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Meet Our Incoming President and CEO: Robert Ojeda, Ph.D.

We are excited to introduce Robert Ojeda, Ph.D., who will be joining Pima Council on Aging (PCOA) as the new President and CEO starting on March 4, 2025. Robert brings with him over 30 years of experience in the nonprofit sector and a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of communities in Southern Arizona.

A Deep Connection to Tucson and Southern Arizona

Originally from Peru, Robert moved to the United States in 1989 to pursue his higher education. He earned a Ph.D. in Adult & Extension Education from Cornell University, and throughout his career, he has worked in various roles that have deepened his connection to Southern Arizona. Robert has spent most of his professional life in Tucson, where he served as Chief Program Officer at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, playing a key role in programs that supported vulnerable populations. He also held leadership positions at Pima College Adult Education and Literacy Volunteers of Tucson, both of which focused on improving community outcomes. These roles have helped him build a strong understanding of the unique needs and opportunities in Southern Arizona. Robert is well-established in the nonprofit sector and has forged meaningful relationships with local community partners. His long history in the region gives him an invaluable perspective on the community’s needs, and he is excited to return home and continue making an impact.

Building Relationships and Strengthening Community Partnerships

Robert’s leadership philosophy emphasizes collaboration, both within PCOA and with external partners. He believes that organizations thrive when their teams and community partners are engaged, supported, and empowered to contribute their unique strengths. His focus is on building lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with existing and potential partners across the community, from local nonprofits to government agencies, businesses, and beyond. By fostering these partnerships, Robert aims to ensure PCOA continues to meet the evolving needs of older adults in Southern Arizona while creating a unified, impactful network of support.

Supporting Older Adults: A Personal and Professional Mission

Having worked across various sectors, including his most recent role as CEO of Food Lifeline in Seattle, Robert is passionate about supporting older adults. He first encountered PCOA’s work during his tenure at the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona, where he saw firsthand the critical impact of services for older adults in the community. He was deeply impressed by PCOA’s commitment to innovation and its ability to make a tangible difference in the lives of those it serves.

Reflecting on his past experience at the Food Bank, Robert shared his thoughts on PCOA’s role in the community:

“During my time at the Community Food Bank, I saw how PCOA was making a meaningful impact on the lives of older adults in Southern Arizona. I’ve always believed in the power of community partnerships, and PCOA’s ability to bring together local organizations to support older adults was inspiring. I’m excited to build on this work and strengthen our collective impact moving forward.”
– Robert Ojeda

As PCOA’s new President and CEO, Robert is focused on building on the organization’s strengths, particularly its ability to meet the needs of older adults at both the individual and community levels. He plans to focus on deepening partnerships, engaging with local organizations, and ensuring that PCOA continues to be a trusted resource for older adults and their families.

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Robert is committed to supporting PCOA’s mission by continuing to provide innovative solutions for older adults and by fostering a culture where community partnerships flourish. He values the wisdom and experience of older adults and believes that integrating their insights into community planning will benefit the entire region.

Personal Interests

Outside of his professional life, Robert is an avid soccer player and enjoys playing Andean folk music. He also loves spending time with his family, including their three energetic dogs.