Latest News

Latest News2023-10-18T18:58:20+00:00
2806, 2023

Michael Yiin

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am committed to fostering the growth of Laudato Si communities both within the Church and in the workplace. I recognize the urgent need to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable practices in all aspects of life. I will actively encourage and support the formation of Laudato Si groups, engaging individuals to deepen their understanding of ecological responsibility and care for our common home. In the workplace, I will champion [...]

2806, 2023

Valentine Wangechi

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The Tepeyac leadership has taken me on a personal journey. It has shed light into areas in my life I need to work on, growing in faith, and shown me how to I impact others in the community. My Leadership commitment in the near future is to continue to grow in faith, sharing knowledge with the children ministry in my local church. My long-term goal is to start a nonprofit organization and [...]

2806, 2023

Stephen Voehl

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to embracing my vocation as priest, prophet, and king alongside my wife and family, delving deeper into its essence. Safeguarding my loved ones from evil and leading our domestic worship. I will emulate Christ by being both priest and sacrifice, prioritizing service over self. As a prophet, I will set an example through repentance and regular confession. As a king, I will govern my emotions, providing my wife [...]

2806, 2023

Emmanuel Villalpando

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a graduate of TLI, I am very grateful to have been a part of the 2023 TLI cohort, getting to know our instructors, and much more. I have enjoyed the zoom coffees and getting to know other like-minded Catholic individuals which were it not by TLI I would have never had the chance to meet. I am proud to be becoming a graduate of TLI, since to me being [...]

2806, 2023

Angel Vega

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to be a leader within my family by providing financially and spiritually for them, forwarding my career while staying present and involved in the family. I will obtain training to climb up the ladder to have my ideas heard. I will identify and embrace opportunities within the Church and community by actively joining a board or committee and becoming involved in accessible Catholic Social Work organizations. [...]

2806, 2023

Andrew J. Triplett

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a graduate of TLI, my commitment will be to apply what I have learned from the speakers of our program to my work as an attorney, emphasizing the promotion of human dignity and the common good. I will continue and expand my involvement with my local parish, my local Knights of Columbus chapter, as well as grow in connection with the St. Thomas More Society.

2806, 2023

Michael Towle

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

At the heart of Christian leadership lies the habit of selfless service to others. Great leaders throughout history have triumphed in myriad ways, but those most inspiring have done so with gratitude. TLI consistently highlights areas of faith and culture where Christian leadership is in dire need. I am committed to leadership in my local community through service, fidelity to the tenants of the faith, and gratitude for God’s grace to [...]

2806, 2023

Cathy Thompson

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has ignited the fire in me to move forward with clarity. My coaching mission is to be an antidote to the chaos in this confused world. I will empower my clients to realize their God-given potential, by understanding their uniqueness and ultimate purpose as a child of God, while enabling them to recognize that true peace, joy, and fulfilment only reside in God’s will. May mine be the hands [...]

2806, 2023

Igor Telepcak

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

“Holy Father, keep them true to thy name, thy gift to me, that they may be one, as we are one.” John 17,11. Inspired by the apparition of Holy Virgin Mary as Our Lady of Guadalupe to Saint Juan Diego and the TLI Catholic laity leadership vision I will strive to promote works of unity among faithful across their respective national, cultural, professional, or individual backgrounds and to contribute to strengthening [...]

2806, 2023

Jennifer Teeters

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am so grateful for the gift of TLI and to have been challenged by the discipline of participating fully in the program, as well as facing topics I would usually shy away from. I find peace in my life by surrendering to Jesus and trying not to worry or be anxious about things of this world. TLI has challenged me to go beyond my comfort zone of service to [...]

2806, 2023

Perla Tannous

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In Jesus' name, I commit my life to Him, seeking His path always. I strive to see greatness in others, nurturing an “I & you” relationship. I shall know myself, living in truth and authenticity. Joining World Youth Alliance, I dedicate to educate youth about pro-life matters: human dignity, family planning, HIV, hormonal health, euthanasia, and suicide. Through training programs in schools and universities, I will empower the youth with [...]

2806, 2023

Brandon Tauscher

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a graduate of the Tepeyac Leadership Institute and as Principal of the San Tan Charter School Power Campus, with Love, I will incorporate Catholic Social Teaching into the everyday operations of the school so to assist others to encounter God’s presence. This will include increasing the beauty of the school, promoting peace and the ideals of solidarity and the common good. Also, I will hold to account, with empathy, [...]

2806, 2023

Jarred Sola

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to creating a cadence of Community Engagement for my organization in the Phoenix Market. The vision will be to amass a roster over 100 participating Partners to be guided by the words of St. Frances of Assisi “Preach the Gospel at all times. Use words if Necessary.” Secondly, I will be guided by the Holy Spirit and utilize the opportunities afforded by the Knights of Columbus to discern [...]

2806, 2023

Evan Siebenmorgen

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a leader, I am committed to uphold the teachings of the Church, integrating them into business practices, and promoting a culture of virtue, integrity, and social responsibility. I will create an organization for Catholic business professionals and owners to join together, share experiences, and collaborate. This organization will work to develop a set of standards to help guide Catholic professionals and business owners in all their business endeavors. Overall, [...]

2806, 2023

Teija Hanna Savolainen

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

God knew me before I was born and had a plan for me. It is an honor to be an instrument of His Love. After TLI sessions and deep reflections I will commit to these three objectives: (1) to develop dialogue between Abrahamic religions and all different ethnic and religious backgrounds, (2) to encourage people who suffer from addictions and mental health problems to engage in active meditation and prayerful [...]

2806, 2023

Sarah Sahioun

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to study towards a doctoral degree in the realm of science. I intend to prove through my research that the Catholic point of view on today’s issues is the most harmonious with the science and nature of the human body. My goal is to practically integrate this knowledge into the education system. And finally, through political engagement, I hope to influence policies and laws considering my [...]

2806, 2023

Wojciech Sachmata

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

First, I want to express how grateful I am to the Lord for the people who created TLI, especially for Cristofer who invited me to take part in this unique journey of the TLI cohort. As a next step after these six months of the TLI program, I commit myself to spend more time on my individual spiritual development through religious readings and to share that knowledge with others. Furthermore, I have [...]

2806, 2023

Xochitl Ruiz-Ramirez

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am committed to developing my understanding, involvement, and promotion of ESA-funded Micro-Schools. Micro-schools can be a promising environment for cultivating the Catholic faith in students. This model emerged after the pandemic, allowing families to educate their children as they see fit best. For lower-income and middle-class Catholic families, this allows their children to have an alternative educational opportunity. Through this model, students are self-directed and have more freedom and [...]

2806, 2023

Marco Primavera

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I'm deeply thankful to the Lord for having sent TLI my way, and for allowing me a deep dive into the treasuries of the Catholic church, which I've learned of only as an adult. Now, as a husband and a father, working in the financial markets, I'm sure that TLI was not a coincidence in my life, but a clear call to serve as a Catholic leader in my family, [...]

2806, 2023

Fabrice Panato

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I have to say that I did seek TLI. TLI found me. So many changes have come into my life since I started the selection process, my family received so many blessings, that I’m thankful to TLI and I always will be. I’m going to move to East France this summer, just after the TLI graduation, to start a new stage in my life. Nothing happens by chance; this is [...]

2806, 2023

Adrian Pais

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The TLI program has enriched my understanding of our faith in relation to the impact that lay people can create in the world. I feel inspired by the many interesting speakers, and I am privileged to be part of such a diverse cohort of people from across the globe. This has fueled my personal mission to help develop Catholic leaders by facilitating the TLI Noon (or "Rome evening") track in [...]

2806, 2023

Richard Oyeleke

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

It is a much-appreciated opportunity to be part of the TLI program. Upon completion of this beautiful course, I look forward to implementing my leadership commitment. The vision and core values of Tepeyac so much resonate with me in my Nigerian context as it is much needed that Catholic professionals are well formed “with a spirit of charity, fidelity to the Magisterium and intellectual rigor…. to become virtuous leaders, while [...]

2806, 2023

Eva Oueiss

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In light of my vocation, I commit to nurturing education and human rights advocacy in my community and workplace through active and continuous dedication. I vow to invest my God-gifted talents in serving the Church’s mission through media and academia, empowering others to unleash their full potential. Hence, inspiring them to find purpose while contributing to building a world where all people can thrive in virtue, dignity, and peace.

2806, 2023

Cindy Olivera

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

After prayerful discernment, my leadership commitment to TLI is to build and launch a Catholic homeschool group for bilingual families in the school year 2023-2024 with the objective of passing on the Catholic faith, creating a Catholic home culture, helping our children know, love and serve God, cultivating virtuous friendships, and the formation of both mind and soul. Participating in Tepeyac has equipped me with the formation and mentorship to [...]

2806, 2023

Gianna Mooney

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Matthew Kelly once said, “People won’t do anything until they are inspired. But once they are inspired, there is almost nothing they won’t do.” I commit to inspirational mentorship - inspiring teens and young adults through beautiful art. Each artwork will speak to a trauma that young people face. Using social media, I will mentor them, encourage them, and connect them with mental health resources so they can begin healing [...]

2806, 2023

Gonzalo Montero

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My wife and I want to establish Family Enrichment USA Courses in the Phoenix metropolitan area. Parenthood is a divine gift, and we want to help other parents understand and truly value their role in their own families and in the family culture in society. Recently, through Tepeyac Leadership, I was able to meet one of the sessions presenters, Nora Urrea, who currently serves as the National President of Family [...]

2806, 2023

Maria Socorro Mendiola (Sockee)

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to promote the dignity of human life from the moment of conception to natural death. Life is a sacred gift from God. “For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). I plan to participate in prayer groups outside of abortion centers to pray for mothers, their unborn children and to end abortion. I will volunteer at pregnancy resource centers to [...]

