Daily Inspiration: Meet Raoul Zubia

Today we’d like to introduce you to Raoul Zubia.

Hi Raoul, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I grew up in Scottsdale, back when it was a vastly different place than the city people know today. From grade school through high school, the friendships I made and the lessons I learned in my neighborhood shaped how I saw community. Even then, a city is only as strong as the people willing to step up for one another. That idea stayed with me, led me to study public administration, and eventually guided me into a life of service.

Most of my career was in banking, where I found real satisfaction in helping people build stability, whether through a loan, a first home, or just a plan for the future. When I retired, it did not feel like an ending but a chance to give more time to the city that had given me so much.

That is when I really dove into civic life. On the Human Services Commission—where I eventually served as chair, I worked to shift the view of human services from charity to essential infrastructure. Through Scottsdale Leadership, I graduated with Class 22, later joined the board, and advised new classes, helping connect civic institutions with the next generation of leaders.

By the 2010s and 2020s, my work touched every corner of Scottsdale. At Partners for Paiute, I served as president and strengthened programs for families. On the Coronado Promise Committee, I focused on educational opportunities for neighborhood students. With the Scottsdale Charros, I served on the Education and Donations Committees, helping direct resources into classrooms. And every year, I had the fun of announcing the Parada del Sol parade, celebrating Scottsdale’s history right in the heart of the community.

I also leaned into new challenges. As vice-chair of the Preserve and Protect Scottsdale Task Force, I wrestled with the balance between growth and preservation. In 2022, I ran for City Council, determined to bring that same spirit of service into elected leadership.

Along the way, I have been humbled by recognition. In 2021, I received the Scottsdale Leadership Frank W. Hodges Alumni Achievement Award. In 2024, I was inducted into the Scottsdale History Hall of Fame—a milestone I will always treasure. That same year, I joined the Leading for Change Fellowship, which reminded me that no matter how much you have done, there is always more to look ahead to.

From schoolyards to boardrooms, parade routes to council chambers, my story has always been tied to Scottsdale. Every role, every project, every act of service has been one more way to give back to the city I never left—and never stopped working to make better.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
When I look back, I can honestly say I have been lucky.

I had parents who always supported me, who taught me to work hard and care about others. I have had siblings who have been right there with me through it all, keeping me grounded and reminding me of what matters most.
I have also been blessed with lifelong friends. I grew up with here in Scottsdale who are still part of my life today. That kind of loyalty and history is rare, and I treasure it.

And then there’s Scottsdale itself. This city is not just where I live, it is where my whole story has played out. From classrooms to careers to community service, Scottsdale has been home every step of the way.

So yes, I have been lucky. Lucky to have family, friends, and a community that has given me so much and lucky to spend a lifetime giving back to the place I love.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’ve been retired since 2022.