Tanya Muñiz Receives Business Journal’s “Phoenix 40 under 40” Recognition

Tanya Muñiz, CFO for Valley of the Sun United Way

By: Cindy G. Castillo

Tanya Muñiz, Valley of the Sun United Way’s Chief Financial Officer is among the group of leaders from across the state who have the honor of being selected for the Phoenix Business Journal’s “Phoenix 40 Under 40” award.

“It’s very humbling … and (what) makes me proud and makes me really embrace this award is being able to be that role model that some of us Latinos growing up didn’t have,” she said.

Every year, the Phoenix Business Journal recognizes 40 of the Valley’s up and coming business leaders, who will help shape this community for years to come.

A native from New Mexico, Muñiz currently manages all financial operations for Valley of the Sun United Way.

Today, she has been with the organization for 13 years and leads a team of 20 employees.

“I’m really responsible in ensuring that we’re maximizing all donor dollars and really taking seriously our financials and the generosity of our community,” she said.

Under her leadership as CFO, United Way’s annual budget has been able to grow from $50 million to $114 million in five years, half of which is from complex grants.

Tanya along with her 16-year-old son Jacob

“Throughout the years, it has really been (about) keeping up with the changes … and understanding that sometimes the needs of the community go beyond those resources,” she said.

Among other qualities, Muñiz also demonstrates her leadership in the community through numerous organizations including Valley Leadership, Hispanic Leadership Institute and the New Pathways for Youth and Pop Warner Football.

“It’s something that I’ve naturally grown a passion for. I see through my son and his friends how much sports really help kids stay focused and stay out of trouble. It’s a vision of what they can do in the future.”

Tanya is a dedicated single mother and a committed advocate for youth. She understands the issues faced by many individuals in our community through both her work at United Way and through volunteer experience.

Additionally, Tanya serves on United Way Worldwide’s Hispanic Task Force and Financial Committee and was named Arizona’s Nonprofit CFO of the Year last year.

In the future, she hopes to continue to grow as a professional in her role as CFO.