Michael Sayegh
During these times, I feel our Catholic leadership is vital in Proclaiming the good news and truth about the Catholic faith and the importance of the sacraments. Being led by the Holy Spirit we are called to engage with our community and to Bring healing hope and justice to those who have open ears. TLI has utilized great tools and speakers especially in connecting like-minded Catholics. Our strength lies in [...]
Luis Sanchis
I commit to helping establish or support a mental health organization that will advocate, facilitate, and provide affordable services in Southern California. These resources will be specialized in connecting Catholics with mental health professionals that provide services within the context of human dignity as understood in the Catholic Magisterium.
Isabel Sanchez
In Pew Research Center telephone surveys conducted in 2018 and 2019, people who described their religious identity as atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular,” now stands at 26% in the United States, up from 17% in 2009. And for every one convert to Catholicism, there are six who switch to another religion. My leadership commitment is to strengthen my formation by asking the tough questions. It’s when these doubts are [...]
Bryan Ruiz
My Jesuit education provided me with the tools to think conscientiously, be driven by integrity, bold and courageous in my convictions, and to always be compassionate. I commit to upholding these standards so that my future decisions are firmly rooted in positively impacting the world. TLI has educated me on the value of virtuous leadership as a lay Catholic professional and how to best apply that to the Church and [...]
Jose Rodriguez
Here is my Leadership Commitment. Because I care as a Financial & Health Insurance Advocate, Vice-President of Amor x Teco Foundation, Board Member of Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce, Board Member of the Organization for the Physically Impaired and Blind, Founder and CEO of Optimized Financial and Insurance Services; I commit to be a Catholic Advocate, Leader, Moral, Ethical and Holistic Financial Educator Becoming a Trusting Loving and Giving Servant in [...]
Catherine Rivadeneyra
Today, in society, many young women have lost their true identity, self-esteem, and value as women of God. I feel passionate about helping women find their true beauty which I believe is within their hearts. Saint John Paul II left us the Theology of the Body, and I genuinely believe that if every woman learns about it, this can change their lives. As a catholic woman, I want to help [...]
Stephanie Rebollar
I have a desire to continue building the Catholic church through Catholic education. My commitment is to volunteer my time and talents towards schools and organizations that provide children the opportunity and support to attend a Catholic school. Catholic schools’ foster opportunities for students to know and strengthen their relationship with God, develop their academic knowledge, build community, and promote growth in virtue. “Train up a child in the way [...]
Jesse Ramirez
Here’s my leadership commitment. I will do the following in no particular order: Start a nonprofit which A) educates others on how to lobby their elected officials. B) educates the Hispanic American population on the importance of not being considered a captured group under any political party as the case may be in California, so they can learn to be Catholics first, and choose according to their conscience. C) Help [...]
Christopher Plance
After reflecting on my experience in the TLI, my leadership commitment will be to become the program facilitator for TLI Los Angeles in 2021. I look forward to teaming up with TLI to advance lay leaders in the world. Along with the mission of TLI, I’m also passionate about seeing the Gospel advanced in the city of Los Angeles. Thus, this leadership commitment provides me with the opportunity to apply [...]
Ariana Perfecto
President Thomas Jefferson stated, “kno[w]ledge is power…kno[w]ledge is safety, and… kno[w]ledge is happiness.” As a Catholic leader and firm believer in this truth, I commit to creating opportunities for others to gain knowledge so that they are empowered in their lives. Through the non-profit I founded this year, Forward, Countrymen, I will develop educational programs to inform the community, as well as opportunities to directly participate in local governance. As [...]
Debby Ortega
Being a public-school teacher has many challenges and rewarding experiences. One challenge in particular that I have seen in my teaching career is the lack of social emotional training, which teachers require in order to work with children. I strongly believe that in order to teach a child we must first capture their heart with God’s love. The only way we can do that is by forming a strong nurturing [...]
Stephanie Morales
I discovered the Theology of the Body teachings of Pope John Paul II in my adult life but so desperately wished I learned them earlier in my teens. There is a great need in my Hispanic community for youth to understand their identity in the modern world and the gift of self. With the help of Revelation and of the Church, I will be attending courses at the Theology of [...]
Austin McElrath
For my leadership commitment I have elected to start an endowment for student scholarships at Servite High School, where I attended, and the roots of our faith took hold. I am currently sponsoring a rising senior, along with several of my classmates, and together we will ensure that this young man graduates, regardless of the financial situation facing his family. Furthermore, I will also work to endow a scholarship for [...]
Alexander Leparulo
For my leadership commitment, I would like to start a “Bible smuggling” program that ships and expedites Bibles to countries that are the fastest growing in human population. With the exception of the United States, I would want to send Bibles to rapidly growing nations such as India, China, Nigeria, Indonesia, and Pakistan. By 2050, these nations are predicted to have the highest exponential growth. This will help the mission [...]
