benefit greatly from your words of wisdom."

Francisco Figueroa
Continental Airlines


"Your website is fabulous! I am honored to have met you at the IAHMP 14th Annual Conference in Denver. I truly enjoyed your presentation. You brought me home knowing that a special clap is alive and that we are also great presenters. Our experiences and presence throughout the world needs to be heard and passed on to everyone. Planting Seeds... working the field, ganas, dedication, attitude, and love sure helps."

Elida Chavez, CDMP
President, Western Region International Association
of Hispanic Meeting Professionals


"I've worked with Andy Ortiz through the Congressional Award and found him to be an inspirational speaker who provides focused, practical solutions for his clients. His ability to get to the core issues and assist in providing workable solutions makes him a great asset. I'd be delighted to work with Andy again in the future."

Kylie Hunter


"Andrew's leadership has inspired hundreds of professionals, students, and activists in Arizona. As a trainer and coach in the Center for Progressive Leadership, I have seen the impact of Andrew's skill on the impressive growth and development of the program fellows."

Arizona State Representative Kyrsten Sinema


"A good speaker can be critical to setting the tone of an event for a convention audience, and Andrew Ortiz has established himself as a leader in the training/speaking community here in the southwest. I met Andrew during several events over the years connected with Arizona State University and recently worked with him at an event for the Hispanic Meeting Professionals group. His talk was very well received as he motivated the attendees and put in perspective their growth in the business world as they attempt to make their mark. Cheers and a standing ovation were kudos to the enthusiasm he built in that audience. I strongly endorse Andrew to bring a fresh perspective to any corporate group that needs a jump start."

Michael Stawiarski
President 2009-2010
Arizona Sunbelt Chapter
Meeting Professionals International


"Andy is a passionate and dedicated leader who continually strives to improve not only himself but those around him. It has been a privilege for me to cross paths with him through the years and seeing firsthand how he continues to motivate others to be the best leaders that they can be, first as a student leader at Arizona State University and now as a dynamic speaker and professional. I am pleased to recommend without reservation Andy for your business or organization!"

Tony Alvarado


"Andy helped me gain clarity about my career path during a time when I felt like I was groping my way through a dense fog. He facilitated my insight into my goals and strengths by helping me face my weaknesses. Learning to work within my personal boundaries gave me a focus I didn't have before, which helps me conserve much needed time and energy for what I really care about."

Jacqueline Freeman


"Andy is not only a strong leader himself but is able to teach other people to be stronger leaders. Andy has helped me to become a stronger leader and has taught be some techniques that I can use to communicate better and to lead people.

"Andy is a very good listener which allows him to learn where people need instruction and guidance. In the Center for Progressive Leadership Fellowship I have seen Andy teach and instruct and I know he has helped people to become better leaders. Anyone interested in becoming a stronger leader should at least meet and talk to Andy."

Alex Benikov


"I attended one of Andrew's seminars for the Iowa Jaycees in October 2009. It was one of the better leadership seminars that I had attended in some time. Andrew knows how to put things in the proper perspective and made me think about the way that I do things in my daily routine, especially knowing difference between management and leadership. It made me realize that managers are a dime a dozen, but truly inspiring leaders are a bit more rare. It made me strive to be a much better leader. He also had a great way of putting into perspective the difference between being involved and being committed. I love how Andrew broke down different concepts with great analogies. The training was a great eye opener for me in many ways and I feel it will make me a better teacher, coach, and Jaycee."

John Parsons
Past Chapter President
Clive, IA, Jaycees


"Andy Ortiz is a wonderful motivational speaker. His presentation 'Stoking the Fire: 7 Keys to Successful Leadership' will help our members to succeed in their careers in the meetings industry. Best of all, his dialogue with attendees helps people to reconnect with who they are and the unique gift each one of them brings to their workplace.

"We highly recommend Andy Ortiz to any organization who wants a dynamic speaker who is prepared professionally to speak to the needs of your organization.

