Our Staff

Karl E. Gentles, APR, MBA
Executive Director
Karl Gentles is the executive director of Back to School Clothing Drive. With more than 20 years of corporate, political, and nonprofit public relations experience, Gentles has helped shape public relations strategies for a number of Arizona’s most recognized organizations including the Greater Phoenix Economic Council, Bank One, USAA, The NFL Experience, Bank of the West, Essex Credit, Fisher Industries, Midwestern University, and many others. Gentles began his career as a staff assistant to U.S. Senator John McCain. In his role as executive director of Back to School Clothing Drive, Gentles and his board raised nearly one million dollars in 2010 and is leading the effort to increase the organization’s sustainability. Current projects underway include identifying and acquiring a permanent office facility for the organization, establishing an endowment fund, expanding the Student Attire for Education (SAFE) school uniform matching grant program, developing an online retail store, and expanding its signature program – the Annual Distribution event held each July. In 2009 the charity launched an online retail store attracting over 100 school customers. Back to School enjoys the support of some of the most influential foundation sin the Valley including BHHS Legacy Foundation, The Stardust Foundation, Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, and others.
A graduate of Arizona State University, Gentles earned his degree in organizational communication, and has a master’s degree in business administration from the W.P. Carey School of Business. He holds an accreditation in public relations (APR) from the Public Relations Society of America. He is the current president of the Public Relations Society of America Phoenix chapter, a member of the PRSA National Advocacy Advisory Board, National Association of Black Journalists, a director of the Phoenix Industrial Development Authority, member of the Fiesta Bowl Committee, and member of Sigma Pi Phi Gamma Mu Boule fraternity.

Jean Pegler
Program Administrator

Back To School Clothing Drive is fortunate to have the support and leadership of Jean Pegler, who originally joined Back To School while employed with Intel. Since retiring, Jean has continued her commitment to the organization. She has served on the Board of Directors, including a term as Treasurer. Since 2008 she has been an integral part of the agency’s daily operations, providing vital administrative and support services for the Executive Director, Board, and community volunteers. In 2009 Pegler took over management of the SAFE program handling all merchandise ordering, shipping, delivery, and inventory working closely with Back to School vendors, partners, and participating schools. Testimonials from school partners show Pegler with accolades for her attention to detail, follow-up and strong customers service. A passionate advocate for children and schools, Pegler delivers superior value and customer service to partner schools, donors, and volunteers.