2806, 2023

Maria Mejia

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to promote the dignity of human life from the moment of conception to natural death. Life is a sacred gift from God. “For You formed my inward parts; You knitted me together in my mother’s womb” (Psalm 139:13). I plan to participate in prayer groups outside of abortion centers to pray for mothers, their unborn children and to end abortion. I will volunteer at pregnancy resource centers to [...]

2806, 2023

John Michael Schmidt

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Many college graduates begin their career with goals of secular success. While not a bad pursuit, it can lead to removing their faith from the equation. My commitment is to flip this by working with graduating seniors at my parish, located on a state university, teaching them how to live as authentic Catholic laypersons in the corporate world. I will use my knowledge from TLI, Church teaching, and witness of [...]

2806, 2023

Alexandra Lopez Jimenez

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As an active lay person in my community, I would like to contribute as a philanthropist by connecting with the local community organizations that I am passionate about, the first one is Maggie’s Place. I am passionate about this organization because it caters to single moms and their children. I am passionate about this cause because it hits a personal story on my part. Such organizations like this one, The [...]

2806, 2023

Jerry LoCoco

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to form a community foundation (Causa Sui Foundation "CSF") in Yuma County Arizona. CSF's mission is to improve border communities through virtuous action rooted in Faith, Hope, and Love. By improving properties and removing blight, exterior improvement of the lived environment and interior improvement of those living in the community, will incrementally grow and support the other. As the interior and exterior improvements multiply, so too will the [...]

2806, 2023

Maria Gaaba Lakel

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Following my Leadership formation with TLI, I have been blessed and honored to reflect on my leadership obligation not just in church but in my profession. My commitment to God, the church and to my community is to serve God through my profession as a communications person, writer, and storyteller. I commit to use my time, presence, and workspace to evangelize through my behavior towards my peers, work deliverables and [...]

2806, 2023

Joe Langenderfer

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has been an illuminating and peace-filled experience for which I’m most grateful. The most significant takeaway from TLI has been my re-introduction to God the Holy Spirit. TLI has helped condition me to pray more often to the Holy Spirit and remain vigilant of God’s direction. To that end, I am committed to actively seek board membership in a local business group, local and national trade associations related to [...]

2806, 2023

Christine Lacayo

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to building a conscious Catholic community on a regenerative farm, a Catholic sanctuary embracing a regenerative way of living on earth and in our hearts. It will be built with zero waste materials, run on 100% clean energy, source its own water and food, and protect vast acres of deeply biodiverse rainforests and coastlines. We will build a chapel for people to worship, work with local fishermen and [...]

2806, 2023

Bachir Kallas

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I want to start out by saying how grateful I am for TLI. My heart has been awakened spiritually during the past five months because of this journey, which has also given me the professional abilities I need to do my job every day. I promise to use my resources to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ to everyone. Because of this, I decided to start where I am and [...]

2806, 2023

Joby Jose

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My personal mission is to foster a movement of solidarity within my Catholic network, uniting believers in a shared purpose of supporting the Church's mission to boldly proclaim the truth without being threatened by the dependencies of this world. Drawing inspiration from Sirach 4:28, "Strive for the truth unto death, and the Lord will fight for you," and Galatians 6:2, "Carry each other's burdens...," I want to foster solidarity through [...]

2806, 2023

Dr. Jing-yee Hung

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As my leadership commitment, I pledge to dedicate my life to working for the Lord. As a Catholic Doctor, I vow to promote and defend human dignity by applying catholic bioethics directives. I acknowledge my vocation to a humanitarian mission. I will care for the poor so that the right of each person to basic health care is respected. By protecting the fundamental rights of all individuals, I will contribute to the common good. [...]

2806, 2023

Sharon Hoffman

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I committed to living my life for Jesus as a member of the Catholic Church in 1977. My faith, my marriage, my family, and my work have always been ways to serve and grow in holiness. But I must admit it’s been difficult seeing some of the changes in today’s ever growing secular climate. Participating in the TLI program has been both refreshing and encouraging. The program is rich in [...]

2806, 2023

Chris Hoffman

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will strive to love my wife and strengthen our marriage through prayer, self-sacrifice, fasting and developing mutual interest for the sake of unity and contentment. I am committed to building family faith and culture with my children, in-laws, and grandchildren through personal development with each of my family members showing genuine interest in each of them. Family celebration, adventure, working together and prayer are all opportunities to build strong [...]

2806, 2023

Matt Hayes

By |June 28th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The Holy Spirit has been very generous to the diocese of Nashville throughout the last few decades. We find ourselves incredibly blessed with a good bishop, strong priests as well as growth and vigor within the laity. My leadership commitment will be a response to these gifts and talents we’ve been entrusted with.  First, I recommit to my wife and family as my top priority. Second, I will work to [...]

2706, 2023

Belem Gonzalez Gallaga

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI was a blessing and I feel so grateful to this great family because I had the opportunity to grow spiritually and learn from the experiences and wisdom that other lay Catholic professionals. My leadership commitment is to apply everything I have learned in my digital evangelization project called "Gracia y Virtud", continuing with the mission of sharing the Word of God and His fatherly love through art and creativity. [...]

2706, 2023

Dorothy Godines

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

One thing that I feel is lacking in today’s church is an understanding of mental health and God’s plan for it in our lives. My leadership commitment is to begin a non-profit organization that will bring awareness of mental health within the church. This organization will allow for Catholics to gain a deeper understanding of how our mental health issues can be redeemed and lead us to flourishing. One of [...]

2706, 2023

Rafania El Daccache

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” - 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 My commitment is to witness to the Resurrection of Jesus through my everyday life and through the example I set to others. I commit [...]

2706, 2023

Matthew Doeing

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

For my Tepeyac Leadership Initiative leadership-commitment, I would like to develop and write one article a month, for a year, for a Substack or a similar online writing platform. The idea will be to write articles that reflect God’s Truth, as well as the mercy of God, while honoring Catholic teaching.  Theology may also be explored, as well as articles that in some way touch upon modern culture or modern societal [...]

2706, 2023

Mark Dobeck

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The TLI program is tremendously enlightening and inspirational. I better understand that being Catholic is an action-based, totally integrated way of life, manifest through God’s plan. I will accept challenges as opportunities to apply Catholic doctrine as an active participant, not a spectator. I will use the gifts, education, experience, and skills endowed by God to teach, lecture, write, and/or conduct research for a Catholic educational institution. It’s an open [...]

2706, 2023

Sarah Dao-Bai

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to continue pursuing Business as a Vocation. With the help of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, I commit to helping form the next generations of virtuous business professionals and leaders. I desire to use my coaching skills, business experience, and pastoral ministry training to assist those feeling lost, uplift the discouraged, and empower others to cast an exciting vision for their future. Finally, I commit to paying it forward [...]

2706, 2023

Delphine Chui

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI was the formation and fellowship I needed, especially after spending my 20s as a mainstream magazine journalist. Having experienced cancel culture at the hands of the secular media industry for my pro-life views, I was tempted to be a quiet Catholic. I lost work, friends, and confidence. But everything God stripped from my life; He continues to give back tenfold. I am now a content creator, a Catholic speaker [...]

2706, 2023

Mario Cerda

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

First, I would like to thank the TLI team, especially Cristofer, who never gave up on me. The TLI programme has been an incredible experience of finding Jesus in my fellow brothers around the world, who share the same love and passion for God. As a Catholic professional, I commit to serve with humility and love. I will lead by example. I will never put material interest over a person’s [...]

2706, 2023

Renee Carmine-Jones

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Mother Teresa said, “If you want to change the world, go home and love your family.” I thank God for TLI initiatives through which my responsibility to peaceful prayer was magnified, so Jesus, not “I”, can bring the Catechism to my family and neighbor. With humility, patience, discipline, it is my time to slow down, listen, love and be loved by Jesus. It will take all I have to commit to [...]

2706, 2023

Enrico Calini

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has truly been a great gift and a blessing from the Lord God and Our Lady, one I didn't even know I was longing for. First, I commit to live out my Confirmation by being a servant leader wherever I will fare in my personal, civil, and business life. May I never lack the humility to do so. By His Mercy in particular I desire to commit to use [...]

2706, 2023

Chad Brown

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Participating in TLI has been a spiritually energizing and enlivening experience that I will always carry with me. As a Tepeyac Leader, I am committing to forming a Christian community within my workplace to glorify God in prayer, word, fellowship, and good works. My goal is that this effort will lead to the establishment of a formal Business Resource Group for Christians at my workplace; an ecumenical network of like-minded individuals [...]

2706, 2023

Soraya Bravo

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I have lived the TLI experience with great joy, expanding my knowledge of the Catholic faith, among kind and sharp professionals. Concluding the program, I commit to seeking the Lord’s face in my daily work and vocation as a mother. I will continue to exert my talents as a communicator and educator, giving the best of me to benefit my community with my bilingual skills. I will additionally seek to serve a nonprofit [...]

2706, 2023

Elaine Biggs

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Elaine M. Biggs’ personal commitment involves a three-tier approach. In the short term, I will further study and strengthen my spiritual background to encompass a full deep study of Catholic Catechism and Catholic Bible, how to be a disciple, how to handle difficult questions and Mariology. Intermediate Term: I will join a local school board to help shape the curriculum. Serve as a board member for a minimum of three [...]

2706, 2023

Gift Barine Ekun

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Through TLI, I have gained broad knowledge on topics surrounding various spheres, and this has improved my confidence as a young Catholic woman to answer the call to action in areas that need to be addressed. From my position as a pharmacist, my leadership commitment is to be closer to individuals as they bring their medical problems to me. I will also provide psychological support, especially to girls living with [...]

2706, 2023

Teresa Beamonte

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I want to express my gratitude to TLI for the opportunity to delve into such current and engaging topics throughout the sessions and for meeting such valuable people. Personally, I would like to contribute with my professional experience at TLI's service to help spread the message in Spanish-speaking countries through the recently published book. I commit to working on the Spanish-version of the book.

