This fall, Catholic Education Arizona welcomes three new members to the Board of Directors.  Learn more about Carol Trueg and Nancy Dougherty and their commitment to the mission and purpose of CEA.

Carol Trueg

A native of Dubuque, IA, Carol Trueg and her husband Mike recently relocated to the Phoenix area, where she serves as a financial advisor with Edward Jones. Prior to re-careering in the financial services industry, Carol spent 36 years in Eastern Iowa Catholic schools as teacher, coach, journalism moderator, technology director, associate principal, principal, president and chief administrator. She also served a four-year term on the Iowa Board of Educational Examiners.

Carol holds a BA in English and secondary education from Clarke University and an MA in Planning, Policy and Leadership from the University of Iowa. She is a proud stepmom to Mike’s three children and grandma to his eight grandchildren. She is a lector at their parish, St. Thomas More in Glendale, and an avid golfer, hiker, and reader.

Current Title, Role, Professional Affiliation: Financial Advisor, Edward Jones

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to Catholic schools?

In my years as an administrator in Iowa, I  saw first-hand the impact of Iowa’s School Tuition Organization Program. The benefits went far beyond the financial—which were extensive—as our communities became much more diverse, giving a broader societal view to all students. The STO also helped to sustain enrollment, a critical metric for all Catholic schools. Catholic Education Arizona affords Arizona’s Catholic schools equally important benefits.

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to families?

Because they are the primary educators of their children, parents need to be able to choose the best educational setting for their children. Catholic Education Arizona opens the possibility of a Catholic education to them so their children can realize the improved outcomes for students that have been documented in study after study. In addition, families have the opportunity to experience and belong to the faith-centered community that makes a Catholic-school education so powerful.

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to you?

I may have re-careered, but my heart remains in Catholic education. That’s because, every day, Catholic schools are striving to inspire the formation of disciples of Jesus Christ. That primary mission—above academic or co-curricular success—justifies the investment parents, parishes, and benefactors make in Catholic education. I love my Catholic faith and want to invest my efforts into an organization that will help to sustain the faith long after I am gone. Catholic Education Arizona is that organization.

Nancy Dougherty

Current Title, Role, Professional Affiliation(s): Director in Human Resources at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to Catholic schools?

Catholic Education Arizona makes it possible for many children to attend a Catholic school who would not otherwise be able to afford this education.  The school and community benefit not only by an increased enrollment but also by educating students of all backgrounds.   

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to families?

There are many families who desire that their children attend a Catholic school but who unfortunately cannot afford the tuition.  So many parents pray for the opportunity that their children attend a Catholic school to experience the quality education, sharing of faith and supportive community.  Catholic Education Arizona’s mission of providing a Catholic education to the underserved families in Arizona helps make this dream a reality for these families.

Why is Catholic Education Arizona important to you?

Our four children have all attended Catholic school and, in fact, some from kindergarten through college. I believe very strongly in Catholic education not only because of how it brings faith into the classroom but also because of the incredible community which I believe makes the learning environment a much more productive and positive one. Catholic educated students are well rounded, dedicated, faith filled and very successful.  I truly believe that all children should have the option to attend a Catholic school regardless of their economic situation and CEA helps give every child this opportunity.