Sindy Hernandez
First, I would like to thank God for the gift of faith. My commitment is to serve him and those around me, for his glory. My long-term goal is to open a retreat center where people’s lives will be transformed through the power of prayer and personal testimonies. I experienced this four years ago. Since then, Jesus has restored my life from the pain of abortion, abuse, rape, and a [...]
Brenda Lorena Garcia
Having been blessed with a career in the Hollywood Film Industry, it is commonly understood that there’s a lack of community. Generally speaking, there isn’t enough camaraderie as it is, but this is especially true within Catholics in Entertainment. I will develop an organization with the potential of it expanding to an active production company called “Theotokos Productions,” named after the Great Mother of God, having her as our Patroness. [...]
Alex Emanuel
Consumer media’s approach to the Christian faith today is largely either one of scorn and derision in popular film and television or bland and blithe promotion in niche productions. I want to produce content that treats our faith as a serious, reasoned, and natural part of human existence; I must learn to better develop and finance mainstream projects so that in the future I might influence their production or spearhead my [...]
Melody Cruz
TLI has exposed me to ways lay Catholics can make meaningful impacts in the modern world by answering the call of evangelization. By opening my ears to listen better, my eyes to recognize Jesus around me, my mouth to speak the truth confidently with courage, and my heart to empathize with others, I hope to bring others closer to Christ by my example of living the faith. Therefore, I commit [...]
Jonalyn Bridgeman
After finishing TLI, I am more committed to sharing more of my Time, Talent, and Treasure in my community back in the Philippines and anywhere else I am needed. It was an opportunity for me to validate and affirm that the teachings, values, and culture that I gained in my formation years with the guidance of my family, and my exposure in our diverse Catholic church, were all aligned. My [...]
Kathryn Bodenhamer
My leadership commitment is to use the creative arts to lead those lost out of darkness, to deepen their relationship with God, and to help them see their unique Goodness and Beauty in Light of God’s Truth. I will write screenplays encouraging others to ponder their spiritual existence and commit to starting a production company dedicated to creating such projects. I will also share my religious artwork centered around revealing God’s Grace [...]
Denise Barajas
I am passionate about changing the culture from mediocrity and passive feelings to action, greatness and freedom in truth. I want our generation to understand how morals and ethics do not contradict the change we all wish to see, but rather enhance our humanity in every facet of life. I am committing to writing for TLI’s blog and enhance TLI’s online presence. I am also committing to writing a mini-series [...]
Raquel Arce-Benitez
The TLI experience has touched me in very profound ways. The program has invited me to use my faculties as a leader to live a more intentional witness to Christ in my professional career and aspire to live a magnanimous life. I will strive for professionalism and high standards to become a reputable and influential professional. I commit to develop a religious after school program for kids who are unable [...]
Ricardo Anguiano
Participating in TLI has helped me to enrich my faith and grow in a deeper relationship with God. In addition, it has helped me strengthen the catholic foundations necessary to face any challenges in the professional field. For my leadership commitment, I intend to join the “Ahead Leadership Program” at Tilden Study Center as a mentor or speaker to contribute to the personal development of young men in High School. [...]
Cesar Verduzco
My commitment is based on my faith and participation in Tepeyac Leadership Initiative program. I’m taking action to launch myself as a political candidate based on my Catholic Values. First, I will run for a seat at a School Board to learn and gain experience. Then, I will enroll in the new American leadership program for new candidates seeking a higher office. Once finished, I will prepare the path to [...]
Eileen Sullivan
I plan to reach out to other Catholic Professionals in Flagstaff and create awareness of the new TLI Online platform, soon available nationwide. As a lawyer, I am committed to representing indigent defendants with dignity and respect. I am committed to seeking justice in the cases that I am appointed. I am committed to always remembering Pope Francis’s words, “There is a need in every case for the assistance of [...]
Jorge Sandoval
TLI has re-ignited my desire to do great things for Our Lord and Our Lady. As an executive, educator and evangelizer, I can positively impact thousands of youth in South Phoenix. I commit myself to form virtuous young leaders through educational and evangelization programs. They will be inspired to live a life of the seven virtues, collaborate on service projects for those in need, and produce good fruits in their [...]
Mariana Rodriguez
Pope Francis said, “Being a Christian entails promoting the dignity of our brothers and sisters, fighting for it, living for it.” Through the grace of God, I am committed to support catholic based organizations that strive to affirm the dignity and rights of migrants. I plan on donating and volunteering with these organizations, as well as advocating for just policies. Lastly, I intend to practice the virtue of courage to [...]