2706, 2023

Paul Arias

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment will include the development of a framework that helps institutions enable a sacramental level life at all levels of civic and social life. My prayer is that this framework helps institutions become bearers of and witness to the healing power of the light of Christ, and lead to a civilization of Charity.

2706, 2023

Gabrielle Angresano

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment after graduating from TLI will be to involve myself in a future board membership in my personal and professional communities to further spread the joy of the Gospel and Spirit of Christ. In today’s culture, it is imperative that a young adult is a strong witness to the healing powers of God’s goodness despite the world’s imperfections. I am excited to walk forward with the knowledge and [...]

2706, 2023

Josephine Neema Amaniyo

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I work with Catholic Campus Students Mission Uganda, (CCSMU) to empower university students to participate in evangelization, challenging them to live in the fullness of the Catholic faith and become leaders for the renewal of the world. As a result of my journey with TLI, I commit to develop new ideas that will help mentor university students find their uniqueness, connecting them to the specific needs in society that God's [...]

2706, 2023

Victoria Adekoya

By |June 27th, 2023|Categories: 2023 Cohort|

My commitment is to try to spend time in prayer discerning God’s Will. I will try to use what I have learnt through the program to help serve the Catholic Church. I will seek opportunities to volunteer with Catholic/Christian organizations and serve others. 

607, 2022

Yvette Montano

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

First and foremost, I want to say that I am so thankful for TLI. The past five months have been a journey that has spiritually opened my heart to learn more about my catholic faith and provide me with professional skills that I use daily in my work. It has also allowed me to discern where God is guiding me to be in this world. My leadership commitment for the [...]

607, 2022

Yuritzi Vargas

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to live out my Fiat to God’s call of being a virtuous Proverbs 31 woman in my family, work, and communities. During TLI, I was blessed by the program and God leading me to a new environment. I will continue discerning and take guidance from the Holy Spirit to see what my commitment looks like in the future. Thus far, I know it is to lead [...]

607, 2022

Yesenia Carrera

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to building an intentional community amongst women, particularly their post-graduate but pre-martial season of life who wish to dedicate this prime season of life to grow in cultivating our unique feminine genius through the Catholic intellectual tradition and a sisterhood community. This sisterhood community will be facilitated using study guides created by the Endow Podcast. The hope is that women who participate in these sisterhood communities will each [...]

607, 2022

Wendy Cano

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI was a gift that reminded me that He gave me a unique mission, a wonderful charisma, and several natural talents. I will actively use these gifts every day in my Virtuous Leadership to create and develop more transdisciplinary projects with the support of the members of XOCIARTEK. Art, science, and God's good love are the ingredients that can transform local environments into possibilities to have a better life. I [...]

607, 2022

Valerie Staples

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a graduate of TLI, my commitment will be to apply what I have learned from the stellar trainers in our program to my work as a Director with Legal Shield Services. I will strive to share my faith more boldly with my clients and fellow Associates. More importantly, I am going to recommit to receiving our Lord at daily Mass so that I can carry our Lord with me [...]

607, 2022

Tania Vasquez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to keep the Lord in the center of my life, to prefer his will before mine, to humbly trust him in every situation regardless if it makes sense or not to my human eye, and to be a witness of his love in my family, friends and at my workplace. I commit to advocate for the healthcare of children, especially the most vulnerable, including those with Down Syndrome [...]

607, 2022

Sophia Cartwright

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am committing to standing steadfast for the good amidst the festering falsehood perpetuated by the culture. I want to do this especially by dedicating myself to Catholic secondary and post-secondary education, helping to form young people in the warm glow of the knowledge of their own phenomenal worth and securing them in the glory of the truths I have been shown. I seek particularly to affirm their unshakable dignity, [...]

607, 2022

Skylar Covich

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will continue and expand my involvement in the disability rights movement and in local politics, including through more board service. I also will continue my service in parish ministries such as the choir and mailing list and seek to join at least one Catholic or pro-life board.  

607, 2022

Silvia Lugo

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In reflecting what's a commitment, I remembered when I flew to start Medical School. I carried a book on the plane that's about being commitment and making peace with marriage. Little did I know, I was about to begin a journey in my life. Well, I've not been married to a man yet. I'll leave a legacy of hope and love, being led by God to joyfully serve in healing [...]

607, 2022

Sarah Brotman

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will start volunteering at a Pregnancy Resource Center in the next six months. In addition, I will create (or join if one already exists) a community of Catholic scientists at my next job where we can network, have meetings, and facilitate discussions on current issues we face as Catholic scientists working in a very secularized environment. Ideally, this will give Catholic scientists who feel isolated a community where we [...]

607, 2022

Sara Macias

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I feel that through this program and the people in it, God is calling me to step up to bat to serve to a “greater” degree. As I thought about how to serve best with my 3 T’s… I came to the foundational conclusion that above all, I want to continue to establish what God asks of all of us first; “Love God with my everything, neighbor as self.” As [...]

607, 2022

Samson Patras

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My TLI commitment is to uplift the Catholic community in Pakistan by engaging the underserved youth in remote jobs. I will launch an organization to create employment opportunities for catholic youth in the country that permits them to express their community in faith, fill a need in the labor market for US companies at more affordable wages, and improve the standard of living and quality of life for the poorest [...]

607, 2022

Sachin Jose

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I can do my part in promoting TLI on social media, especially on Twitter. Within a couple of months, I will make the TLI page reach 1000 followers. I will try to promote TLI in India and I will share about TLI to other people whom I know. I am ready to be part of the TLI team in developing social media marketing content. I am ready to offer my [...]

607, 2022

Riley Quinlan

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My employer, Republic Services, Inc. has several employee resources groups, available company wide. Like nearly all these organizations of corporate America, these groups are rather “woke,” politically charged (in some format or another), and stem from intersectional characteristics (race, gender, sexuality, etc.). There is not yet any kind of religious group for employees to take advantage of on their own time at the workplace. This afternoon, I’ve reached out to [...]

607, 2022

Rebecca Wergin

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The TLI experience has been the opportunity of a lifetime. I am deeply grateful for being selected to participate. TLI has aided me in growing more deeply in my Roman Catholic faith and as a professional serving as an adult gerontology nurse practitioner. The TLI faith leaders and cohort members were truly inspiring. As a result, I commit to becoming a TLI mentor, offering to present for TLI on human [...]

607, 2022

Rachel Rothans

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Through the Holy Spirit, TLI inspired me to act, with my time and talent, to support the pro-life movement. I commit to becoming a missionary with Biking for Babies, to take on a long-distance cycling mission to raise awareness and funds for pregnancy resource centers nationwide to assist women and families experiencing crisis pregnancies. Additionally, I will volunteer at the Lamb of God maternity home. The home provides care to [...]

607, 2022

Peter Kersting

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

According to a Harvard report in 2021, 36% of all Americans—including 61% of young adults and 51% of mothers with young children—feel “serious loneliness.” With increased isolation we also see fewer examples of virtue in relationships. Many cannot recognize what true friendship looks like, let alone how to strive for it. Too many of us struggle with serious sexual addictions negatively impacting our marriages, families, and ultimately the culture. In [...]

607, 2022

Pedro Cadena Díaz

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I, Pedro Cadena Díaz, in the presence of God, freely and willingly commit myself to put my time, treasure and talents to the service of God, the Catholic Church and all the people of God, through the faithful fulfillment of my duties as a formator. I will earnestly continue my path of professional formation and follow through with the process of writing my book "What is life about?". May this [...]

607, 2022

Patrick Novecosky

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

God has given me the gift of being able to communicate well, particularly through the written word. My commitment is to write another book before the end of the year and to have it published in 2023. My first book was on Pope St. John Paul II’s legacy. This new book will focus on the legacy of his closest collaborator—Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the man who became Pope Benedict XVI. Through [...]

607, 2022

Ossman E Padilla Monzon

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will become a better missionary disciple, father, husband, brother, son, and leader. I’ll continue to feed my soul and heart with Jesus’ love and share with others my genuine desire for a better society. My commitment is to ignite the hearts of others by serving as an example to bring them closer to Jesus and his Church. As a Catholic leader, I have the responsibility to use the values [...]

607, 2022

Monica O’Hearn

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I deeply desire to give my life to the Lord to allow Him to use me however He wants to.  I therefore commit to putting Christ before everything else by spending time with Him each day through daily mass, adoration and praying the rosary.  I also commit to being available to serve my parish in whatever ways they could use my assistance, such as by teaching CCD or RCIA classes.  [...]

607, 2022

Monica Kauzeni

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to dedicate myself to my role as a trustee at Ursuline Links, a charity founded by the Ursuline Sisters in the UK to connect Ursuline Catholic Girls' High Schools globally for social justice projects and mission work. I will volunteer at a day camp project with children this summer and will continue to visit Ursuline High Schools and share with students how they can live out [...]

607, 2022

Miguel Castillo

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My commitment is to launch an initiative within the next 6 to 12 months for laymen, to commit to one Holy Hour per week. We need to reclaim our place in creation as leaders and protectors, “to serve and to guard” (Gen 2:15), beginning with prayer. This Holy Hour is to include prayer for Holy Mother Church and for holy vocations to the priesthood, for families (including our own) and [...]

607, 2022

Michael Newhouse

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will invest time to develop my non-profit founded in 2021 to build a shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe in Houston to evangelize millions. I will develop a brand/marketing plan, materials, video, and a plan to approach angel investor donors. Ad Jesum per Mariam!  

607, 2022

Matthew Baumel

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Having lived overseas in different countries and now living in Mexico, I have seen how important it is to support local international communities. Many countries do not have the resources the US has and count on services and financial donations from those that can help. I commit to help fundraise for a local orphanage in Mexico and spearhead a program to help educate kids in both English and computer literacy, [...]

