Have You Met?

Have You Met Deborah Bateman? 

As a champion of the community and an advocate for women, Deborah Bateman serves as a leader for a number of important nonprofits in Phoenix.

“I became involved with the Arizona Arthritis Foundation when they approached me to chair their annual fundraising gala – Oscar Night America.  After researching the organization, meeting the local leaders and team, and understanding the incredible contribution that our local Arthritis Foundation chapter makes to our community to improve lives through leadership in the prevention, control and cure of arthritis and related diseases, I knew that this was something I had to do. I believe that I’ve developed a reputation as a leader who can accomplish things, and while there is work and time and commitment involved in the leadership of a fundraiser like this, I received so much back, including, but not limited to knowing that we have made a difference. I feel honored to have been asked to serve with them!”    

Deborah is a member of the board for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. This organization’s mission is to find a cure for diabetes and its complications through the support of research. Their annual Walk to Cure Diabetes is the largest family friendly walk in America.

“I’m also involved with the Board of the Phoenix ATHENAPowerLink, which is hosted by the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce. Since 1999, ATHENAPowerlink  has been an advisory and mentoring program designed to increase the growth and profitability of women-owned businesses. For one year, we serve as an advisory board to a woman-owned business and advise and help them to effectively network, access capital, and implement the best practices with which we are familiar. The results can be amazingly satisfying.”

On the board for the Arizona Foundation for Women, Bateman says this group identifies issues that affect all Arizona women. “Our mission is to promote innovative solutions to fulfill the unmet needs of Arizona’s Women and Children.  AFW has been instrumental in providing resources and solutions to the problems of domestic violence and child abuse.  This year, The Arizona Foundation for Women sponsored the Sandra Day O’Connor Award Luncheon , which honored Dr. Madeline Albright, former Secretary of State. “The luncheon was an incredible inspiration, having the opportunity to meet and hear Madeline Albright was just awesome!”

Deborah Bateman is a second generation Arizona native. “My  grandparents migrated to the desert in the 1920’s for their health, as many people did in that era.  It must have worked--they all lived into their 80s and 90s!  I love the Arizona climate and the natural diversity of our state. I especially appreciate our history, and am proud of the fact that we are a state of growth and change.”  The Batemans have traveled the globe--from Europe, to China and all over the North American continent.  “I’ve tried to become a golfer because my husband and daughter are great golfers, and it seems that most destinations involve a golf course! Even though I’m just a little 'ol gal from Phoenix, Arizona, I’ve been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel, see the world, and recognize how truly fortunate we are to live in the United States of America.”

As Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing at National Bank of Arizona, Deborah is able to use her position as an agent of change. “We are a fabulous bank, in step with modern technology and initiatives, but totally focused on relationships and helping our communities thrive. I LOVE my job, and am excited that I can help effect positive change in our community.”  Deborah was elected to the Bank’s Board of Directors in April, 2009. 

Thus revealing one secret to her success, Deborah admits, “I’m a change agent. I embrace change, and try to begin to adapt and evolve even before a new opportunity presents itself. I embrace the new technologies, and believe that keeping up with everything new enables me to think young! In fact, I believe that I come by this genetically. For example, I needed to get a Facebook account when I joined the Arizona Foundation for Women.  After working the first evening on my site, I got up the next morning and already had four friend requests, one of which was my 78 year old mother! She was ahead of me, already an established patron of the site, using it to keep up with her friends and grandkids.”

The Phoenix community is richer for having Deborah Bateman's advocacy and leadership!

What are your volunteer activities? The Arthritis Foundation, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, Athena Power Link, Arizona Foundation for Women, and events supported and sponsored by National Bank of Arizona

Which social event is your favorite? The Arthritis Foundation's "Oscar Night America"

Favorite restaurant?  Houstons

Who is your hero and why?  My husband and partner, Tim Bateman.  He has the most amazing capacity for patience, tolerance, faith, love, and forgiveness.

Who is the most interesting celebrity you have ever met?  Margaret Thatcher

If your life were a movie, whom would you want to play your part?  The strong, feminine, and funny, Jamie Lee Curtis

What gives a woman/man style?  Confidence

Do you have any Pets?  Gracie - a black Labrador Retriever, Calli  and Oscar - miniature longhaired dachshunds and Felix the cat.

When you move, what will your home tell its next owner, about you?  That the house was always full of love. 

What's the best lesson you're learned through the years?   Happiness doesn't come as a result of getting something you don't have, but rather of recognizing and appreciating what you do have.

What words would you like others to use to describe you?  Generous and caring

What was your first job?  Bank Teller

What is the trait you most deplore in others?  Laziness

What is your greatest indulgence? Travel

What is the greatest gift you have ever given and received?  It would have to my daughter, Tara.

What is your current state of mind? Enthusiastically optimistic

What do you consider to be your greatest achievement?  Living a wonderful, happy, and blessed life.

What is your most treasured possession? An old black and white photograph of my Grandfather and me.

What is the quality you most like in people?  Respectful and caring of others.

Favorite books / Writers?    Biographies and autobiographies, especially of strong women ---a spectrum that ranges from Marilyn Monroe to Georgia O'Keefe to Indira Gandhi.

What is the best advice you have ever received?  "Always do more than what is expected."