Shelly Potter
I am passionate about my vocation as a health care provider and I desire to contribute to the common good through my profession as a Catholic Physical Therapist. My current mission is to serve those aging in Arizona through leadership and advocacy. I will do this through involvement in the American Physical Therapy Association, specifically with the Arizona chapter of Board Certified Geriatric Clinical Specialists. I will contribute to the local community [...]
Gerardo Peña
I deeply care about the sanctity of life and dignity of the human person. I desire to lead a prolife focused non-profit organization and share my acquired leadership abilities, knowledge and passion for the underserved and underprivileged. This year I will request a meeting with Bishop Olmstead and offer to serve on a diocesan committee or board in my need to develop stronger community and diocesan connections and increase networking opportunities. [...]
Refugio Payan
The Tepeyac Leadership Initiative program has awakened my desire to personally grow in my Faith, my relationship with God and Parish engagement. It has inspired me to become a Virtuous Leader. As a graduate of the TLI 2020 Cohort I will commit to help promote and grow the Catholic Faith within the Families I serve by creating a virtual networking group that will help them grow spiritually and bring awareness to honor [...]
Elizabeth Moore
The rights of preborn children are THE social justice issue of our day. So much evil comes out of banishing their humanity from the mind of society. The innocence of children is also preyed upon in our schools through inappropriate and harmful sex education, which research shows leads to earlier sexual activity and increased abortion rates. I pledge to defend the rights of the innocent through pursuing volunteer and board [...]
Fernando Marquez
Participating in TLI has opened my eyes to the number of youth that lose interest and move away from our Catholic faith, especially when they leave their family. My TLI leadership commitment is to have a stronger prayer life and better understanding of our faith, to ultimately become a mentor to youth. I commit to working with our youth by taking a more active role in my parish and joining a board that involves [...]
Elvia Lish
I am blessed to work for St. Vincent de Paul. There I have experienced the true impact of what can occur when a community comes together to help vulnerable populations. Diabetes self-management education programs play an essential role in improving health outcomes in populations in need of health care resources. Yet programs like this are not readily available in the Phoenix area. Today my TLI commitment is to expand our [...]
Jason Kohl
I have a passion and enthusiasm for networking with like-minded professionals in the business community, who hold their faith and values as the cornerstone of how they conduct themselves in the public square and lead virtuously. My mission is to assist fellow professionals make meaningful relationships and fruitful connections, through network introductions and referrals. I would like to help fuel the momentum and assist with the Tepeyac Leadership Society and [...]
Luke Kircher
TLI has provided me fortitude for Christ’s mission and a wonderful group of peers. Four pillars that I have a passion for are; leadership development, education, evangelization, and a strong conviction for the sanctity of life. My strength is the ability to build community. My goal is to introduce others to TLI to help them identify their purpose, strengthen their faith, and develop into virtuous leaders to become witnesses to [...]
Elva Hooker
I am grateful to have joined TLI at this point in my life as a mother, a wife, and a professional. I gained self-knowledge and a focused and re-ignited purpose. As a health care provider that works with the community, I commit to advocating for equitable care for the most vulnerable to chronic diseases. As a TLI graduate, I commit to using the virtues God has given me to empower [...]
Maria Gonzalez
Participating in TLI has broadened my vision on what kind of leader I want to become within my profession. The topics taught in the program have shown me what it is to truly be a virtuous leader in today’s society. It has shaped my views on how a leader should set an example by faith. In gratitude for being able to experience this program, I am committed to taking my [...]
Page Goetz
TLI has provided me with a greater understanding of the virtues and the importance of cultivating them in both the personal and professional life. With the persistent encouragement of St. Teresa of Calcutta, who said that: “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family,” and my desire to make a difference, I am excited to make a commitment to loving my family more intentionally. I [...]
Edmundo Garcia Fimbres
I commit to living a meaningful Catholic life and build and share those values around me through living my vocation and the exercise of the virtues at the workplace. I commit to the use of my charisms through service, as member of these lay apostolates: the Holy Family Institute, the Knights of Columbus and our parish marriage preparation program. I further commit to re-arranging my life activities, simplifying and organizing [...]
Ana Gama
In the Catholic Social Teaching session, we learned one of the ways to achieve the common good is by ensuring the social well-being and development of our communities. What I’ve learned during my time in the TLI program has encouraged me to take a closer look at what it means to pursue the common good. I feel called to contribute to this effort by serving the youth in my community. [...]
Parker Fox
As a state attorney for the Arizona Department of Child Safety, I advocate for the interests of neglected and abused children on a daily basis. From this experience I see the overwhelming need for volunteer foster families. Because Catholic social teaching uniquely positions Catholics to care for the young and disenfranchised, I believe our diocese has the potential to become the gold standard in foster care. My commitment is to [...]