607, 2022

Maritza Perrault

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I want to preserve Catholic culture for women and girls in our church. My plan is to compile a quarterly magazine for Catholic schools. I hope to recruit team members with future cohorts and current TLI leaders who I believe would really add a special touch and presence to the magazine project that I have in mind. I want this to undo the effects of trashy magazines and other unsuitable [...]

607, 2022

Mario Benitez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has been an immense blessing in my life; I have been able to discern my place in society and how I can try to be light in a secular world in need of Christ. My leadership commitment will revolve around my academic goals. I was able to get into a prestigious fellowship at my university which helps students develop into strong Ph.D. candidates for academia. By the grace of [...]

607, 2022

Mariana Medina

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to continue to be open to the will of God. Continuing to serve with gratitude as a parish council member, cherishing my catholic principles as a city board member. Speak life with my testimony; continuing to educate and serve all families, while I also love and care for my own marriage vocation and family ministry. My commitment is to seek opportunities for my spiritual and academic [...]

607, 2022

Luis Fernando Calvo

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit myself, because of the generous training program offered by Tepeyac Leadership, to return to my home country, Costa Rica, and contribute to the creation of a true catholic culture by providing the much-needed training, through the appropriate institutional setting, to catholic laymen that are ready to influence the discussion and take the country to better grounds. Also, I will actively participate, God willingly, in Higher Education due to [...]

607, 2022

Lourdes Llata

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to practice my catholic faith by the practice and vote of faith. Also, to be an exemplary leader of devotion, giving priority importance to the Rosary. TLI enlightens the path to follow without fear or doubt to promote my admiration to Maria. I have no fear to continue devotion developing a prayer group to promote the love to Maria, Mother of Christ, the example of a [...]

607, 2022

Lorenzo Badiola

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In order to combat the culture of death in public schools, I will start a Catholic club at my local high school: Vista Grande High School, which I am an alumnus of. In this Catholic Club, we will study the Bible and the best of what Catholic Theology has to offer as well as pray the breviary and encourage regular attendance of Confession and Mass, so that all may be [...]

607, 2022

Kelly Dripps

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My commitment is to continue to call on the holy spirit's gifts and charisms as I build a network of Catholic HR professionals to collaborate and generate resources for other Catholics in secular HR. The goal is to create HR initiatives to exemplify Catholic Social Teaching in secular organizations. This will create a shift in business cultures to foster environments that respect each person's worth and dignity. I pledge to [...]

607, 2022

Karla Gomez Araya

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

With the great professional learning that I have received, I commit to serve the Lord by teaching catechism to children. I stopped teaching after I went to college, but it has been a desire rooted in my heart to go back to the classrooms. I now commit to use what I learned in TLI, especially in session 3 about education, and the dangers that parents need to be aware of [...]

607, 2022

Karla E. Bracamonte

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

At this point, my family and career have stabilized. I am constantly thinking, “what does God want from me now?” During my retreat, I reflected on the most painful memory. 20 years ago, I lost my baby at six months pregnant. The only regret I have is how I dealt with it. The poor formation I had for dealing with this grief contributed to my suffering. I have the conviction [...]

607, 2022

Kaitlyn Elkinton

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

During TLI, I was deeply moved when we discussed the call to sanctify our work. I promise to bring Christ into the reliability of the electric grid. I will joyfully serve the energy needs of his people in the Western Interconnection. I will see Christ in my fellow engineers and be ready to account for Him as the source of my joy. I shall build more silence into my life [...]

607, 2022

Jovita Hernandez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

For my Leadership Commitment, I will submit my application for the Walton County Public Library Advisory Board as there is a vacancy in District 4. This will be an opportunity for me to participate in public government. I look forward to engaging with local government and provide advice and recommendations from our Catholic perspective to the Board of County Commissioners. I look forward for another board opportunity that allows me [...]

607, 2022

Joseph Pillado

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My commitment is to help the homeless and those in need. Through involvement with Saint Vincent De Paul, I hope to serve others through their rising leaders’ program. Furthermore, I would like to recommit myself to my academic community at Arizona State University through participation in leadership positions at the student level.  

607, 2022

Jose Melero

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment will be to start a catholic music band. A few years ago, God put in my heart the mission of evangelizing through music and all these years I have feared doing it by making excuses. Furthermore, I will keep working with Missionaries of Mary and the Guadalupe Project to develop a Regional Center of Evangelization in Phoenix, Arizona. Finally I will look to be part of a [...]

607, 2022

Joshua Fredrickson

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My immediate leadership commitment is twofold: First, to find a way to re-engage in leading faith formation in the Catholic Church. Second, to sincerely discern a commitment to Porters of Saint Joseph, an organization of Catholic men dedicated to providing security for their parishes. My longer-term commitment is to always consider how I can use my personal gain to assist those less fortunate.  

607, 2022

Jordan Brittain

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

During my time at TLI, the Lord has instilled in me a desire to become more of a leader in my parish community. I joined the choir at St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Church and intend to start a Right to Life chapter there to increase pro-life outreach and awareness in South Phoenix. I was born on the feast of St. Catherine of Siena, and I also have been formed [...]

607, 2022

Jonas Sanchez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Being part of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative showed me that Catholic faith, morals, and values can be put into practice amidst a secular setting and that one’s faith is not incompatible with the duties of life. Since starting the program, I have been increasingly placed in positions of leadership and the foundation has been set firmly by the TLI program. To have been part of this program as a young [...]

607, 2022

John Fuller

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

"First, “No one gives what he does not have.” I commit to, with my pastor, developing a plan of life to receive what God wishes to give those around me. Second, I commit to researching professional organizations I could join in hopes of future board service. Finally, inspired by this community and St. Josemaria Escriva, I will strive to live my work as the means of sanctification it is: through [...]

607, 2022

John Burd

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Our Session 7 Envisioning Exercise was to “develop an initiative to promote the development of healthier alternatives for media.” My response was a proposal for a screenwriting competition with a $100,000 award for the best script written in accordance with the Hays Code. For a relatively modest sum, plus some additional funds for administration of the contest, Catholics could commission the creation of beautiful stories which have the potential to [...]

607, 2022

Jesse Jones

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

At an early age I began serving my local parish, and at the time of my confirmation, my faith became an immovable part of my everyday life thanks to many great leaders in the church. I have now served in multiple leadership roles and have worked as a Diocesan employee for over 3 years. God’s grace has given me skills in the areas of IT/AV, finance, and creative media; with [...]

607, 2022

Jaylem Durousseau

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will help create a new coalition of Civic, church, and lay leaders to rebuild a culture of Life in Colorado. We will work to build up more leaders committed to the dignity of the human person that will work to change the laws and culture of the state.  

607, 2022

Janaina Bárbara Stefanon Rizzo da Silva

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort|

As a catholic, Brazilian, and petroleum engineer, I will keep my faith, let Chris’s light shine in me and influence others for Christ. Also, I will help TLI translate its content to Portuguese in the new book “Catholic Leadership for Civil Society.” After everything I gained in the program, I realized there is a gap in Brazil regarding how to be a catholic and a professional. Because of that, I [...]

607, 2022

Jacob Loel

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I reflected at length on my leadership commitment, and concluded after prayer, reflection, and speaking with my TLI Mentor. For my Leadership Commitment, I plan to write a book on the promotion of Human Dignity through policy, using Aquinas and St. Augustine's writings as my primary sources. This will be a long and difficult process, but I am excited to embrace this challenge to which I feel I am called. [...]

607, 2022

Inoh Choe

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to being a servant entrepreneur working to bring the Kingdom of God serving as the President of Young Catholic Professionals in Denver is just the beginning. As I build the foundation of a global, yet local community of like-minded Catholic professionals in Colorado, I will share love in organizational action, integrated across leadership, innovation, and venture creation. Instead of leveraging cultural trends for gain, I will build products [...]

607, 2022

Greg Richmond

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My TLI Leadership Commitment includes three goals. First, I plan to finish a pro-life documentary which is just starting the editing process.  Second, I will be supporting Radio Family Rosary, based here in Phoenix, which has been going strong for 31 years. Third, and God willing, I would like to start a production company which would produce compelling life affirming content. I will work with others to accomplish these goals [...]

607, 2022

Giovani da Silva

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am a recent civil engineering graduate starting my career in project management for a construction company. My main commitment is to bring my faith and my leadership skills from TLI to grow in my career and my personal life through any challenges I may run into against my Catholic beliefs. Using my principals and solid foundation to be an example of Christ in my work, home and relationships. Along [...]

607, 2022

Geovanna Espinosa

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

It wasn’t until session six that my heart felt a deep call to begin my journey as a spiritual mentor with the English-speaking audience. Therefore, my leadership commitment is to offer life coaching sessions with the concept of spirituality. I commit to help entrepreneurs to identify their God’s gifts, their unique strengths and apply that into new businesses they will create. Thank you, TLI, for allowing me to find my [...]

607, 2022

Gabriela Hernández Franch

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As I reflect on my time of learning and new formation through TLI, I know I am called to live my life in a magnanimous way. I feel called to share my story of being a Catholic, millennial, immigrant, professional Latina woman and how God has been present and faithful in my life. I commit to contributing to TLI’s new platform The Catholic Professional, where I can share my thoughts, [...]

607, 2022

Frank Lezameta

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

During my life, God has shown me his infinite love and mercy, putting wonderful people in my life, without them I would not have been able to achieve anything in my life. This year the Lord gave me the grace to participate in the TLI Leadership Program. In gratitude, my commitment is to use the talents that God gave me to help TLI with its digital marketing assets, as well [...]

607, 2022

Francisca Azucena Enriquez-Walton

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is with God, myself, and my community. I will keep growing spiritually by seeking a certificate on Spirituality and Spiritual direction. Also, I will volunteer in a nonprofit organization called Literacy Connects. Further, I will take a leadership role and serve on a board. Finally, I am committed to promote the TLI program in my community.

