Just when life was getting settled, another major change came. After 21 years with Host Hotels & Resorts, Jim was named CEO, president & director in 2016. “That was the catalyst for me to say, I have to not practice so much,” Risoleo said. “He was able to move here in 2010, and it’s been amazing. Lucky, lucky me.” Gratitude flows easily for Risoleo, who celebrates life’s markers and milestones. So two years ago when she was asked to chair the 2024 Phoenix Heart Ball and a remarkable number of anniversaries aligned, it was an opportunity she could not pass. The annual gala to benefit the American Heart Association is always steeped in history and significance — but this year Risoleo would be turning 65, and it would also be the 65 th Phoenix Heart Ball and the 100 th anniversary of the American Heart Association. Risoleo asked Jim what he thought about taking on the massive commitment. “Do it,” he said. “You’ll be 65 for the 65 th , and you’ve been passionate about this cause for 32 years. Check the box.” Fast-forward to today, when Risoleo is managing the myriad details of the upcoming bash and, unsurprisingly, leaning on her research skills. “I thought that for 65 years of the Heart Ball and 100 years of AHA, I can really celebrate the traditions of both of those together,” she said. Because she has been involved with the organization so long, she is unearthing and incorporating past elements. “Many of the past Heart Ball chairmen are dear friends of mine, so I’ve been able to experience beautiful traditions that they established,” she said. Risoleo is glad that a new generation of supporters is embracing the charity and is excited about the event — “and not just the hoopla about it, but raising the money,” she said. Jim has stepped up in a major way, too. “His support of me this year is unbelievable,” Risoleo said. “He has rallied his friends, companies and contacts, and raised so much money for me.” As chair, Risoleo is drawing on many of her skills as a lawyer, emphasizing the importance The Risoleos’s blended family includes their five children, their spouses and four grandchildren, Lincoln, Ben, Quinn and Jack. “There’s nothing better than them,” Risoleo said. 36 | FRONTDOORS MAGAZINE

Heartfelt Numbers 100 YEARS STRONG The American Heart Association is celebrating its 100 th anniversary this year. For a century, AHA has been at the forefront of promoting heart health, educating the public about heart disease prevention and supporting those affected by cardiovascular conditions. 65 YEARS OF GIVING The Phoenix Heart Ball, one of the largest and oldest charities in Phoenix, marks its 65 th year of supporting AHA’s mission. Every year, this iconic gala raises critical funds for groundbreaking heart research and life-saving education. LOOKING AHEAD As they celebrate these major milestones, the AHA and its network of volunteers, donors and partners remain committed to a future filled with health, hope and longer lives. Here’s to another century of heart! Learn more at heart.org . of clear, honest communication, respect for all, and following through on commitments. “I’m a big agenda person,” she said. “You learn those skills from writing briefs and arguing in court.” Though her to-do list now includes auction items instead of affidavits and invitations rather than closing statements, her commitment to doing good has remained. “Those days with the firm were fabulous, but I was giving back all that time, too. I really do care,” she said. It’s the tail end of October and Risoleo is preparing for life to get intense, with final preparations for the Heart Ball in November and major family milestones to follow next year. “I think that the thing I’m most proud about in my life is that I always put family first,” she said. And with kids and spouses scattered across the country — Cathy and Keith, Lauren and Russ, Teddy and Lauren, and four grandchildren in California; Christian and Heather in Washington, D.C.; and Elizabeth and Richie in New York City — family reunions are precious. “Jim turns 70 next year,” she said. “So, Heart Ball is in November, Liz’s wedding is in April, and Christian and Heather are getting married in the Bahamas in May. So I have two weddings next year! And I want to do something special for Jim’s 70 th , because he turned 65 during COVID, so he deserves a celebration.” Milestone after milestone, Risoleo channels her energy and intellect to balance her life, family and career. And in true “Velvet Hammer” style, she plans it all out with kindness, respect and exquisite preparation. 2024 Heart Ball leadership team, left to right, sweetheart Kimberly Afkhami, vice chairman DeeDee Vecchione, chairman Pamela Risoleo, vice chairman Diane O’Malley, honorary chairman Laurie Florkiewicz and chairman-elect Patricia Watts. Risoleo with her daughter, Liz.