Keri Silvyn

Partner & Owner, Lazarus & Silvyn

By Tiffany Kjos

Keri Silvyn helps oversee millions of dollars in spending for everything from travel to education, so you might say she has a bit of influence.

A successful attorney – she is partner and owner of Lazarus & Silvyn, which has offices in Tucson and Phoenix – Silvyn serves on two high-profile entities in the state.

Silvyn, who has three children with her husband, Jeff, is chair of the Tucson Airport Authority, which has 53 members and manages Tucson International Airport and Ryan Airfield. TAA celebrates its 75th anniversary this year.

She also sits on the board of three other organizations, including the United Way of Tucson and Southern Arizona Foundation Capital Corporation, and is a member of three more.

“Clearly I have a problem saying no to people, especially when it has to do with economic development and really moving things forward because my law practice focuses on zoning and land use,” said Silvyn. “Representing developers and property owners to move major projects forward in the community is a passion of mine.”

Silvyn also represents the region on the Arizona State Land Board of Appeals. she was appointed by then-Gov. Doug Ducey in 2014, after his nomination and interviews with the Senate Confirmation Committee. The State Land Department leases and sells state land, with proceeds predominantly spent on education.

“I love this stuff and it’s not difficult to find time for the things that you love,” Sylvin said.

She often encourages her law firm clients and others to take advantage of the Tucson airport, which is closer and easier to navigate than Phoenix’s Sky Harbor airport. “When they try it once, they’re like, ‘Whoa,’” she said.

 “She is a great thought partner,” said TAA CEO Danette Bewley. “What I mean by that is that I can come and talk to her about issues that are airport-related and have a really good conversation, and we can brainstorm about the approach to an issue or ideas or even best solutions.” 

“She’s got amazing energy, she’s super thoughtful, and she’s strategic,” Bewley added.

A graduate of Saguaro High School in Scottsdale, Silvyn earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona and a law degree from UArizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law.

“I love Southern Arizona and Tucson, and I really want it to be the best of itself,” Silvyn said. “I want to help that to happen, and that is underlying everything I do.”