Therese Uthke
Co-founder, Executive Director, President
Board Member Since 2025
Therese Uthke, is a co-founder, Executive Director/President of Parkinson Mentors Arizona (PMAZ) and has been since 2024. She is a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) at the Muhammad Ali Movement Disorders Center at Barrow Neurological Institute and has worked with individuals with Parkinson’s disease for the past 13 years. Through Therese’s work as an SLP, she identified the need for mentorship for people living with Parkinson’s disease. Therese has helped develop the framework and professional image of PMAZ, spearheaded PMAZ's transition to a nonprofit, and developed and maintains the organization's website. Therese remains deeply committed to the mission of PMAZ, advancing community engagement and providing meaningful support and empowerment to individuals living with Parkinson's disease.
Shannon Jameson,
Co-founder, Vice President, Secretary
Board Member Since 2025
Shannon Jameson, PT, DPT, MBA is a co-founder, Vice President and Secretary of Parkinson Mentors Arizona (PMAZ) and has been since 2024. Shannon has worked as a Physical Therapist at the Muhammad Ali Movement Disorders Center at Barrow Neurological Institute for over 10 years where she has developed a deep commitment for improving the lives of people living with Parkinson’s Disease. In the role of Vice President and Secretary, Shannon is dedicated to advancing the nonprofit’s vision of empowering people with Parkinson’s through meaningful mentorship, community engagement, and ongoing support.
Thomas Ronan
Treasurer
Board Member Since 2025
Thomas Ronan is a retired physician, a native Arizonan, and a Parkinson’s mentor. He has served on several boards of varying size and complexity. In addition to his work as a mentor, he volunteers at the local library and serves as a docent at Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Tom is excited to facilitate the growth of PMAZ, and is grateful for all the advice and connections he has received in his own journey with Parkinson’s Disease
Julie Garrett
Board Member Since 2025
I worked in different areas within Human Resources, specializing in the Benefits, Compensation, and Human Resources Information Systems (HRIS). I reviewed and presented proposals for innovative programs to senior management.
I volunteer at Rock Steady Boxing-Gilbert, serving as an assistant coach, teaching classes, and designing weekly workout plans.
At church, I teach classes such as Emotional Resilience and Strengthening Marriages. I complete acts of service such as taking meals to families in need, celebrating birthdays, and performing simple acts of kindness. I have held leadership positions in small and large congregations.
In retirement, I keep busy with volunteer work (including the Parkinson’s Foundation), and my passions such as family, teaching, quilting, and crafts.
David Watkins
Board Member Since 2025