\Since 1998, Catholic Education Arizona has provided critical tuition scholarships to thousands of underserved students to change lives, serve society, and transform culture. Behind this mission stands Caitlin Wooten, Vice President, Finance & Compliance, helping students access these scholarships.

“By working at Catholic Education Arizona, I put my beliefs into action by providing scholarship opportunities to families that could not otherwise afford their school of choice,” Caitlin said. “I believe every parent should have the right to send their children to the school that fits their children’s needs best.”

Thousands of families in the Diocese of Phoenix each year can choose Catholic education because the scholarships make it affordable. ”I help oversee about 3,500 scholarships a year. Scholarship applications shine a light on the various struggles families are enduring today,” Caitlin said.

Through Arizona Private Education and Corporate Tax Credits, planned gifts, and donations, Catholic Education Arizona opens doors for students, transforming lives and communities. The Diocese of Phoenix Catholic Schools has seen outstanding outcomes:

  • 99% graduation rate 
  • 96% matriculation to higher education, trade school, or enter military service
  • 1000s of hours of community service conducted annually

A quality education prepares students to be future leaders and change-makers in their community.  “At a young age, you learn the value of community service, which naturally carries on throughout your lifetime. Your impact on your community is stronger because of your Catholic foundation,” Caitlin said.

Changing Lives One Scholarship at a Time 

“After my undergraduate years at a Catholic university, I learned that a Catholic education inspires you to be more by living with a values-first mindset,” Caitlin added. Catholic Education Arizona believes every family should have access to the best-fit education for their children. 

Since 1998, Catholic Education Arizona has raised $363 million and provided over 157,000 scholarships to underserved students. To help fund scholarships for underserved families this year, visit ceaz.org or call (602) 218-6542 to learn more.

Catholic Education Arizona is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit charitable organization and has never accepted gifts designated for individuals. Per state law, a school tuition organization cannot award, restrict or reserve scholarships solely on the basis of donor recommendation. A taxpayer may not claim a tax credit if the taxpayer agrees to swap donations with another taxpayer to benefit either taxpayer’s own dependent.