"Thank you Andy for a job well done!"

Margaret Gonzalez
President
International Association of Hispanic Meeting Professionals


"Thank you again for the workshop that you did at NACAC last weekend. I feel that the information you providedand the discussion that followedwill be very helpful to me. Again, many thanks for your participation in our Leadership Development Institute."

Lisa Sohmer
Director, NACAC Board of Directors
Director of College Counseling
Garden School
Jackson Heights, NY


"It was a pleasure meeting you at the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of America (CADCA) Mid-year Institute. I am very impressed with your work and website."

Ken Lampar


"Thanks for spending a couple of days with us and for challenging us to think more 'diversely'."

John Boshoven


"Thank you again for the best presentation of the conference!"

Susan Preston
Purchasing Department
Arizona Department of Veterans' Services
Phoenix, Arizona


"I enjoyed your opening speech at the National Institute for Government Purchasers (NIGP) conference in Mesa.
Thank you."

Lila McCleery
Contract Management Specialist
Phoenix Union High School District
Purchasing Department


"I want to thank you for the amazing job that you have done. Please know that the work you have done will have long reaching effects on improving the quality of services offered to Arizona’s vulnerable populations.

"On behalf of the United Way, its partners and all those you have served, thank you for your generous giving of time, commitment and effort. Your time and talents are the most valuable of things and we greatly appreciate them. No act of kindness no matter how small is ever wasted. You have inspired those you have worked with to set a concrete plan for the future and to believe that they can achieve their vision."

Sharon Gartner, M.A., M.B.A.
Director, Supporting Seniors
United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona


"Andrew was a great inspiration to the leaders of Arizona STO Association. His presentation on “Stoking the Fire: 7 Keys to Successful Leadership” was spot on for battle weary leaders. It was a shot in the arm and boost to the soul. Andrew came fully prepared to help leaders of today meet the challenges of tomorrow. Our group benefited by the straightforward and thorough presentation of the needs of today’s leaders. His PowerPoint presentation, his handouts, and his appropriate illustrations were all useful in helping us refill our tanks and keep charged up as we move on with our organizations.

"I would highly recommend Andrew Ortiz to any organization who wants someone experienced in business. He is prepared professionally to speak to the needs of your business.

"Thank you, Andrew, for a job well done! It is a pleasure to know you both professionally and also as a friend."

Harry V. Miller
Executive Director
TOPS for Kids
Mesa, Arizona


"Andrew, I just wanted to take a moment to express the great enjoyment your speech gave me Tuesday morning. It took me back to my college days at UCLA where things didn't seem so black and white and speaking out regarding the injustices of immigration, politics and life in general wasn't frowned upon. From one Latino to another, congratulations on your accomplishments."

Haydee Nora
Purchasing Agent
Town of Buckeye, Arizona


"I first met Andrew Ortiz in March of 2001, when I was the interim Executive Director of on the Arizona Society of Association Executives and he was the Executive Director of the Arizona Community Action Association. From the first phone call I was impressed with his clarity of purpose. Then I had a chance to work with both he and his wife Deborah on personal and professional levels. I realized the depth of this young man who had such a brilliant and expansive background. I expected much from him, and he has not failed me. Watch out world! Here is a man who is committed to making a difference at home, in his state and country. A professional who maintains a healthy balance between his work and family life while working for so many causes. We need role models and both Andrew and Deborah are just that…I’m proud to call them friends and mentors."

Princeline Roxbury
Former Executive Director
Arizona Society of Association Executives (AZSAE)


"Andy,thank you so much for moderating the town hall in Ahwatukee last night. You did an excellent job in keeping everyone focused, and you kept the tone pleasant and professional at all times. Your efforts were certainly instrumental in making it a very successful event."

Pat Lawlis
President, Protecting Arizona’s Resources & Children (PARC)


"Thank you for your commitment to community service. Through your generosity and hard work, you have shown that the tradition of neighbor helping neighbor is alive and well in our country. Your efforts profoundly influence the life of your community and they are a shining example for us all. Barbara joins me in saluting you and sending you our best wishes. God bless you."