Jose Luis Escobedo
My leadership commitment is to create a supplemental retreat as a capstone to the Exodus 90 program designed for men. The retreat will give participants an understanding of the need to be an active Catholic and what a properly ordered and excellent Catholic life entails. It will be helpful in discerning God’s will for them. This retreat will build on the rigorous formation found in Exodus 90. This will act [...]
Juan Carlos Duran
Like many immigrant families, mine came to the U.S. looking for better economic opportunities. We have been blessed to have started a successful family business, and at the same time, I have been blessed to have had a great business education from some of the top schools in the country. My leadership commitment as part of the TLI class of 2020 is to serve God by helping other Hispanic businesses [...]
Monica Diaz
TLI has allowed me to think on a grander scale about the impact I want to have on society. It has shown me what qualities are necessary to become an effective and virtuous leader. Through TLI I have learned to appreciate and become more confident in the skills and opportunities God has blessed me with. My plan is to leverage those skills and opportunities to pursue my Master of Science [...]
Alvaro Davila
Supported by the TLI education and community we have gained, I commit to serving both life and the family, two values that are under special attack today. In regard to the defense of life, I will volunteer my research experience to the Scottsdale-based Bioethics Defense Fund. I hope to find ways to apply my current studies in Data Science to the pro-life movement. In regard to the family, I commit [...]
Esperanza Hodgers, Kyrene Elementary School District
Monsignor Chavez is the head of the commission for the Canonization of San Juan Diego at the Archdioceses of Mexico City, and an expert in the history and message of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Like other Catholics, I thought I knew about Our Lady of Guadalupe. However, after partaking in one of the institutes online courses, I was blown away by how much there is to know about her! My [...]
Katrina Winn, Aid to Women Center
My TLI Leadership commitment is to facilitate a program for families designed to help them grow together in prayer. This program will be based on the spiritual exercises of St. Ignatius and run yearly at my parish. Through a three-night long series of talks, activities, discussion, and Adoration, it will create a shared prayer experience that will strengthen the family's collective prayer life. The desired outcome is a strengthening of [...]
Ryan Wiensch, Spectrum Graphics
As a graduate of TLI and a leader in the business community, I commit to living a balanced work and personal life. I commit to a stronger fuller prayer life and a greater understanding of our faith. Through these commitments I will look to bring men closer to Christ by playing an active role in my parish community, taking time to provide board service and working every day to lead [...]
Reymundo Torres, Aramark – Arizona State University
Pope Francis has said "A good Catholic meddles in politics, offering the best of himself, so that those who govern can govern." Per the guidance of the Holy Father, I intend to meddle. With numbers approaching one million souls and growing, the Roman Catholic Church is, by far, the largest religion in our state. Unfortunately, this is neither generally well known nor politically unifying among Catholics in Arizona. Through various [...]
Eunice Sepulveda-Martinez, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality
Discovering the meaning of becoming a virtuous leader and how to influence others positively, is extremely rewarding to me. Most importantly, the gift of being a wife and mother motivates me to help other families discover the love of God. I commit to taking more Natural Family Planning (NFP) courses to become an NFP representative at our parish. Respectfully and lovingly, I want to reach out to families (in person [...]
Micki Schroeder, Trilinear HR Consulting and Business Solutions
As a graduate of the TLI Class of 2019 and in response to the constant reminder that my own life is no less than a miracle, I plan to increase my efforts to protect the sanctity and dignity of human life. I will maintain my current board leadership roles as I move forward in consideration for board membership at Life Choices Women's Clinic as well. Additionally, I will keep my [...]
Erin Sarotte, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
My participation in TLI has reignited my desire to be a leader in the Catholic Church. As I enter into the vocation of marriage this November, I feel called to serve married couples in a special way. My fiancé, Joe, and I have decided to begin a Christian Family Movement group at our parish. The Christian Family Movement is a lay Catholic movement that promotes Christ-centered marriages and family life, [...]
Marco Porras, Mas Vale Saber
Participating in TLI has helped me understand the beauty of God's work, the path he lights for me and the many blessings he bestows upon me. For my leadership commitment, I intend to discern my faith and vocation so that I may continue to grow spiritually while seeking out and allowing the Lord to place me in a board member position, which will allow me to confront injustice in society [...]
Erika Peña, Catholic Charities Community Services
My leadership commitment is to re-strengthen my formation to better lead the Charismatic Renovation group Mimicas. John the Baptist said the Messiah "will baptize you in the Holy Spirit and fire." (Luke 3:16) As a group, we are entrusted to represent and spread that "fire" through dynamism in events by engaging with the community. Because of personal battles, there were times I wanted to abandon my commitment as a leader, [...]
