Queen Creek resident is new CEO of area Big Brothers Big Sisters

A Queen Creek resident has been appointed the new head of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona.

Debbie Castillo-Smith was named the organization’s chief executive officer on Thursday.

She had been serving as interim CEO since April, “providing steady leadership, strategic direction and a deep commitment to the agency’s mission during this transition period. In her permanent role, she will continue guiding the organization into its next chapter of growth, impact and innovation,” a press release stated. 

Castillo-Smith has been part of the BBBSAZ since September 2007 and served in a variety of roles including working directly with matches, recruiting volunteers and facilitating trainings for volunteers, parents/guardians and staff.

“Debbie has dedicated 25 years of service to our community through BBBS and truly lives and breathes this mission. She’s been a Big Sister five times and continues to mentor her current Little Sister in our site-based program,” Matt Manoogian, chair of the BBBSAZ board of directors, stated in the release. “Debbie is already making a tremendous impact, and I can’t wait to see all she accomplishes in this new role.” 

Castillo-Smith graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in family studies and nonprofit leadership and management. She completed the Generation Next Nonprofit Leadership Academy, graduated from the ASU Leadership Institute and was honored as a Sun Devil 100 in 2024. 

“I want to extend my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to serve as the next CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona,” Castillo-Smith stated in the release. “I am committed to leading with transparency, accountability and heart as we build on our momentum and move BBBSAZ into its next chapter of growth and impact.”