George Herbert Walker Bush
41st President of the United States 


"Andy is truly committed to strengthening the nonprofit sector and the Hispanic community."

Jacquelyn Ahrenberg
Development Director
Florence Immigrant & Refugee Rights Project


"Just one look at Andrew's bio, testimonials, and client lists will show his depth of work and involvement in his communities. He and his wife Deborah are both servants, each touching many lives in many ways. I've seen Andrew at work in speaking to and advising student leaders and in developing the content for his company's website, and am honored to work with him."

Vincent Alex Brown
Owner & President
Brown Bag Interactive, LLC


"Andy is a very impressive young man who has shown extraordinary leadership ability in Arizona, and particularly within the nonprofit sector and the Hispanic community."

Deborah Whitehurst
Chief Operating Officer
Arizona Community Foundation


"The numerous distinctions and awards that Andy has received have shown his willingness to get involved and certainly to make a difference. His accomplishments and dedication to his community are a testament to his character."

Eric Gudino
Senior Assistant to Phoenix Mayor Phil Gordon


"I have served on the Arizona Society of Association Executives’ Board of Directors for several years with Andrew and have gotten to know him on both a personal and professional level. The contributions that he has made to the Arizona Society of Association Executives, Arizona State University, and to the individuals, organizations, and communities he has served have been intensive, extensive and impressive."

William G. Trottier
Executive Director
Manufactured Housing Industry of Arizona


"Mr. Ortiz, an Arizona native, is a highly distinguished professional in the Phoenix valley, and a recognized leader in the Latino community. His accomplishments are very impressive, particularly for a person so young, and will better the community for years to come."

Belen K. Gonzalez, M.S.W.
Grants Manager
Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust


"Andrew is a great role model. He is dedicated, very proactive, a consummate professional, and he exhibits the high degree of caring that motivates him to devote time and effort to volunteerism. In short, he believes in giving back to the community and does!"

Susan Sarfati, CAE
President & CEO
The Center for Association Leadership


"Andrew has received numerous honors and awards for leadership, citizenship, community service and volunteerism from presidents, community leaders, and even foreign royalty. He is dedicated to building partnerships to serve the needs of Arizona’s and America’s citizenry. He has been a champion in the arenas of law, personal leadership, nonprofit management, education, health and human services and youth development."

David A. Gonzales, CPCU
Senior Vice President
State Farm Insurance – Great Western Zone Office


"I have been extremely impressed with Andrew and amazed at how much he has already accomplished. I have worked with volunteers for over 30 years but I have never met anyone who has volunteered as much as Andrew. He goes above and beyond in everything he does. He has served on more boards and commissions than anyone I have ever known."

Linda Searfoss
President
Archer, Searfoss and Associates


"Andy has very extensive knowledge of programs, resources and people in the nonprofit sector.  He can help agencies bridge gaps and fill holes in their networking."

Renea Gentry, MC, CFRE
Executive Director
Interfaith Cooperative Ministries 
Phoenix, AZ


"I had the pleasure of working with Andrew Ortiz at the Center for Progressive Leadership Fellowship.  As a fellow you need guidance and support, Andrew was just that.  He is incredibly supportive and is an exceptional guide.  He has the ability to customize specific leadership plans for both individuals and large groups.  His assistance is incomparable and I look forward to working with him again."

Angelica Delgadillo
Center for Progressive Leadership Fellow Class 2007-2008


"Andy, you've become my role model with your amazing organizational ability and
your personal energy!"

Manuel Cisneros
Director
Arizona Office of Equal Opportunity


"I wanted to thank you, again, for your presentation at the Pathways To Success Program's College Parent Academy. I enjoyed learning about your incredible story related to your educational journey. You are an inspiration to us all and I wanted to extend my gratitude for sharing your story, advice, and guidance to Carl Hayden parents."

