Gloria Sanchez McDowell is a proud Arizona native who joined Buckeye Elementary School District (BESD) in August 2023. With more than 25 years of public sector experience spanning Community Services, Social Services, Human Services, and Education; she brings deep expertise to her BESD role as Director of Communications and Community Engagement. Gloria is a bridge builder, bringing people together through strategic public relations, effective communication, and impactful community outreach.

In addition to serving on the All Faith Community Board, she also serves on the Education Foundation for Buckeye Elementary School District Board, and is also an active member of WESTMARC’s Education & Workforce Development Committee. She is a graduate of the City of Buckeye Civic Institute’s Citizen Leadership Program (Class of 2024) and currently part of Leadership West Class XXXI (2025). Deeply rooted in nonprofit work, Gloria is passionate about supporting initiatives that uplift communities and deliver essential resources to those who need them most. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Administration from Northern Arizona University and a Master of Public Administration in Government and Public Policy from Grand Canyon University.