Fred DuVal

Fred DuVal is an entrepreneur, civic leader, author, and trusted advisor with a distinguished career in the public and private sectors. As the founder and President of DuVal and Associates, a consulting firm established in 2001, he has helped numerous clients, including major corporations and institutions, navigate the complexities of government affairs, public policy, and regulatory matters. His work spans industries such as healthcare, energy, and education, and his influence extends beyond his advisory role to meaningful contributions to local and national political landscapes. Through his firm, Fred has become known for his ability to guide organizations in shaping effective public policy strategies that align with their goals and the needs of the public.

Throughout his career, Fred has demonstrated a profound commitment to improving his community and enhancing the public sector. His work has focused on fostering collaborations that bridge the gap between business and government to promote policies that will enhance education, economic prosperity, and access to critical services. DuVal’s leadership has been incredibly impactful in his home state of Arizona, where he has helped shape policy across various areas, including education reform, healthcare access, and energy sustainability. His unique ability to lead and advise across sectors has made him highly respected in political and business circles.

DuVal’s Work as Regent, Arizona Board of Regents

Fred DuVal’s dedication to improving Arizona’s educational system is perhaps best demonstrated by his long-standing role on the Arizona Board of Regents. He was first appointed in 2007 and has served multiple terms, making significant contributions to the governance of Arizona’s public universities. His leadership on the Board has centered around improving the quality, accessibility, and affordability of higher education for the people of Arizona. His role as Regent has included advocating for policy changes that align the state’s educational system with its students’ needs and economy.

One of DuVal’s key achievements was co-chairing the “Getting AHEAD” initiative with a community college leader. This initiative led to AZtransfer.com, a nationally recognized platform designed to make it easier for students to transfer credits between Arizona’s community colleges and universities. The platform streamlines the process of credit transfer, allowing students to complete their degrees more efficiently and at a lower cost, addressing one of the most significant barriers to higher education for many students.

Additionally, Fred played a pivotal role in advocating for the creation of the Arizona Teachers Academy, an initiative designed to provide financial incentives for students to become teachers in the state. His efforts focused on addressing Arizona’s teacher shortage by offering scholarships and other incentives to encourage individuals to pursue teaching as a profession. DuVal’s leadership also extended to creating Regents Grants and Regents Community Grants programs, which have provided funding to support educational opportunities across Arizona.

DuVal’s Work in National Politics and the White House

In addition to his significant impact in Arizona, Fred DuVal has a distinguished history of involvement in national politics. From 1997 to 1999, he served as Deputy Assistant to the President for Intergovernmental Affairs in the Clinton administration. In this capacity, he worked directly with state and local governments, liaising between the White House and elected officials nationwide. His role included coordinating policies and programs between the federal and state governments, focusing on welfare reform, transportation funding, and education initiatives.

DuVal was instrumental in developing and implementing several key policy reforms, including the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act of 1996, which reformed the U.S. welfare system. He was also involved in national initiatives to improve education funding and expand access to public transportation. His work in the White House required a deep understanding of national policy and the ability to collaborate with various political leaders, from governors to Congress members.

Before his role in the Clinton administration, he held a senior position at the U.S. Department of State as Deputy Chief of Protocol, where he managed the logistics and diplomatic protocols for foreign leaders’ visits. This role afforded him valuable experience in international relations, which would later inform his work in public service and business.

Appointed Member of the IAF Board of Directors

Fred’s service on the Inter-American Foundation (IAF) board further reflects his commitment to fostering international development. Appointed by President Clinton in 2000, DuVal played a crucial role in overseeing the foundation’s initiatives to provide small grants for grassroots organizations in Latin America and the Caribbean. These organizations promote sustainable development, combat poverty, and address social issues like hunger, violence, and environmental degradation. Through his work with the IAF, he helped expand the foundation’s impact on communities across the hemisphere.

Special Assistant to the Governor

Fred DuVal’s early career in public service included a key role as Special Assistant to the Governor of Arizona, where he managed the Governor’s legislative agenda and served as a liaison with federal agencies. This position gave him invaluable experience in state governance and politics, which laid the groundwork for his later leadership roles in government and business. His understanding of the intricacies of public policy and his ability to navigate complex political environments have been central to his success throughout his career.

DuVal’s political experience also includes managing Governor Bruce Babbitt’s election campaigns, first in 1978 for re-election and later in 1988 when Babbitt ran for president. These experiences were formative in shaping his political acumen and teaching him the importance of effective communication, strategy, and leadership.

Other Activities

In addition to his formal government service, Fred has been involved in various initiatives to address critical public issues, particularly in clean energy and economic development. As a vital advocate for the Pickens Plan, DuVal worked to promote alternative energy sources and reduce the country’s dependence on foreign oil. His involvement in these efforts reflects his forward-thinking approach to solving some of the most pressing issues facing the United States and the global community.

DuVal’s work has also contributed to Arizona’s economic development. He served on the Arizona Commerce Board, helping craft the state’s long-term financial plan and guiding public and private growth. His influence in the business world has been further demonstrated by his advisory roles with numerous companies in the healthcare and infrastructure industries.

DuVal, the Author

Fred is also a prolific author, writing on various topics related to politics, public policy, and community issues. His works include Irons in the Fire, a collection of op-ed articles addressing the most pressing issues facing Arizona and the nation. In Calling Arizona Home, DuVal explores the qualities that make Arizona a unique place to live and work. His writings showcase his deep understanding of the state’s political, economic, and social landscape, reflecting his ongoing commitment to public service and civic engagement.

Civic Leadership

Fred’s contributions to civic life extend beyond his professional career. He has served on the boards of several Arizona organizations focused on improving public health, education, and community development. His leadership roles with organizations such as the University Medical Center and Children’s Action Alliance highlight his dedication to making a difference in his community. Through these efforts, DuVal has worked to ensure that Arizona’s most vulnerable populations have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.

Education

Fred graduated from Occidental College, earning his Bachelor’s degree and being named “Outstanding Senior.” He later earned his Juris Doctor degree from Arizona State University College of Law, which equipped him with the legal expertise to guide his public service and business work. His educational background has been a cornerstone of his career, giving him the tools to tackle complex public policy, law, and governance issues.

His Personal Life

Fred DuVal was born in New Jersey and raised in Tucson, Arizona. He is an avid outdoorsman and has hiked the Grand Canyon each decade for the past five decades, reflecting his love for nature and adventure. He is married to Dr. Jennifer Hecker DuVal, a former Director of Behavioral Health at the Mayo Clinic, and together they have two sons. The family is deeply committed to community service, and his personal and professional life reflects his intense dedication to public service, education, and civic engagement.

Fred’s legacy is leadership, dedication, and service to the public and private sectors. His work has impacted education, public policy, and economic development, particularly in Arizona. His contributions to the state’s educational system, economic prosperity, and civic life have earned him respect across political and business lines, and he continues to be a trusted advisor and leader in the communities he serves.

To Learn More, Visit: Fred DuVal: Why ASU University Research Matters More Than Ever