Brenda Serna
Senior Family Resource Specialist
Pathways To Success
Golden Gate Community Center


"I enjoyed your presentation and found it very informative."

Terry McPeters
Executive Director
HealthCare Connect


"Thank you for your very inspiring presentation to our Rotary Club."

Al J. Chaves
Financial Consultant
A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc.


"Your presentation was excellent and your vision falls right in line with what we are working towards as a club."

Michael J. Long
Branch Manager
Adecco Premier – Scottsdale


"On behalf of the Phoenix El Puente Rotary Club, I would like to thank you for speaking at our meeting last night. Your presentation was outstanding, and we were impressed with your background, particularly your community involvement."

Maria Brandenburg
COUNTRY Insurance and Financial Services


"Andy is an outstanding speaker who actively engages his audience. He is one of the most professional and engaging speakers I have listened to."

Fred Amador
President & CEO
Peak Performance Coaching


"Andy Ortiz’s presentation on Nonprofit Leadership Management was both comprehensive and insightful. The full presentation instructed our Board of Directors on successful organizational structure and focused on procedures that the best nonprofits use to their success. This presentation is for any nonprofit- new or old, big or small. It can teach newer non-profits to focus on how their current structure prepares them for expansion and encourages older, mature non-profits such as ours to be self-critical so not to become complacent in success. This is a fantastic program and highly recommended."

Paula West
Executive Director
Phoenix Sister Cities Commission


"Thank you for the in-service on board governance. The Board truly benefited from the training and I know it provided a solid basis for all Board members to get on the same page and work to move our agency forward together."

Brian Helander, RN, MHSA
Executive Director
Body Positive, Inc.


"I found you very well informed and articulate. I stated that I have the attention span of a gnat and you kept me riveted."

Karen Justice
President & CEO
Justice Financial Advising, Inc.


"I am sure you have heard this one million times, but it was truly inspiring to hear you speak. Your message really resonated with me. I think often as we focus on our personal paths we lose focus on the obligations we have to others. I feel so blessed by what I have received from the relationships in my life, and when I left yesterday I really started thinking about what I am and am not giving back. Thank you for reminding me."

Jessica Gomez
President & CEO
OpenDoor Events, Inc.


"Thank you once again for taking the time to serve as a member of the Guest Leader Forum last night at the LeaderShape Institute. You did an outstanding job. You will have a long-lasting impact on the young people who had the opportunity to attend the session."

Paul Pyrz
President & CEO
LeaderShape Institute 


"The students were still talking about your presentation on Saturday and what it meant to them. Best wishes for your continued success and thank you for giving of your time to make our session a success!"

Dave Kelly
Professional Speaker, Humorist & Trainer


"You were a great speaker."

Mary Moriarty
Irish Cultural and Learning Foundation


"Very nice presentation at the ONE luncheon last week! I am hoping that you might be available to present to our Social Venture Partners Investees and Lead Partners. We are gathering our nonprofit partners on a monthly basis and providing useful presentations—you would be perfect."

Terri Wogan
Executive Director
Social Venture Partners Arizona


"Your continuous efforts in volunteer work, as well as you passion for Latino issues represent an ongoing commitment to social embeddedness that we hope to instill in our students, and further, set an important example for your peers at large…We are truly proud to count you among our most distinguished alumni."

Dr. Michael Crow
President
Arizona State University


"Thank you for your presentation. Your shared knowledge and time are greatly appreciated. Your contributions are planted seeds in the minds of emerging leaders and future professionals."

Arizona State University
Emerging Leaders Program


"Thank you for taking the time to come and speak at Dobson High School’s Community Leadership & Education (CLEW) workshop this past Saturday. I realize that you are very busy and I very much appreciate the time you gave to our seminar. The students very much enjoyed it and they actually commented that they wanted more time to ask you questions. So, thank you again for your time and generosity."

Jessica Sims
CLEW Coordinator
Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership – Arizona


"I just wanted to say thanks again for your presentation at our board retreat. I was very impressed and I learned a great deal."

