Children’s Action Alliance Selects January Contreras as New CEO

Children’s Action Alliance has named January Contreras to lead the organization as its new Chief Executive Officer. Contreras, a national and Arizona leader who has dedicated her career to strengthening the well-being and safety of children and families, will step into the role on December 11.

"The board is excited about the next chapter of the Children’s Action Alliance with January Contreras at the helm," said Ayensa Millan, Chair, Board of Directors. "January has built a record of leadership across the country and Arizona that is focused squarely on thriving children and families. She is uniquely qualified to lead the organization successfully into the future."

"I have seen the power of community advocacy drive policy that truly makes a difference for children and families, and I can’t wait to lead these efforts here in my home state with the Children’s Action Alliance,” said Contreras.

January Contreras most recently served as the Assistant Secretary for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, appointed by the President, and confirmed with bi-partisan support in the U.S. Senate. As the Assistant Secretary, she worked to strengthen child care accessibility; child welfare prevention and safety; and economic stability supports in cities, towns, and tribal communities across the country that support the ability of families to not just safely survive, but to thrive.

January is a former non-profit executive who led an Arizona legal aid center. Prior to that, January worked for the Honorable Janet Napolitano as a cabinet member and an advisor. Her public service history includes serving as assistant director at the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and interim director of the Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS). Contreras earned her undergraduate and law degrees at the University of Arizona.

January’s heart for service, experience influencing policy, and record of leading change for the well-being of children and families will undoubtedly lead Children’s Action Alliance and the Arizona Center for Economic Progress to new heights.