Bishop Edward J. Weisenburger | Diocese of Tucson website

The first graduating class of Catholic University-Tucson campus was celebrated during Mass on May 18 at St. Augustine Cathedral, followed by a brunch at the Downtown Pima Community College Campus. The four graduates – Maria Paula Celaya, Isabella Amelia Cordova-Minder, Cassandra Elysse Lopez, and Samantha J. Reynolds – had previously participated in the Catholic University of America commencement ceremonies on May 11 at the Washington, D.C., campus.

At the brunch event, students shared their educational experiences and professional plans with attendees. To support ongoing student outreach, the University has formed a local employer network aimed at helping students connect with local businesses and prepare for future employment.

“The program offers personalized attention from a prestigious university, with a curriculum that touches on all areas of life and education, not just business-related,” said Cordova-Minder, a 2024 graduate. “By the end of the program, you end up being a very well-rounded person. The opportunity to explore and express your Catholic faith in your college experience is something that the program offers and not something you see every day with other universities.”

Catholic University opened its Tucson satellite campus in fall 2020, offering an innovative B.A. in management program through its Metropolitan School of Professional Studies in partnership with Pima Community College (PCC).

“We are proud to have provided these students with a bachelor's degree that equips them with knowledge, skills, and opportunities, opening doors to a brighter future and a world of possibilities. In turn, they will be a light to the world,” said Keiran Roche, Assistant Dean at Catholic University-Tucson Campus.

Since 2020 and the revival of this affiliate model, the University has worked with more than 300 community members to customize the program for Tucson. Local supporters include Regina Romero, Mayor of Tucson; Edward J. Weisenburger JCL, Bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tucson; as well as key business and educational leaders.

To learn more about Catholic University's Tucson offerings and opportunities: https://www.catholic.edu/tucson/index.html.

The Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America is the national university of the Catholic Church and is unique as it was founded by U.S. bishops. Established in 1887 as a papally chartered graduate and research center, it comprises 12 schools and 31 research facilities and serves over 5,400 undergraduate and graduate students.