Melissa Moreno, City of Phoenix
It was troubling to learn about the number of young people leaving the Faith, year after year. My commitment is to create a comfortable environment that leads youth into self-reflection including the critical role parents and the parish community play in youth formation. This would include partnering with my Parish Pastor to create opportunities for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Eucharistic Adoration and personal invitations to ask questions about the Faith.
Jennifer Miraval, KSAZ Fox 10 News
With God's grace, I'm committing to create a documentary. Its mission will be to shine light on the truth behind one of the most controversial topics today; abortion. This movie will give a space for women who have been victimized by abortion to share their story. The hope for this film is to not only expose the truth but also to show that healing is possible. This documentary will honor [...]
Jennifer Miranda, Americare Hospice and Palliative Care
My leadership commitment is to be a founding member of Salutem Et Fidem, meaning "Health and Faith." Our mission is to become a Catholic guided forum that will provide members support for their physical, emotional, spiritual, psychological, and intellectual health, and also a way to reflect on their role in healthcare through a Catholic lens. We will strive to provide education and support through a guided forum to discuss various [...]
George McNeely, State of Arizona
After nearly two decades of war, the spiritual and social services need of our veterans are greater than ever. As a Marine veteran, I understand the pride of service to the country comes at a high price. Veterans face high rates of homelessness, suicide, and unemployment. As my Leadership Commitment, I pledge to secure an appointment to the Arizona Veterans Service Advisory Commission for at least one three-year term. This [...]
Jaime Martinez, LPI
After my TLI journey, a passion for service and spiritual growth has flourished in me., Because of the work I already do in the area, and my professional and Church connections, I commit to supporting TLI in reaching Catholic professionals in Los Angeles. I will also join the St. Gregory’s Church project at my parish. Personally, I commit to a close observance of my relationship with Christ, my wife and [...]
Lorin Marchese, Grand Canyon Education
In addition to changing my profession to teaching business classes at a local Catholic high school, my TLI commitment is to start a Bible study at the school. I want to invite ALL students to participate - no matter their gender, religion, grade, interests or academic standing. I intend that these students will know through this experience how important and valued they ALL are and that they will, in turn, [...]
Miranda Maciel, Catholic Community Foundation
As part of my leadership commitment, I will work to further develop my limited Spanish by taking weekly classes with the students of Bourgade Catholic High School with a Summer Immersion program in 2020. These classes and immersion program will allow me to better serve our Spanish-speaking community and incoming families in my role as Admissions Coordinator. I also commit to furthering the mission of TLI by serving as a [...]
Maria Lipp, Spotlight Media Services
My leadership commitment is to continue helping the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative reach professionals who want to lead with principle and dignity. I look forward to continuing my collaboration with TLI's social media team to grow its following and provide insight, that will help further TLI's virtual presence as well as spread the message of virtuous leadership in the community. I hope the social media communications team--I will be part of--will [...]
Irma Leyendecker, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
During TLI, I found myself thinking about the conscious choice to "Choose Love," the path Jesus would take. I see it as my calling to help facilitate this problem-solving skill of making decisions with the love of Jesus in mind with our kids in our Catholic schools. I think in today's world they need to know how to make smart and loving decisions with others in mind. I would like [...]
Cecilia Lavallade, Diocese of Phoenix
As a graduate of the TLI 2019 cohort, my leadership commitment is to continue to form myself in my faith and grow in a deeper relationship with God. In addition, I desire to serve on at least one of the following boards: 1) Young Professional Board for Catholic Charities; 2) Maggie's Place; or 3) Catholic Leadership Circle. I hope to continue promoting TLI in hopes of inspiring future participants and [...]
Lisa Johnston, StreamLine Accounting
My leadership commitment is three-fold, for my children, I have taken on the role of president of the Parent Service Organization to help build a better school and community for them. For my church, I will be handwriting notes to the parents of teens who are not attending the parish Life Teen program in order to increase participation and increase spirituality for young adults. TLI has also reignited in my [...]
Larry Herrera, City of Tempe
There is a great need for building a professional Catholic leadership community. We can do more to unite and collaborate with Catholic professionals in Arizona.I commit to help to moderate the next cohort of TLI 2020 and beyond. Catholic leaders are needed at every cornerstone and helping build the network that lays the foundation, will shape the future of our Catholic faith in Phoenix.
Monica Grijalva, DMMG
My leadership commitment is to support the dissemination of the papal encyclical Laudato Si by writing a monthly column for my Facebook Page and Blog Desierto Vivo, also to be sent as opinion columns to newspapers and church bulletins in Spanish and English. I hope for others to understand the responsibility of care for our common home, the urgency of our environmental challenges, and to join Pope Francis in looking [...]
