Alumni Testimonial: Kate Tax
Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral School – ‘19,
Xavier College Preparatory- ‘23,
Creighton University- ‘27
Background:
I was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona. I was raised by my mother Christine, and my father Christopher. I have a younger Brother named Connor who is a rising Junior at Brophy College Preparatory. I attended Saint Simon and Jude Cathedral School where I graduated in 2019 and then proceeded to attend Xavier College Preparatory. I now am a rising Sophmore at Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska. I am majoring in Psychology on the Pre-Occupational Therapy Track with a minor in Health Administration and Policy. Since coming to college I have been a part of campus ministry, new student orientation, and weekly service at various omaha non-profits. Some of my hobbies include cooking, hanging out with friends, playing pickleball, and trying out new coffee shops!
What impact did Catholic schools have on you and your family?
Catholic schools have profoundly shaped both my life and that of my family. Attending Ss. Simon and Jude Cathedral School (SSJ), the same school where my mom and my aunts and uncles attended, instilled in me the importance of community and family. It made me acutely aware of the deep, lasting impact SSJ has had on our family, bringing us together across generations. I met my lifelong friends at SSJ and they are still a part of my everyday life. I was lucky enough to attend High School with them as well. At Xavier, I learned the powerful influence of faith among women. I came to understand that women play an essential role in life and that we are worthy of achieving amazing things. Xavier also taught me the true meaning of excellence—not as a pursuit of perfection but as the commitment to always try my best in everything I do. These lessons have been foundational, shaping who I am today and guiding the values I hold dear. Now attending Creighton University in Omaha Nebraska, I realize that I could not imagine my life without the aspect of Catholic Education. The jesuit values run strong at Creighton and I am so happy to be apart of them . I have been so well prepared academically and spiritually for this place. I was accepted to Creighton, received almost a full ride scholarship, and accepted into the Freshman Leadership program and have enough credits from high School to be considered a Junior my Freshman Year. My experience here has been amazing and since I had the aspect of community instilled in me at such a young age, I have become involved in many activities on Campus. I want to share my love of Catholic Schools and my faith with as many people as possible.
What Challenges/Obstacles, over the years, were you able to overcome that you would attribute to your Catholic education and Faith?
Catholic schools have been a cornerstone in my life, particularly during the most challenging times, like the passing of my grandparents. The strong sense of community and faith instilled in me at St. Simon and Jude School and Xavier helped me navigate the grief and find joy in the caretaking I was privileged to
provide for them. Both communities showed up in incredible ways during those difficult times, offering support, love, and a reminder of the strength that comes from faith. I am profoundly grateful for the ways these schools not only shaped my values but also stood by me and my family when we needed it the most.
What is one or two special memories of your Catholic School Experience that you would like to share?
One of my favorite memories from my Catholic School experience was having the honor of leading the Kairos retreat at Xavier. This experience not only lead me to deepen my faith, but helped me guide many of my peers closer to the Lord. This retreat brought me closer to many of my classmates and I am forever grateful for the leadership skills and self confidence this opportunity provided me. It affirmed my passion for ministry and laid a continuous solid foundation in my faith especially before coming to college. Kairos will always hold such a place in my heart #LT4!
Accomplishments:
Deans Honor Roll my first year of college
Accepted into Creighton’s Freshman Leadership Program
Received my associate’s degree through dual enrollment at Rio Salado upon highschool graduation
Was selected as a Summer Orientation Guide and a Welcome Week Orientation Leader for the 2024 school year
Kairos Leader at Xavier College Preparatory 2022-2023 Recipient of the Ignatian Scholarship at Creighton University