607, 2022

Francis J. Cherney

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In thanksgiving for the opportunity to deepen my knowledge of the Catholic faith as a member of TLI, my leadership commitment will be to serve as the Director of Outreach for Young Catholic Professional’s Nashville chapter. My efforts will be to build upon the growing YCP organization to broaden the scope of membership and sponsor support within the greater Nashville area. I aim to further the mission of TLI by [...]

607, 2022

Fernando Gomez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a Catholic Leader, father, and friend - I feel my calling is to share with others the gift and beauty our faith is and how it's always striving to embrace, console & welcome all to a virtuous perspective in life. Pope Francis has declared that synodality is: "What God expects of the church in the 21st Century." In response to his call, I will seek board and volunteer opportunities [...]

607, 2022

Estaban Rojas

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will use my technical experience to mentor, both through a nonprofit and personally, those seeking to better their lives by learning software development. Furthermore, I will seek to eventually be a board member of a nonprofit organization that seeks to help underserved populations receive technical training. I will fulfill these with all my heart and determination so that I can serve as a mirror of God’s love to those [...]

607, 2022

Edmund Patrick Adamus

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

To support the mission and apostolate of the National Association of Catholic Families in the UK by being a member of their Executive Board and guiding/advising on spiritual/pastoral/catechetical activity. This will complement my membership of the Lords and Commons Family and Child Protection Group within the UK Government structures to advance the rights of parents as the primary educators and protectors of their children. Besides this, I shall continue to [...]

607, 2022

Dora Ng

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am committed to begin an apostolate within my parish where early childhood catholic families (kids 0-5 years) can find comfort, fellowship, and community. In my opinion, the domestic church is currently being under-served within young families in the Catholic community. We need to be empowered to raise our children confidently in the faith with the support of like-minded families.  

607, 2022

Delia Sanchez

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a beloved of God, I will love and know Him more by attending daily Mass and Adoration as much as possible. I will strive to be more respectful, understanding, and humble towards my parents. I will be an advocate for the truth, goodness, and beauty of one's true identity as a daughter or son of God. As a Pre-Planning Advisor of funeral arrangements, I will help others make a [...]

607, 2022

Charles Adams

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to writing and directing a short film each year for the next 5 years that confronts cultural issues directly opposing Church teaching.  The ultimate goal is to both make the viewer think, and to present the viewer with truth, beauty, and goodness. Each of these films will be submitted to film fests and shared as widely as possible so the message in each film can be seen by [...]

607, 2022

Carolina Cequini Carreira Gottschalk

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a visual storyteller and concept artist, I’ll commit to live a life of catholic leadership by using my talents and skills the best way I can—striving for greatness and striving to bring Truth and Beauty to the projects I contribute to in the film and gaming industries. Using my Feminine Genius, I hope to be able to always cherish life in my household, to lead by example, to nurture [...]

607, 2022

Ana Karen Loera

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

For my TLI 2022 West Leadership commitment, I want to start a group of women, which can come together to pray, discuss our faith, and help each other heal past wounds. I have found a need among catholic women to feel accompanied in their journey through support and prayer. Moreover, I would like to volunteer for an organization called Riverside Life Services. They provide pregnancy resources for women.

607, 2022

Allison Taylor

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I have been very fortunate to have received many years of Catholic education. It has changed my life and greatly strengthened my faith. For my leadership commitment I plan to help with religious education at a local parish in any way I can. The world today does not encourage Catholics or most Catholic teachings. As part of my commitment to Catholic education, I also want to live my life as [...]

607, 2022

Alex Okello

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a result of TLI experience, I commit to establish a discipleship and business skills development program that will annually form and train 100–Catholic young people in Institutions of higher learning in East Africa, with livelihood and evangelization skills needed for renewal and transformation of the church and the society at large.

607, 2022

Alejandro de la Maza

By |July 6th, 2022|Categories: 2022 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Society today is deeply influenced by the media it consumes. Pope John Paul II stated that: “the cinema, with its vast possibilities, could become a powerful means of evangelization.” My mission as a TLI graduate will be to create a business that facilitates the creation of quality motion pictures that portray the truth about the dignity of the human person by bringing Catholic and Christian creators together to share ideas [...]

1006, 2021

Deepika Joseph

By |June 10th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As an Indian Catholic, coming into this program has opened my eyes as to how it can be applied in my country where Christians are a minority. I commit to use my skills as an IT professional to represent Christ in my dealings with people, holding up moral values on the technologies I work on. My immediate approach would be to work with my home parish to create and contribute [...]

906, 2021

John Wiley

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am launching Dream Big Mastermind, a coaching program that helps young adults and teens to establish goals and develop the skills, habits, and the drive to attain those goals. A survey of colleges showed 10% of the incoming freshmen are prepared to do the work. Upon graduation only 20% of the students are prepared to enter the workforce. How prepared are those who did not to go to college? [...]

906, 2021

Daniel Selmeczy

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Last year I founded TAM NOVA, a professional coaching program for Catholic leaders. I joined TLI because I was curious to see what other Catholic leadership programs were doing. My leadership commitment is to continue building the Kingdom of God through TAM NOVA. We offer transformative coaching, collaboration, and, ultimately, unique creation of unprecedented results. We believe that all humans are renewed, developed, and sanctified through bold, creative, and risky [...]

906, 2021

Christopher Sanchez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Since its inception the Catholic Church has held values that called for the sanctity of life and dignity of all human beings. These values are critical to the Catholic way of life and society as a whole. However, we have seen these values compromised in the policy making process. That is why I commit to creating a Catholic youth policy seminar for high school students from underserved communities that will [...]

906, 2021

Amy Rodriguez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a digital artist, I desire to use the gifts and talents the Lord has blessed me with to advance the kingdom of God here on earth. With the grace of God, my leadership commitment for the near future is to author and illustrate a series of children’s books that inspire a love for Jesus Christ. My long-term commitment is to allow the Holy Spirit to work through me and [...]

906, 2021

Gina Perez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I am thankful for the gift of TLI, which has allowed me to further discern my place in the world that surrounds me here in my community. My leadership commitment is as multi-faceted as is the community where I live and work. I will continue to be a voice on the importance of intersectionality of the Catholic-Chicano identity. This lens in my graduate thesis. I will use my TLI lessons [...]

906, 2021

Noelle Patno

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I seek to design and to implement a ballroom dance curriculum focused on deliberate teaching of Theology of the Body concepts through dance. The goal is to promote opportunities for young adult Catholics to interact in healthy and positive physical interactions to counteract the hookup culture and to promote the understanding of our bodies as sacred gifts. This dance curriculum would be designed for the gap between confirmation and marriage. [...]

906, 2021

Mauricio Nunez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I was brought back to our faith at a beautiful retreat center in the middle of the Los Angeles metro area. The serenity of that center was as impactful as the activities of those ministering the retreat. By profession, I consult on corporate real estate strategy. Therefore, I commit to advising Catholic and other faith-based organizations on maximizing real estate assets and fundraising for capital improvements. My ultimate goal is [...]

906, 2021

Megan Nobert

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I'll be committing to serving on the Advisory Board of IBUS at SFSU, my college. I just created a curriculum and am starting outreach for a new mentorship program that I worked with my professors on to create in which mentors will offer career coaching to students and alumni. I will join at least one Catholic networking organization post-graduation pending further research as well as continuing discernment of where God [...]

906, 2021

Bryan Martin

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Blended families are becoming much more of a reality, and the church is going to have to better understand how to deal with them. It is a very difficult issue. I commit to becoming a resource to new couples that are setting out to get married into a blended family. They will face many challenges unforeseen now, which are clouded by the ‘honeymoon’ stage of life. You are already marrying [...]

906, 2021

Carolina Manalac-Bentancourt

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is dedicated to an up-and-coming Catholic classical school, The Good Shepherd Academy, which was inspired by our late Good Shepherd, Fr. Luis Marx, and faithful homeschooling parents. I honestly believe that God has placed TLI in my path which is the reason why I came back on board with the school. The Good Shepherd Academy pledges itself to the pursuit of truth, the love of the good [...]

906, 2021

Ifeanyi Ihenacho

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As my leadership commitment I plan to write a short book of meditations and spiritual reflections about the Lord’s Prayer. It will discuss the seven capital virtues, gifts of the holy spirit, and other elements of faith as they relate with each petition to our Father. I primarily intend for this book to stimulate deeper reflection upon the mysteries of God.

906, 2021

Monica Garcia

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Through TLI, I have come to appreciate and recognize the importance of faith formation. I was drawn to The Divine Mercy devotion. This last year I have been faithfully praying the Holy hour Chaplet and studying Jesus’ teachings. As a graduate of TLI 2021, I commit to promoting and teaching the authentic forms of the message and devotion to The Divine Mercy. I will encourage people to live out the [...]

906, 2021

Stanley Dicdican

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

For my Tepeyac leadership commitment, I would like to start an after-school program at my local parish educating and enriching kids about the Faith. I have seen from my faith journey the beauty of after-school program helping kids learn about the faith and evangelize others by their examples. With the inspiration of the Holy Spirit, I plan to bridge the gap between scripture and today's society and the importance of [...]

906, 2021

Veronica Fernandez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I have always been passionate about protecting the unborn. Years ago, I dreamed of having a non-profit to assist teenage pregnant mothers in crisis to provide them with shelter, education, parenting classes, and assist them with a career path to choose to keep their babies and provide for them. After doing some research, I realized that at least three organizations offer these services in Orange County; however, they are not [...]

906, 2021

John Fernandez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I want to help young men who are facing an unplanned pregnancy be able to support their family. I believe that if we can wrap our arms around these young men who are facing an unplanned pregnancy, grant them job skills and or continue education we can help them choose life. I have not been able to determine if an organization like this exists, but I have begun some discussion [...]