Arturo Gonzalez, Ryley Carlock & Applewhite
As an attorney who is privileged to represent injured workers and the underprivileged in our society, my commitment is to represent my clients through the lens of the Catholic Church, to treat all of my clients with dignity and respect, and to ensure that I keep taking bro-bono cases from the Florence Project to assist unaccompanied minors seeking a better life in the United States.
Sonia Galaviz, Remax New Hights
I see a great need for young men and women of high school age to know more about their Catholic faith. As a TLI Graduate, my commitment is to develop a formation program for young adults in my parish that focuses on teaching the apologetics of the church. I would like to provide these young adults the knowledge and help them see the richness of our Catholic faith, so they [...]
Jimmy Flores, We Build Phoenix
Catholics are constantly yearning for comradeship with fellow Catholics but building long-lasting relationships through programs like TLI can be costly. I'm called to help create TLI's Scholarship Fund for people not able to pay tuition fees. TLI's Scholarship Fund will be supported by the community through donations, individual meetings, and an annual dinner. My responsibilities include direct communications with TLI, fund organization, and most importantly, fundraising efforts.
Bill Fathauer, Arizona Department of Transportation
I will use my charism for writing to start a political blog geared towards helping lay Catholics both apply the teachings of the Church in the public square and identify opportunities for civic engagement. In the more mid-term, I will found a podcast with one or two other politically minded Catholics towards the same end. Additionally, I will seek an appointment to the City of Phoenix's Human Services Commission to [...]
Christine DuPont, Relevant Radio
I am passionate about being Catholic, America, and Freedom. As Catholics, we must enact just laws and to protect our most sacred rights. I believe that if Catholics vote for candidates who uphold true Catholic teaching, we would have a better state, country, and society. My leadership commitment will be to create awareness and opportunities for Catholic's to form their conscience in preparation for elections. I will be working with [...]
Carlos Caraveo, JPMorgan Chase
We all have a responsibility to bring Christ to our brothers and sisters. This upcoming fall I will be joining the Hospitality Team for RCIA at St. Mary Magdalene. The mission is to make the catechumens feel welcomed, connect them with other parishioners, and walk alongside them as they learn more about the Catholic faith.
Brandon Buck, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul
There is great enthusiasm and potential magnanimity in my fellow graduates. My calling is to connect people. With regular quarterly gatherings, that include faith, education, and networking, we will build momentum with the first two TLI cohorts. My commitment is to support the development of the TLI Alumni Association.
Mar Bonilla, EBS Health Care – Littleton Elementary School
As a school speech-language pathologist, I advocate for those who need representation daily. After participating in TLI, I plan on joining a board or organization that focuses on ensuring children with disabilities have access to adequate academic and religious education, along with community participation. I would also like to assist youth leaders in identifying how they can better support teens with disabilities who are part of their groups.
Rafael Testai, EventKey Mobile App
There is a great need for building a professional Catholic community. We can do more to unite and collaborate with Catholic professionals in Arizona, build a network that embodies the values learned in TLI and create awareness of opportunities and issues in our community; so, we can take action on or volunteer with. I commit to starting a Catholic business network that gathers once quarterly. We will mirror the TLI format. [...]
David Tello, Raza Development Fund
I have great concern for the safety of our children within their school grounds. There has been, on average, 1 school shooting every week this year. Fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters constitute the casualties. A kid walks into school property and unloads a semi-automatic weapon, and little is being done about it. I believe there is much to be done to control access to guns. I plan on becoming an active voice in [...]
Jonathan Solorzano, Solorzano Law
Through TLI I have come to appreciate the Church’s heart for immigration and the value it gives to upholding human dignity. As an owner of a law firm, I’ve decided to incorporate the Church’s teachings on my immigration practice. The bible teaches (in Exodus 22:21) "Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner, for you were foreigners in Egypt.” (Leviticus 19:33-34 says) “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, [...]
David Segura, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office
As a graduate of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Class of 2018, my leadership commitment is to live a balanced life by developing my work, family, and spiritual lives together; and to serve as an ethical leader by inspiring my colleagues to focus on the importance of the dignity of the human person.
Mari Seaberg, Americare Hospice and Palliative Care
As a hospice nurse, I commit to advocating for the terminally ill through true healthcare that upholds the dignity of the human person. As a TLI graduate, I commit myself to preventing the spread of Physician Assisted Suicide through education in religious and secular organizations, by proposing editorial pieces to the media and nurses' bulletins, and by writing to and meeting with Arizona legislators regarding the four current proposed PAS [...]
Aaron Smith, Arizona State University
As a father to a young family, I am passionate about both education and my children. It is my intention to apply to the Diocesan School Board with a focus on helping to maintain the orthodoxy of the Catholic faith in the schools as well as working to raise academic standards even higher to ensure students in the Diocese can have access to a high-quality education. Furthermore, my wife and [...]
