Before joining the Ombudsman’s office, Thomas worked for the Arizona Department of Child Safety (DCS) for almost eight years serving as a Specialist, Program Specialist, and Unit Supervisor. A majority of Thomas’s time with DCS, including his time as a supervisor, was with the After-Hours Investigation Team (AHIT) which responds to emergency reports and communications on nights and weekends.
Melissa Henry joined the office in February 2024 and is serving as Legal Counsel and Dispute Resolution Specialist. Prior to joining the Ombudsman’s office, Melissa spent most of her nearly 25-year career in state and federal government including the U.S. Senate, the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, and the Arizona Department of Economic Security.
Melona joined the Ombudsman team in January of 2025. She is a junior at Arizona State University (ASU) completing her Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Justice studies. She is also completing a certification in Cross Sector Leadership through the Next Generation Service Corps. She is currently serving as an intern
Marwan joined the Ombudsman team in January of 2025. He is a junior at Arizona State University (ASU) pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and an interest in law, policy, and public service. He is currently serving as an intern with the ASU Legislative Internship Program. He is also proficient in Arabic.
Brandon Rosas joined the Ombudsman team in January of 2021. Brandon studied at ASU and received a Bachelor’s in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a certificate in Law and Human Behavior. Brandon is a Spanish speaker.
Connor Mueller joined the Ombudsman team in January of 2022. Connor has a Bachelor’s in Political Science from ASU.
Alicia joined the Ombudsman team in January of 2020. She received a Masters of Legal Studies with an emphasis in Criminal Law and Conflict Resolution. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Arizona State University and is certified as an investigator/inspector by the Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation (CLEAR).
Yvonne Rothblum joined the Ombudsman team in November 2016. Yvonne has worked both in the public and private sector. She worked in the Arizona Commerce Authority (previously known as the Arizona Department of Commerce) and the Arizona Department of Revenue.
Cynthia joined the office in October 2022 after serving almost 7 years with the Arizona State Legislature. Prior to working at the Legislature, she worked in both the private and public sectors. She earned a BS in Psychology, a BA in Public Affairs, and a Master of Public Affairs with a concentration in Justice Studies.
John Wicus joined the office in January of 2018. John has a Bachelor’s of Science in Politics / Global Studies and a minor in European History, and is proficient in American Sign Language.