906, 2021

David Ciarametaro

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

While in prayer during the retreat, the Lord made it clear that He would like me to pursue something which has been on my heart for some time, which is acting. So, my concrete leadership commitment will be to audition for some time during the next few months. This may not seem like a tradition leadership commitment, however, I believe that leading in the area of the arts and entertainment [...]

906, 2021

Jamie Cappetta

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Thank you for the TLI experience. As the newly elected President of the South Bay of Los Angeles Legatus Chapter, my leadership commitment is to help grow the membership, strengthen the community and develop a strong list of speakers who will provide orthodox formation of Business Leaders. Along with Legatus, in October, I will be invested into the Order of Malta and will commit to giving myself in service to [...]

906, 2021

Cristofer Barajas

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As we come out of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever that everyone lives in community with one another. I also know that God made us for himself and calls all Christians into a relationship with Him. As a graduate of TLI, I plan to join my home parish council to work to build up the Body of Christ focusing on those two key elements: community and relationship with [...]

906, 2021

Jean Paul Afif

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

In reflecting upon my TLI experience and what commitment God would like me to make to Him, to myself, to my family, my community, our TLI leadership, and my classmates – I have decided to accept a volunteer position to join the board of directors for TLI nationally. I have given to prayerful discernment, reflection, and direction in arriving upon this decision. Working to advance TLI’s mission statement and program [...]

906, 2021

Claudia Vargas

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Trusting in God’s infinite providence and in our Blessed Mother’s powerful intercession, I commit to promoting a culture of life and respect for human dignity through prayer and action, by means of educating and creating awareness of morally permissive reproduction methods and techniques – according to the teachings of the Holy Catholic Church. Furthermore, I commit to honoring married couples struggling with infertility; to accompanying them in carrying their cross; [...]

906, 2021

Salvador Valldeperas

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The TLI program has impacted me positively both in terms of professional development and spiritual growth. I believe in the mission of TLI. As my leadership commitment I will become a facilitator for one of the national tracks of the program. I look forward to serving God through impacting other Catholic professionals and providing for them what TLI provided for me.

906, 2021

Benjamin Ranieri

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to giving to, and participating in, an organization that combats sex trafficking, with the intent to join a board on this type of organization. I’ve already started. Combating this injustice is a high priority. Further, I will take leadership roles in other boards and organizations, both Catholic and secular.

906, 2021

Augustine Payne

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

This Leadership Commitment is something I will try to do in thanksgiving for all that God has given to me through this TLI experience. The first gift is that I will strive to live out the call of charity in the public square more fully than before. I would like to start a podcast to talk about political issues from the Catholic perspective, or possibly becoming more involved in political [...]

906, 2021

Leticia Ortega

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to provide encouragement or affirmation to individuals I encounter to share their God given gifts and talents in society. In life discouragement is present at different stages but as a believer in Christ, I trust in Him, and He gives me hope. This hope is what I want to use for encouragement. An example is when Jesus entrusts Peter with His Church even after all his [...]

906, 2021

Anthony Nuccio

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to educating young Catholics in the beauty and truths of our shared faith by listening with an open heart, inspiring a desire to learn, and being a witness as they discover God’s love and mercy because of their innate human dignity.

906, 2021

Nathan Nasby

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

For my leadership commitment I aspire to make healing the political and social divisions within the Church in America a focus of my apostolate as a lay Catholic. As my experience with others has taught me, regardless of whether one chooses to vote Democrat or Republican, we all need our faith in order to navigate this world. The world, even before the pandemic, has introduced many social changes which not [...]

906, 2021

Stella Ritah Nabukeera

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Besides working with the teenage mothers to help them discover their inner worth, unveil the hidden potential and live out their life dreams; I am committing to helping in formation, pastoral care and mentoring of young adults that commit to full time evangelization in our Holy Trinity Covenant Community.

906, 2021

Belinda Mooney

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Archbishop Jose Gomez stated: “The motive and measure in everything we do is our concern to promote the flourishing of the human person.” I will use my gift of writing both Catholic and secular materials, make presentations, and individually help people (consulting and coaching) with putting the Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes into practice for a right, ordered life pleasing to God. I will help people further their prayer life by writing [...]

906, 2021

Sara Majkowski

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My Tepeyac Leadership Goal Commitment is to author a written work evaluating the current status of Catholic education in Canada. The written work, which will be a long essay or a book, will address various aspects of Catholic education, including sacramental and spiritual life, moral formation, academic rigor and the need for boldness in speaking the truth (especially in response to modern errors). Though my plan is to comment on [...]

906, 2021

Andrew Jambor

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Upon reflecting upon the TLI experience I will serve to uphold life from conception to natural death through things such as being involved in the pro-life movement and being a hospice volunteer. I will also seek out boards to serve on that uphold life, serve the needs of others, and help preserve the environment. In addition, I will strive to be the best husband I can and future father while [...]

906, 2021

Jesus Gomez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I pledge to actively practice and display Virtuous Leadership in every opportunity whether at work, in the Non-profit organization (St. Luke Productions) where I’m part of the board, at our Parish, as a lead Lector, as part of the Archdiocese pastoral Council, with my children, etc. I also pledge to deepen my faith according to God’s call and to use all I learned at TLI to become a mentor, a [...]

906, 2021

Make Gallitelli

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I will work with the Archdiocese of Seattle to create a comprehensive Spanish glossary. The glossary will not only include terms but also expressions and will be available online to all archdiocesan employees and clergy. I will work on the standardization of terminology for consistency throughout the Archdiocese, as well as in improving the quality of translations in all archdiocesan resources. Promote the translation of all homilies into Spanish to [...]

906, 2021

Cecilia Estrada

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Often in the public discourse, we lose the essence of what our faith teaches us beyond the black and white understandings on different issues. I want to help reshape conversations to bring focus to root issues in hopes of finding solutions. This may mean focusing on what causes a woman to walk through the doors seeking an abortion, what it means to be a woman in light of the gospel [...]

906, 2021

Jesus Espinoza

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My mission is to be independent of the world and dependent on God. I am passionate about standing up for the weak and speaking truth, even though it may be controversial or unpopular. I believe God is leading me to work for the vulnerable through my current healthcare position or as a representative of my community. I must be a leader in my household first before I can lead others. [...]

906, 2021

Arom Burgueno

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Tepeyac Leadership Institute has inspired me to share its knowledge of leadership. In the following school year, I will begin a book club with my colleagues at a public school using Virtuous Leadership by Alexandre Havard. Through this I hope to foster conversation about true leadership and open the door to a book club grounded in the Great Books model. This club will meet once a week among the faculty [...]

906, 2021

John Broughton

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My wife is an African American of protestant background. Since I reconnected with my Catholic roots a year ago and have been faithfully attending Mass every Sunday, I haven’t felt a connection or feeling of acceptance, resulting in a reluctance to take my entire family to Mass. This feeling is one that even my wife picked up on and we’ve talked about it. It’s an area I think I can [...]

906, 2021

Monica Servin

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

The pandemic has impacted everyone around the world, and with that it brought a lot of grief. Being inspired by the Holy Spirit, my own grief experience and seeing the increasingly big need to accompany individuals with their recent losses, I will commit to start a Grief Support group in my local community; with the intention to provide a space to make grief more bearable and help those to find [...]

906, 2021

Jennifer Sentz

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a survivor of spiritual abuse, it is my commitment to be a voice and resource for those who have experienced similar suffering. When grooming and abuse occurs at the hands of consecrated religious, victims can confuse the nature, characteristics, and attributes of the abuser with God's and the Church He established. By telling my story with a supporting curriculum, I hope to bring those still hurting back into a [...]

906, 2021

Rene Sanchez Meza

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is with God and myself. I would like to keep growing spiritually by reading more about my faith and catholic issues. The Tepeyac Leadership Initiative program has created in me a need for more knowledge of my faith as well as the way in which other issues are related to my faith. I will commit to read at least three books a year on topics related to [...]

906, 2021

Eric Salazar

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I work for RDF, a secular nonprofit with Catholic values. Learning from this intersection I want to take my experience working with secular nonprofits and expand RDF’s support of faith-based nonprofits nationally. Providing technical assistance, resource, business development and exploring investment opportunities for faith-based nonprofits thru the San Juan Diego Institute. I hope to maximize their impact and evangelization. Faith based nonprofits are on the frontlines of the increasing antagonism [...]

906, 2021

Elena Rodriguez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has taught me among many other things how much value we can add to our community and society if we get involved and raise our voices. Knowing that we have the tools to impact our community is priceless, especially when you are an immigrant. Our community needs prepared people that can bring back Catholic/Christian values to the public square. My commitment with TLI, myself and God is to continue [...]

906, 2021

Nate Raso

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to creating a council - possibly calling it the Concilium - my goal is to educate Catholic leaders and organizations on each other's duties/programs/outreach and create dialogue and communication, so that we can better facilitate working together. In a time in which Christendom is under attack we should be working together - financially and spiritually to enrich our faith. We need to unite in our causes and help [...]

906, 2021

Victoria Ramsay

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has reassured me there’s plenty of good people working as an army for God. I commit to being part of that army, specifically to defend the unborn. I intend to create a branch of my business named Transactions for Life, donating $1200 out of each transaction to support pro-life organizations and/or produce materials, both in Spanish and English, to bring awareness as to what abortion is and what abortion [...]

906, 2021

Mary Massell

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My experience with TLI has inspired me to commit to a work that serves the pro-life mission. Over the last fifteen years, I have witnessed firsthand how sharing basic biological and moral truths can open hearts and change lives. Our culture has lost the ability to have a rational discussion regarding the nature of the unborn. So many lives are destroyed based on misinformation or ignorance. For my commitment, I [...]