Scott Scharl, North & Co Real Estate
The Catholic Church enjoys a rich cultural tradition of art, literature, music, and thought spanning two millennia. Many Catholics are eager to engage with this tradition to rediscover ancient wisdom and grow in their love of God. Even those outside the Church find Catholic beauty attractive, and the conversion of many souls begins with an encounter with this heritage. As a new board member of Catholic Phoenix, a nonprofit organization, I [...]
Ryan Scharber, Hooper, Adams & Alexander, PLC
I am passionate about ending abortion, making Catholic education affordable for all, and upholding the integrity of our existing Catholic institutions. Thus, I plan to support First Way Pregnancy Center, the Catholic Community Foundation, and Catholic Charities in furtherance of their respective missions. I commit to service on at least one of the following boards within the next six months: (1) the Board of Directors for First Way Pregnancy Center; [...]
Adrian Ruiz, Raza Development Fund
I believe we are currently at an important point in time with regards to educating our youth. Education can be the great equalizer, under the appropriate conditions, with regards to changing the social and economic outlook of our community. Both the local and national demographic trends are changing; and I believe it is important to have representation of that reality at the decision-making level. I think it is equally important to have [...]
Brian Rosario, Seton Catholic Preparatory
It has been written, “Iron sharpens iron; one person sharpens another” (Prov. 27:17). Thus, I commit to creating the Florencio Rosario, Jr. Project, an initiative using basketball and Catholic teaching to start a conversation and dialog between fathers and their sons, boosting their relationship with a goal of developing confident, engaged, and educated young men in the Church. Emerging from the verse from proverbs, it will be an initiative that [...]
Juan Ramirez, Escamilla Law Group
My leadership commitment is to strengthen the formation of the laity, in particular, young adults and high school age youth. I want to focus on theology of the body, marriage between one man and one woman, and gender ideology. I plan to do this by facilitating small group discussions where participants can openly ask questions and engage in honest discussions. The intent is to give participants the tools to confidently [...]
Nazario Prieto, City of Phoenix
First and foremost, I am a father and a husband, and I commit to becoming the best that I can be with God’s grace. I will become a more prayerful man and take full advantage of the sacraments to become more holy. I also have a passion for apologetics, and my focus will be to reach Catholic and non-Catholic men and bring them to Christ and to help them see [...]
Angelica Perez, Arizona Department of Child Safety
I find a great ongoing need in the right-to-life movement where men, women and children lack the understanding of what it means to be pro-life. I plan on volunteering at pro-life centers to mentor and educate on the cycle of conception and natural birth. I also plan on forming curriculum and/or educational material to further educate and inform the youth in our schools and youth groups and the most vulnerable [...]
Bienvenido Morel, YRS New York
I commit to starting an entertainment company to be named Teleos Entertainment Group. Our company will focus on creating faith-based theater, movie and entertainment productions. Our first mission is to create a theater production based on Bishop Olmstead’s apostolic exhortation, “Into the Breach”. Our goal is to produce entertainment that brings the audience into closer relationship with Christ. We strive to do this on a local level here in Phoenix and to possibly grow [...]
Andres Martin, Maricopa County Environmental Services
I believe virtuous leadership is needed at the civic level of society and feel passionate about being an instrument of change in secular society. I was recently elected to serve as a Board Member for the Arizona Environmental Health Association (2-year term). My TLI leadership commitment is to fill a vacant City of Peoria Board/Commission position in 2018 and to use that as a platform to run for Peoria Unified [...]
Marisa Lopez, Arizona Public Service
More Latinos are leaving the church behind and have allowed themselves to be led by the distorted ways of the world. I believe more can be done to invite Latinos to come back to the Church and strengthen them in the history, culture, and social teachings of the faith. Thus, I commit to serve the Marytown Mission in their evangelization efforts in South Phoenix. In addition, I am concerned about [...]
Seth Graham, Salt River Police Department
For my leadership commitment I would like to travel to Catholic churches and schools to talk about general life safety. How not to be a victim of crime/violence at home, work, and play.
Claudia Lopez, Catholic Charities Community Services
There is a great need to continue to evangelize the Latino young community. My commitment will be to start a young adult group that will be focused on serving others in missions and deepening their faith through pilgrimages. There will be a special focus on connecting the young adults with issues such as immigration, so they may understand the church’s teaching and serve the community. This young adult group will [...]
Andrew Lishko, May, Potenza, Baran & Gillespie
I have a great concern that there are too few Catholic leaders in public office who are fully faithful to all of the Church’s teachings. I believe that too often Catholics are divided and categorized to meet partisan agendas, and that too often politicians are Catholic in name only. As a member of the 2018 Tepeyac Leadership Initiative graduating class, I intend to live out my faith in the public [...]
