Catholic Education Arizona is excited to introduce Stephanie Manalis as Marketing Coordinator. Stephanie was happy to accept the Marketing Coordinator role after serving as an intern on the team. “As an intern for a little over a year, I experienced the healthiest workplace environment I have ever witnessed,” she said. “The team has continually built me up and supported me in ways that extend past work duties.” Stephanie shared that she appreciated the graciousness and thoughtfulness in every interaction. “It inspired me to work hard and bring my best to every task.”
Nancy Padberg, MBA, President and CEO, shared, “We are thrilled to have Stephanie join our team full-time. Over the last year, she has been an incredible asset, and we are excited to see her step into this new role. Stephanie will play an important part in helping us share the unique opportunities Arizonans have to support underserved students through Arizona tax credits, charitable donations, and legacy giving.”
This spring, Stephanie earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Professional Writing in New Media from Grand Canyon University. Stephanie brings both passion and a fresh perspective to the role. “As a fresh college graduate who took courses directly on marketing to a younger audience through social media, I can bring a new perspective on how our material is perceived,” she said. “I look forward to being that bridging connection between our audience and the organization.”
Originally from Fort Wayne, Indiana, Stephanie describes her hometown as a small town compared to the sprawling city of Phoenix. She was raised in a half-Hispanic, half-white, Catholic family, an upbringing she credits for shaping the values she carries into adulthood. “Growing up with such a strong family presence has shaped how I navigate life as a young adult, always remembering who I do it all for and the sacrifices they’ve made to get me where I am.”
While Stephanie did not have the opportunity to receive a Catholic education herself, that personal experience deepens her commitment to Catholic Education Arizona’s mission. “Without that support and community, it can be hard to draw near to the church,” she said. “Now, I thankfully have a closer relationship with the church, yet I understand that a faith-filled education would have helped build my faith foundation. Even outside of religious beliefs, a Catholic education instills core values in children and builds them up with positive outlooks om themselves and others. The concept of loving your neighbor extends far beyond the Catholic church and is a great foundation for the next generation.”
“I look forward to continuing to share the mission of Catholic Education Arizona with the community and beyond, expanding our range of help,” Stephanie said. “It is so fulfilling to work at a place that cares so deeply about helping others, especially children who cannot give themselves the help they need.” Please join us in welcoming Stephanie to the Dream Team!
