A Catholic education changes lives even beyond the classroom. Angel Moreno is an example of how a Catholic education prepares students for college and beyond. During the 2024 Scholars Luncheon, Xavier College Preparatory alumnus, Angel Moreno, shared her Catholic school experience with Arizona tax credit contributors and Changing Lives with Legacy donors. Angel’s journey has been shaped by the generosity of our donors and the support of Catholic education.

Among those inspired by Angel’s story was Clark Clattanoff, Senior Transportation Engineer at Horrocks Engineering, who felt moved to secure a talented engineer.

Career Opportunities through Catholic Connections

“After the event, I gave Angel my contact information,” Clark shared. “She got in touch with me and came to our office for nearly a 2-1/2-hour visit. She loved it!”

That meeting led to an incredible opportunity. Angel joined Clark’s team at Horrocks Engineering as an intern. This internship will not only provide Angel with valuable hands-on experience but also surround her with a faith-filled work environment. “My internship at Horrocks Engineering has been an invaluable opportunity to gain real-world experience across various civil engineering fields, allowing me to grow within a profession I’m passionate about,” Angel said.

“I am deeply grateful that my Catholic education at Xavier provided me with the core values and skills that prepared me for this internship, and it also directly led to this opportunity,” she said.

How Catholic Education Prepared Angel for Her Career

Angel’s story is a powerful reminder that the impact of Catholic education does not end at graduation, it’s a foundation for life. “Just as Xavier empowered me to embrace my identity and voice, especially as a young Hispanic woman in a field where representation matters, the emphasis on service, integrity, and critical thinking shaped my engagement and contributions during this experience,” she said.

“The consistent encouragement to strive for excellence, alongside the strong sense of community and ethical responsibility nurtured at Xavier, laid the very foundation for my success beyond high school while strengthening my faith,” Angel shared.

Thank you to our contributors and Changing Lives with Legacy donors who make it possible for students like Angel to attend Catholic school. Together, we are changing lives, serving society, and transforming culture one scholarship at a time. To learn more, call our office at (602) 218-6542.