Rafael Lavallade, Arizona Federal Credit Union
One of today’s challenges in society is the noise that distracts from going back to the basics and the beauty of simplicity at the heart of living a truly family life in its essence. Fostering family values can be the solution of many problems, cultivating great members of society that will set the world on fire and who will defend the values of truth and serve the common good. For [...]
Micaela Larkin, Arizona Legislature
There is a great need for an understanding of the history of the Catholic Church in the US. As one part of my commitment, I plan to write a book to provide insight into our Church’s past, Catholic Social Teaching, Irish Catholicism, and the American Southwest using my family’s history as the hook to explore some of these themes. I also believe there is much to be done in person-to-person [...]
Alex Julian, Cicero Preparatory Academy
I have a great concern for the proper education of our youth. I believe there is much to be done to offer a high-quality, public education that orients young hearts and minds toward a lifelong pursuit of Truth, Goodness, and Beauty. As a graduate of the TLI Class of 2018, my leadership commitment is to become a headmaster or principal at a liberal-arts oriented educational institution.
Dulce Hernandez, Catholic Charities Community Services
There is a need for youth to embrace and value human dignity. As a graduate of TLI my leadership commitment is to volunteer in 2 organizations that work with youth to present mission opportunities from social services that value people’s lives. I will help youth to see their own self-worth as a gift, to value the dignity of others through mission work and to continuously seek human touch. This journey [...]
Angela Heisel, University of Phoenix
My commitment will be to help manage TLI’s social media accounts (Facebook and LinkedIn) to help spread the Catholic message to professionals and build Tepeyac Leadership Initiative’s presence on social media. The hope is this will generate interest in TLI among future participants and promote Catholic teachings in a way that is relevant to working adults who may or may not be close to the faith but who are interested [...]
Pedro Gutierrez, Green Path Inc
In response to the needs of the local community which has expressed a desire to grow in holiness through the Catholic Action spirituality, with the help of current members, I have decided to open a new program for married couples. The aim of this program is to foster holy consciences within young and experienced married families, providing them the opportunity to: 1.) foster community 2.) serve one another, and 3.) learn [...]
Gloria Guerra, Bilingual Insurance and HR Solutions
I have a great concern for the professional education of our multicultural female population. I believe there is much to be done in terms of providing opportunities and financial education in our community and provide confidence for women to become entrepreneurs, so they can have a flexible schedule to enjoy life and motherhood. I intend to start a financial and PR mentoring and support program to pair up women, mothers, [...]
Gustavo Estrella, Davidson Belluso, Inc
The knowledge and topics shared in TLI were invaluable, and the speakers, the networking opportunities, and overall content will be instrumental in making a positive impact in the secular world through the sharing of truth, goodness and beauty. In partnership with Angela Heisel, my leadership commitment is to help establish TLI’s online presence by way of brand development, content creation, and community building through its website and social media platforms. [...]
Javier Espinoza, Remax New Heights Realty
“Build for My poor people.” This is the message I received as we kneeled in front of the Eucharist during our TLI retreat. As the cost of living increases year to year, it is becoming increasingly difficult for those with low incomes to find decent living accommodations. Today I commit to developing affordable housing complexes and houses for low-income families and individuals and help them end the rent cycle keeping [...]
Maria Escarceca, Child and Family Support Services
Through TLI, I've become acutely aware of the need to have Christ present in our schools and for the Catholic Church to have more of her members supporting community growth in faith and love. As a graduate of TLI 2018, I plan to participate on a board in an organization that will help with Catholic Outreach in the community and to involve myself as leader in a school.
Ricardo Contreras, Duran Accounting Solutions LLC
One of the biggest and most concerning challenges I see in the Church is the massive exodus of youth to so called “new churches”; churches that offer an apparently easier, more convenient path to salvation. I believe there is much to be done in terms of renewing the way we, the Catholic Church, reach out to the youth. My leadership commitment is to develop a Catholic awareness campaign program within [...]
Norma Carrillo, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul
My mission in life is to make an impact on every person I encounter. It isn’t difficult to make an impact on someone’s life but rather it is difficult to make a meaningful impact. I see teenagers and young women encountering obstacles in life, such as sexual harassment, physical, mental or verbal abuse, and even sexual violence. The women and teenagers who encounter these obstacles, likely don’t have a role [...]
Roxana Amaton, Chicanos Por La Causa
I would like to continue to use my gifts of counseling, healing, and teaching. Much compassion is needed for victims of abuse, trauma, and abortion. Being on the Board of Restore Dignity will allow me to continue to advocate for life. St. John Paul II said, “Society as a whole must respect, defend and promote the dignity of every human person, at every moment and in every condition of that [...]