906, 2021

Karla Martinez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

TLI has been an incredible opportunity and next step in my leadership and faith journey. For my leadership commitment, I will focus on assisting the Diocesan Catholic Campaign for Human Development office in establishing and participating in an Advisory Committee that will propel the mission of CCHD forward in the Diocese of Phoenix. CCHD works to break the cycle of poverty by helping low-income people participate in decisions that affect [...]

906, 2021

Eric Mariscal

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My constant prayer on my leadership commitment, and discernment of where I can be the most effective, has brought me to apply for membership to the Diocese of Phoenix’s school board. My son has attended Catholic school for the past four years. I have witnessed firsthand some of the reasons why parents may give up. If accepted into the board, I will be obedient and committed to it. In any [...]

906, 2021

Veronica Lopez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Participating in TLI has reenforced my passion in service and helping others. Thus, I have decided to make a commitment to deepen my support to working with survivors of domestic violence. I have reached out to the managers at Chrysalis Domestic Violence Shelter. I am asking for the opportunity to work on providing strategies and solutions for both advocates and clients, based off the needs and urgencies that often arise [...]

906, 2021

Vanessa Jehling

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As a speech-language pathologist, sibling of a brother with a disability, and daughter of God, I am committed to lead others to the truth, beauty, and goodness of the Catholic Church. TLI has provided invaluable information and connections which have deepened my faith and desire to lead all souls to Heaven. With God’s grace, I am committed to leading as Assistant Director of Marketing through Young Catholic Professionals and assisting [...]

906, 2021

Nathaniel Hightower

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

After listening in to what many of my peers have proposed as reference points, my leadership commitment is going to be centered around reaffirming my faith in my everyday life and giving more of myself to various Catholic causes around the valley. I believe my free time can be put to better use by helping those who need it.

906, 2021

Christopher Gonzalez

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

As Catholics, we see our theology and teachings as a framework for our lives and the world, living and working as God intended. We are gifted certain talents and graces to go out into the world and act. I commit to using my talents and sharing these graces with others by building relationships with my local elected officials to connect, share, and serve when there is an opportunity. My commitment [...]

906, 2021

David Edwards

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I commit to spending at least four hours each week developing and implementing an array of services for Catholic men and their families who have suffered the impact of pornography addiction and other unwanted sexual behaviors. Milestones include within the next month, a men’s weekly therapy group, within the next year, a 3-day intensive workshop for sexual addictions, and within the next 3-5 years, the establishment of a Center, operating [...]

906, 2021

Chrysanthe Cupone

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

God has brought me to TLI. Although at first it seemed to be for my own spiritual growth, it’s clear now that my natural teaching abilities and leadership traits make me want to share the experience to help others learn and grow as well. Therefore, my commitment will manifest into two actions that I feel I can make an impact. First, I commit to pursuing the growth of TLI’s reach [...]

906, 2021

Gilbert Arvizu

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

My leadership commitment is to empower other Catholics in my community and workplace. I have learned through TLI the importance of Catholic leadership, and the Catholic values that are lacking in the social environment where we live, work, and play. This requires me to get to know my coworkers and community members better, an area where I have lacked, and to develop the personal relationships necessary to empower my fellow [...]

906, 2021

Juan Arvizu

By |June 9th, 2021|Categories: 2021 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

I have been blessed by participating in the TLI program. The level of expertise of most speakers is impressive. I hear most of my peers talking about getting into boards, districts, or political campaigns. I do not see myself scaling up those fields. I see myself going down to parishes and educating Catholics at the parish level. I have decided to commit myself to developing a program where parishioners can [...]

1102, 2021

A Sacramental View of Professionalism in Dress

By |February 11th, 2021|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

by Mari Price We have all heard the classic case for professional dress, right? It's a familiar suggestion that we take as bible truth, "dress for the job you want, not the job you have." Magazines, instagram, and blogs galore will flood you with fashion tips nauseating enough to make you want to tip the scale to the other side and reject it all. We might think [...]

3011, 2020

Work as a Service to Others

By |November 30th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

“We must be convinced therefore that work is a magnificent reality, and that it has been imposed on us as an inexorable law which, one way or another, binds everyone… It is an indispensable means which God has entrusted to us here on this earth. It is meant to fill out our days and make us sharers in God's creative power. It enables us to earn our living [...]

1611, 2020

A Daily Routine: Prayer in the Life of an Entrepreneur

By |November 16th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Having a daily prayer life is essential to strengthening one’s relationship with Jesus Christ and nurturing the body, mind, and soul. As Catholics and Christians, many of us have built prayer into our daily lives and rely on God heavily throughout each day. For others, it is difficult to begin a prayer routine and build it into a busy schedule or once begun, to stay consistent with it. [...]

3010, 2020

3 Unique and Powerful Things to Have in Your Spiritual Toolkit

By |October 30th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

As Catholics, we are blessed to have a plethora of prayers, reflections, meditations, spiritual readings, and so much more at our fingertips that nurture our faith and allow us to grow closer to Our Lord. While we strive to live our lives in the way God is calling us to, oftentimes we seek a deeper, more intricate prayer life and wisdom from the Holy Spirit that comes with [...]

2010, 2020

The Catholic Vote: Our Moral Obligations and What’s at Stake this Election

By |October 20th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

“As Catholics, we bring the richness of our faith to the public square. We draw from both faith and reason as we seek to affirm the dignity of the human person and the common good of all.” 1 There seems to be a lot of confusion in the Catholic Church surrounding the upcoming election. Priests and bishops are supporting both candidates, congregations are hearing mixed messages, and people [...]

3009, 2020

Prayers for Such a Time as This

By |September 30th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

A global pandemic, racial injustices, and an election year each on their own are enough to make anyone crazy. But this year brought us all of it. We’ve had to adapt to new ways of living and “being.” We’ve watched and experienced true devastation. Our faith and hope have been challenged in ways that we never thought possible or perhaps never expected in our lifetime…And the year isn’t [...]

1809, 2020

What Do Sales and the Gospel Have In Common?

By |September 18th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Disclaimer: This blog post is not about selling indulgences. “The Catholic Church does not now nor has it ever approved the sale of indulgences. This is to be distinguished from the undeniable fact that individual Catholics (perhaps the best known of them being the German Dominican Johann Tetzel [1465-1519]) did sell indulgences–but in doing so they acted contrary to explicit Church regulations. This practice is utterly opposed to the [...]

2708, 2020

Disciples in Training

By |August 27th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

This was the speech given by Denise Barajas, President of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Class of 2020 in California, at the graduation ceremony for the 2020 TLI cohort in California. ___ Good evening, everyone. I am honored to be named the first president of the Los Angeles TLI cohort. I want to take this time to thank Archbishop Gomez for welcoming TLI into our Archdiocese, Bishop Olmsted for [...]

608, 2020

We Are Called to be Servant Leaders

By |August 6th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

This was the speech given by George McNeely, President of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Class of 2019 in Arizona, at the graduation ceremony for the 2019 TLI cohort in Arizona. ___ Bishop Olmsted and distinguished guests, First and foremost, on behalf of the TLI Class of 2019, TLI Director Cristofer Pereyra, thank you for your courage and endurance. To paraphrase Alexandre Havard from his book, Virtuous Leadership, “Courage [...]

2007, 2020

Stillness: A Reflection

By |July 20th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership, Reflection|

In this moment of silence there is a stillness all around me. I can breathe in deeply while letting the crisp air fill my lungs. It’s peaceful, nice and quiet. Refreshing, to say the least. This moment. This silence. It goes from one minute to two to three and while breathing it in there is something else here. Movement. Movement in the stillness. But that movement doesn't come [...]

807, 2020

Catholic Leadership Amidst a “Paradigm Shock”

By |July 8th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

This was the speech given by Luke Kircher, President of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Class of 2020 in Arizona, at the graduation ceremony for the 2020 TLI cohort in Arizona. ___ In the tradition of TLI, I’d like to start how we begin all TLI gatherings – with our opening prayer… “O Mother, strengthen the faith of our brothers and sisters in the laity, so that in every [...]

707, 2020

Michael Sayegh

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Luis Sanchis

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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.

707, 2020

Isabel Sanchez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Bryan Ruiz

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jose Rodriguez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Catherine Rivadeneyra

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Stephanie Rebollar

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jesse Ramirez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Los Angeles, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Christopher Plance

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Ariana Perfecto

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

Hellen Keller stated, “Knowledge is power. Rather, knowledge is happiness, because to have knowledge – broad, deep knowledge – is to know true ends from false, and lofty things from low.” 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. I commit to serving on the TLI West Board for 2020-2021 [...]

707, 2020

Debby Ortega

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Stephanie Morales

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Austin McElrath

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Alexander Leparulo

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Sindy Hernandez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Brenda Lorena Garcia

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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. [...]

707, 2020

Alex Emanuel

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Melody Cruz

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jonalyn Bridgeman

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Kathryn Bodenhamer

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Denise Barajas

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Raquel Arce-Benitez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Ricardo Anguiano

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|

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. [...]

707, 2020

Cesar Verduzco

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Eileen Sullivan

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jorge Sandoval

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Mariana Rodriguez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Shelly Potter

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Gerardo Peña

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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. [...]

707, 2020

Refugio Payan

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Elizabeth Moore

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Fernando Marquez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Elvia Lish

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jason Kohl

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Luke Kircher

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Elva Hooker

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Maria Gonzalez

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Page Goetz

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Edmundo Garcia Fimbres

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Ana Gama

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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. [...]

707, 2020

Parker Fox

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Jose Luis Escobedo

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Juan Carlos Duran

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Monica Diaz

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

707, 2020

Alvaro Davila

By |July 7th, 2020|Categories: 2020 Cohort, 2020 Cohort - Phoenix, Leadership Commitments|

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 [...]