Misty Cisneros
Phoenix Sister Cities Commission


"Thank you so much for your contributions during last weekend’s training. I am really excited to have you on faculty this year and looking forward to working with you on future trainings."

Caroline Allen
Program Director
Center for Progressive Leadership – Arizona


"I certainly enjoyed your presentation at last week’s conference and having the opportunity of meeting you personally. Please be assured that you will be considered closely the next time we are thinking about having an outside speaker, consultant, workshop, etc. May the Lord bless you and your ministry!"

Stephen G. Scholle
Sr. Vice President of Administration and General Counsel
Billy Graham Evangelistic Association
Charlotte, North Carolina


"Thank you for speaking at my ASU Public Leadership class this past semester. Your personal insights to leadership were both informative and engaging to the class. I received a number of positive comments after your presentation from class members who related well to your ability to weave valuable leadership information into your life story."

Ira M. Rubins, Ph.D., CAE
Executive Director
Arizona Parks & Recreation Association Inc.


"Andrew Ortiz is one of the sharpest consultants I've ever worked with and I can't say enough about his strong leadership abilities and experiences."

Steve Wymer
Principal
Tarant & Wymer


"It has been a pure pleasure working with you over the past few years. I have always enjoyed your charismatic leadership style."

Ali Kamen
Former Coordinato
Coalition for a Tobacco Free Arizona


"Thank you for speaking to our club. I found your address more than anything else, provocative. You had more than a disinterested view of leadership…well-reasoned and passionate with clear steps in nurturing a leadership culture. As you stated, one has to assume some risk to lead. We need more risk takers that will eventually work themselves into leadership roles."

Christopher Rosner
Tempe Kiwanis Club and O’Grady Mortgage


"I am writing to express my appreciation and gratitude for your presentations at our recent 2007 Foundation and Nonprofit Performance Conference. The Council on Nonprofit Innovation greatly appreciates your participation. The information you provided was very well-received by the delegates and was of great value.

"Your presentations were both timely and relevant. Your expertise, along with your commitment, made you a great representative for the event. We are so grateful for your efforts and wanted to recognize you for that as well as to commend you for your professional and excellent presentations."

Ian Faigley
Executive Director
Council for Nonprofit Innovation


"I was so impressed with your work."

John M. Bridgeland
Former Assistant to the President and Former Director
USA Freedom Corps


"It was a pleasure to meet you this weekend at the ASGA regional conference in Dallas. Your leadership presentation was amazing and provided a nice boost of inspiration."

Eric Fortenberry
OrgSync, Inc.


"We had a good time and did a fine job at the conference. You got some good evaluations."

W.H. "Butch" Oxendine, Jr.
Executive Director
American Student Government Association


"Good information about how to gain support for how to be effective in advocacy."

Lisa Watt, Senator
Ivy Tech Community College


"I got lots of information on how to improve our representation of our students."

Marina Serna
Crafton Hills College
Editor-in-Chief of CHC newspaper


"Andy’s 'Stoke The Fire of Passionate Leadership' was just the re-energizer I needed!"

Jan Moline
Student Activities Coordinator
Cerro Coso Community College


"Stoke The Fire was entertaining. Andy got the people in the room involved and promoted new ideas."

Emerson Terry
Diversity Chair
Crafton Hills College


"Thank you for your participation as a team consultant for the 2007 Technical Assistance Partnership (TAP) Program sponsored by St. Luke’s Health Initiatives. Your expertise for working with these deserving agencies was appreciated."

Stephanie Gallegos
Program Associate
St. Luke’s Health Initiatives


"I got so very much out of the (Board Leadership) classes that I attended and the material you shared that I am miles ahead of where I was when we began. It might please you to know that, not only have I begun to work on developing my board here, but that I have gained so much insight from the work we did with you, that I have also been able to further clarify both the mission of the Girls' Education Project and my role within it, in ways that are reassuring and which promise to be immensely satisfying for me.

