Councilmember Benita Beckles is a retired Air Force Colonel who served 30 years as a commissioned officer, including seven years on active duty and 23 years in the Air Force Reserves. During her distinguished military career, she held leadership roles overseeing security forces, human resources, information technology, administration, recreation, food services, civil engineering, firefighting, and transportation/logistics operations.

As a military commander, Benita played a significant leadership role during major national events, including the deployment of her unit during the Gulf War and serving as the command post commander during the events of September 11, 2001.

In addition to her military service, Benita dedicated more than 20 years to municipal government service. She worked as a Human Resources Manager for the City of Detroit and later worked as a Human Resources professional for the City of Phoenix.

Community Leadership and Service

Benita is deeply committed to community engagement and leadership development. She completed the Goodyear Leadership Enrichment and Development (LEAD) program and the Citizens Police Academy.

She previously served as a Commissioner and Vice Chair of the Goodyear Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission and participated in the Goodyear Community Action Network (CAN), collaborating with the Goodyear Police Department on national and local law enforcement issues. She also served on the Goodyear Juneteenth Planning Committee.

Benita currently serves on the Board of the Southwest Valley YMCA in Goodyear.

She is an active member of several organizations, including:

  • Tuskegee Airmen, Inc. – Archer-Ragsdale Arizona Chapter
  • Military Officers Association of America – Luke Chapter
  • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. – Arizona West Valley Chapter
  • 40+ Double Dutch Goodyear Sub Club

Education

Benita earned a master’s degree from George Washington University and a bachelor’s degree from Hampton University.

Family and Community

Benita has proudly called Goodyear home since 2013 and resides in the Estrella community of CantaMia. She attends Purpose Church in Goodyear.

She is the proud mother of two sons and grandmother of six grandchildren. Her family resides in Michigan and Florida.

 Commitment to Public Service

Councilmember Beckles brings a lifetime of military leadership, municipal government experience, and civic involvement to the City of Goodyear. Her leadership is grounded in service, integrity, accountability, and a commitment to strengthening the community for current and future generations.