1506, 2020

Words of Gratitude

By |June 15th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

This was the speech given by Gustavo Estrella, President of the Tepeyac Leadership Initiative Class of 2018, at the graduation ceremony for the 2018 TLI cohort. ___ Thank God for our Bishop, Thomas Olmsted, for his visionary leadership and remarkable foresight in arming the people of the Diocese of Phoenix with faith-forming programs, such as TLI, in order to advance the mission of the Church. Your passion and [...]

206, 2020

An Opportunity to Respond with Love

By |June 2nd, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

No matter who you are, what you believe, or where you stand on the current events in our country, this time in history is a time we will all look back on and remember. What happened yesterday in Phoenix, Scottsdale, San Jose, Chicago, Tampa, and many other places is heartbreaking. This situation is hitting close to home for many people. For me, it’s knowing that some of my [...]

2905, 2020

The Feminine Genius

By |May 29th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

I was in my first semester of my freshman year at Arizona State University. As a Catholic who desired to continue living my faith in college, I hoped to find a community of people desiring the same thing. However, my shy personality combined with how overwhelming this new college experience was made me too scared to venture over to the Catholic Newman Center on campus. About a month [...]

1505, 2020

What is Leadership Anyway?

By |May 15th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

The Oxford dictionary offers three definitions for leadership: 1) the state or position of being a leader, 2) the ability to be a leader or the qualities a good leader should have, 3) a group of leaders of a particular organization, etc. In other words, the dictionary is of no help. It describes the destination but offers no map for the journey. I tried the RAE too; the definitions were [...]

3004, 2020

COVID-19: Crisis and Opportunity

By |April 30th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

It was Thursday, of the second week of March. I was in California facilitating the fifth session for the new Tepeyac Leadership Initiative (TLI) Los Angeles cohort. Things were going well! We had been hearing about the Coronavirus since late 2019. But this wasn’t the first time the public was made aware of the imminent danger of a virus from Asia. A state lockdown, an almost complete shutdown [...]

1604, 2020

A Thoughtful and Balanced Approach to Graduate School

By |April 16th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

In the summer of 2013 the Lord brought me to work at Grand Canyon University in their Strategic Educational Alliances department (now called K12 Educational Development). From the moment I began, my boss encouraged me to pursue a Masters degree. I was hesitant at first, but after much discussion with my family, friends and mentors in my life, I decided to move forward. I actually ended up earning [...]

1803, 2020

The Pandemic of Suffering Souls

By |March 18th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

I don’t know about you, but I’m a bit tired of hearing the word “coronavirus.” It seems to be all anyone is talking about right now. I do not say this to diminish the problem and I acknowledge that we do need to be concerned. It is unlike anything our world has seen for a long time. And we each have our own ways of dealing with it. [...]

1103, 2020

Called to be Faithful

By |March 11th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

The Oxford dictionary defines brainwashing as “pressurizing (someone) into adopting radically different beliefs by using systematic and often forcible means.” I looked it up, because recently someone who had been admitted to—and later decided to pass on—our Tepeyac Leadership Initiative program, provided the following explanation to me over email: “The more complicated part of the reason is that my wife was surprisingly unsupportive of my participation. Ultimately, she [...]

2102, 2020

Identity & Purpose

By |February 21st, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

I am convinced that one of the reasons our leadership program is so successful is because by God’s grace we have been able to help people in two fundamental areas where many a young professional seems to struggle today: identity and purpose. This is—to me—the most essential question in life: who are you? Of course, you have an answer, but I am looking for something deeper than your [...]

1102, 2020

Work is a Gift from God

By |February 11th, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

“Whatever you do, do from the heart, as for the Lord and not for others…” Colossians 3:23 Work is a blessing because it was ordained by God. It is a great gift to be able to get up each morning with a purpose and intent for the day, knowing that what we do will bring in support for ourselves and our families. There is also great opportunity in [...]

2301, 2020

More Professionalism in 2020

By |January 23rd, 2020|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

There are three things we need more of in today’s workplace: commitment, accountability, and simple professionalism. This 2020, I’ve decided to be more disciplined in each of the three. I hope these thoughts will inspire others to follow me. I believe these are basic rules all serious professionals should demand of themselves, independently of the field or industry they occupy. For Catholic professionals, observing them should also take [...]

1411, 2019

Please Don’t Mind my Objecting to Mindfulness

By |November 14th, 2019|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Today’s so-called progress tends to come in the form of new answers to very old questions. It also seems humanity sometimes seeks change for the sake of change, forsaking along the way the most zealously guarded treasures of its forefathers. That same humanity later makes inadequate attempts at rediscovering its lost treasures by giving them different forms, names or connotations, thus unnecessarily obscuring and even obstructing their true [...]

711, 2019

What I Call Dressed for Success

By |November 7th, 2019|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Back when I first entered the workforce, the slogan “dress for success” was still a popular phrase printed on business invitations. I am not sure how popular it is today. After all, in the era of workforce perks, flexibility and remote-work arrangements, we’ve all heard stories from Silicon Valley about the extravagance of going to work in shorts and sandals. But in my professional experience (which started in [...]

3110, 2019

Why Can’t We Be Friends?

By |October 31st, 2019|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Everyone has a desire to belong and it’s this desire that drives us to pursue friendships with the people in our lives. We were made for friendship and community, in our homes, in our workplaces, and elsewhere. For now, we will take a closer look at building friendships at work, which is so integral to our mission at Tepeyac Leadership Initiative. The American Time Use Survey found that employed [...]

2410, 2019

We Can’t All Be Theologians

By |October 24th, 2019|Categories: Catholic Leadership|

Undoubtedly, for some, getting a degree in theology is exactly what God wants. Some might be destined for the priesthood or religious life, but have not yet discovered it. They could definitely use the knowledge. There are also those, like Dr. Scott Hahn—made for academia—for whom advanced studies in theology are a must. Then, there are many other lay people who thrive as catechists, leading an apostolate or [...]

2307, 2019

Esperanza Hodgers, Kyrene Elementary School District

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Katrina Winn, Aid to Women Center

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: , |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Ryan Wiensch, Spectrum Graphics

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Reymundo Torres, Aramark – Arizona State University

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Eunice Sepulveda-Martinez, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Micki Schroeder, Trilinear HR Consulting and Business Solutions

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Erin Sarotte, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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, [...]

2307, 2019

Marco Porras, Mas Vale Saber

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Erika Peña, Catholic Charities Community Services

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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, [...]

2307, 2019

Melissa Moreno, City of Phoenix

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

2307, 2019

Jennifer Miraval, KSAZ Fox 10 News

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Jennifer Miranda, Americare Hospice and Palliative Care

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

George McNeely, State of Arizona

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Jaime Martinez, LPI

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Lorin Marchese, Grand Canyon Education

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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, [...]

2307, 2019

Miranda Maciel, Catholic Community Foundation

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Maria Lipp, Spotlight Media Services

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Irma Leyendecker, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Cecilia Lavallade, Diocese of Phoenix

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: , |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Lisa Johnston, StreamLine Accounting

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Larry Herrera, City of Tempe

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: , |

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.

2307, 2019

Monica Grijalva, DMMG

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Arturo Gonzalez, Ryley Carlock & Applewhite

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

2307, 2019

Sonia Galaviz, Remax New Hights

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Jimmy Flores, We Build Phoenix

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

2307, 2019

Bill Fathauer, Arizona Department of Transportation

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Christine DuPont, Relevant Radio

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2307, 2019

Carlos Caraveo, JPMorgan Chase

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

2307, 2019

Brandon Buck, Society of Saint Vincent de Paul

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

2307, 2019

Mar Bonilla, EBS Health Care – Littleton Elementary School

By |July 23rd, 2019|Categories: 2019 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

1107, 2018

Rafael Testai, EventKey Mobile App

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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. [...]

1107, 2018

David Tello, Raza Development Fund

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Jonathan Solorzano, Solorzano Law

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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, [...]

1107, 2018

Mari Seaberg, Americare Hospice and Palliative Care

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Aaron Smith, Arizona State University

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Scott Scharl, North & Co Real Estate

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Ryan Scharber, Hooper, Adams & Alexander, PLC

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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; [...]

1107, 2018

Adrian Ruiz, Raza Development Fund

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Brian Rosario, Seton Catholic Preparatory

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Juan Ramirez, Escamilla Law Group

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Nazario Prieto, City of Phoenix

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Angelica Perez, Arizona Department of Child Safety

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Bienvenido Morel, YRS New York

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Andres Martin, Maricopa County Environmental Services

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1107, 2018

Marisa Lopez, Arizona Public Service

By |July 11th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Claudia Lopez, Catholic Charities Community Services

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Andrew Lishko, May, Potenza, Baran & Gillespie

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Rafael Lavallade, Arizona Federal Credit Union

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Micaela Larkin, Arizona Legislature

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Alex Julian, Cicero Preparatory Academy

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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. 

2006, 2018

Dulce Hernandez, Catholic Charities Community Services

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Angela Heisel, University of Phoenix

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Pedro Gutierrez, Green Path Inc

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

2006, 2018

Gloria Guerra, Bilingual Insurance and HR Solutions

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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, [...]

2006, 2018

Gustavo Estrella, Davidson Belluso, Inc

By |June 20th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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. [...]

1906, 2018

Javier Espinoza, Remax New Heights Realty

By |June 19th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

“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 [...]

1906, 2018

Maria Escarceca, Child and Family Support Services

By |June 19th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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.

1906, 2018

Ricardo Contreras, Duran Accounting Solutions LLC

By |June 19th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1906, 2018

Norma Carrillo, The Society of St. Vincent de Paul

By |June 19th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

1906, 2018

Roxana Amaton, Chicanos Por La Causa

By |June 19th, 2018|Categories: 2018 Cohort, Leadership Commitments|Tags: |

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 [...]

COURSES

EVENTS

LATEST NEWS

TLI-Global-LogoLeadership for the World

Interested? Join our mailing list and we’ll keep you up-to-date.

    Go to Top