"I have also been able to use the expertise you shared to help me better organize the board of the organization with which I work in the Caribbean. Thank you very, very much, Andrew."

Shirley Osborne
President & CEO
Girls' Education Project


"I look forward to the new year and do hope we have the opportunity to work together. You do a super job."

Chris McCarty
Former President & Chief Executive Officer
Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership


"Your commitment to making the City of Phoenix a better place is evidenced through your dedication to human and civil rights that has touched many in our community. Your work is truly valuable and highly appreciated by the City of Phoenix and your community."

The Honorable Phil Gordon
Mayor
Phoenix, Arizona


"Your credentials are impressive."

Diann Jeppson
President
American Youth Leadership Institute


"Andrew Ortiz is simply one of the most dynamic and knowledgeable presenters in the nation when it comes to student government and student leadership. I've known him since his days as student government president at Arizona State University, and we have continued to work together ever since. Andy was one of the featured speakers at ASGA's first-ever conference in Philadelphia and continues to contribute to several of our conferences. He gets great reviews! Andy is a committed leader who lives what he 'preaches.' I admire him a great deal."

W.H. "Butch" Oxendine, Jr.
Executive Director
American Student Government Association


"Impressive credentials."

Timothy J. Schmaltz
Center for Spirituality and Ministry in the Marketplace


"I wanted to thank you for including me in the TAP workshop on Board Development.  I found the sessions enjoyable and helpful plus my Board made use of Andrew's expertise by having him help us formulate a Strategic Plan.  This was something we had been trying to do for several months and Andy was very knowledgeable and helpful in helping us create our plan. Thank you for your help!"

Liz Zveglich
President
Rosson House-Heritage Square Foundation and Guild


"Thanks again for being our speaker for the Canon Leadership program! I enjoyed your presentation."

Daniel Ashlock
Director Office of Student Engagement, Arizona State University
Coordinator, Canon Leadership Program


Comments from Ortiz presentation attendees…

"Great passion and knowledge of the subject."

"Very well presented."

"He gave me ideas of how to connect things."

"Andy knew his stuff and demonstrated great communication skills."

"Andy gave me understanding of how nonprofits work."

"Andy gave us different ways to look at issues."

"Lots of good information and ideas."

"Andy was very confident and filled with knowledge."

"Andy gave us ideas to improve our board."

"Have heard these topics several times before, but the presenter did an excellent job of presenting with a new spin."

"Very good!!!"

"Excellent speaker, and good attempts to involve participants."

"Good, strong projection of voice. Knowledgeable and informative…offered many resources."

"Andrew is very knowledgeable and, therefore, needs to become an Associate Member of the Bisbee (AZ) Chamber of Commerce."

"Great speaker."

"Good, professional presenter."

"Great presentation skills."

"Presenter knew what he was teaching."

"Very knowledgeable, effective, prepared presentation."

"You are truly an inspiration."

"Excellent! Very dynamic speaker. Good material."

"Important to have such a great overview of the current nonprofit climate and the importance of collaboration and partnership."

"Very helpful!"

"Exceeded my expectations!"

"Very Valuable!"

"Good ideasI would have enjoyed more time with Andy."

"He shared common sense ideas and programs from other schools that work well. He gave us inspiration."

"I enjoyed it!"

"I enjoyed the many examples and ideas. Andy provided great feedback to the audience involvement."

"This workshop could not be improved…It was great!"

"Information was brought in abundance."

"Incredible amount of useful information."

"Mr. Ortiz was great! Great ideas were given."

The PowerPoint was great! I requested a copy of the PowerPoint."

"Andy did an excellent job in compiling relevant information."

"Andy was excellent at passing along quality information."

"Andrew Ortiz is a good facilitator."

"Andy Ortiz’ presentation, ‘Stoke The Fire of Passionate Leadership’ gave me inspiration and new ideas."

"I loved Andy’s leadership presentation. The use of historical quotes and figures were effective in getting important points across."


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