Dream Team
"This book demonstrates that effective leaders are those who understand that a culture is built intentionally—through transparency, accountability, and genuine respect for others. The ‘avocados’ are more than a playful metaphor; they represent the nourishment, balance, and growth that a healthy workplace can provide when trust is at its foundation. Nancy has instilled that just as an avocado sustains and strengthens, so too does a culture rooted in trust, respect, and shared values.”
- Deb Preach, COO
“I left my former place of employment in a search for something ‘more’. At the time, I wasn't sure what ‘more’ meant, but I knew I needed it. Years later, I now know ‘more’ was trust, respect, and servant leadership. All the makings of a healthy culture.”
– Caitlin Wooten, VP, Finance and Compliance
“A healthy culture is the soil where people and performance grow; nurture it well.”
- Sandee Pusac, Director of Operations
“What Nancy has created at Catholic Education Arizona through a healthy culture is proof that mission-driven, servant leadership transforms an organization and, in turn, the people. Nancy prioritizes trust, respect, and value as critical components to a healthy culture and a safe work environment. Too often, leaders only provide ‘shiny things’ for their teams but overlook the foundation that people truly need. Nancy’s focus on safety and mission first has built a culture where laughter, unity, personal and professional growth, and extraordinary results naturally follow.”
– Dr. Miranda Maciel, Director of Development
“Contributing to a culture that embraces diversity of thought is important, as it leads to innovation and learning. I thrive when I am empowered to make decisions that impact the outcomes of my work and utilize my expertise in my areas of focus.”
– Pamela Gray, Director of Development
"Effective teamwork is like making guacamole, each ingredient has unique value, but only when combined with purpose do they create a result greater than the sum of their parts."
– Amanda Kolden, Finance Associate
“Culture isn’t built on cold brew and perks, it’s built on trust, respect, and the daily choice to value people over profit. When leaders lead with empathy, teams don’t just perform, they thrive."
– Anthony Navarrete, Tax Credit Business Manager
“Nancy’s approach to building a healthy culture is both practical and deeply human. Nancy demonstrates how trust isn’t built overnight, it is earned through consistent actions and transparency.”
– Sarah Kriwiel, Director of Development
“Nancy is a visionary leader. She plans for the future, while at the same time, she assists each individual on our team with professional and personal growth. Many chapters of my life have been shared with her these past seven years. I am blessed to have her wise counsel.”
– Colleen Will, Director of Parish Relations and Events
“Each of us works hard, focused on the same mission to serve others. Our Monday Momentum Meetings remind me we’re part of a team. I’ve read about great culture, but having a CEO who creates it every day makes this more than a job—it’s a place where you want to give your best.”
– Keli McCann, Director of Corporate Acquisition
“What I’ve discovered at Catholic Education Arizona is that leadership and culture don’t just give you space to use the talents you already have. Nancy challenges you to grow in ways you never thought possible. I may not be the best in every area when it comes to my job, but because of Nancy’s leadership and the culture she's built, I’ve been able to shine in my strengths and improve in areas I never imagined I could. That’s what a healthy company culture can do: it brings out the best in us, not just where we’re comfortable, but where we’re capable of more.”
– Joel Boucher, CFRE, Director of Development
“Nancy’s passion for Catholic Education Arizona’s mission, while implementing and maintaining a genuine, healthy culture, is truly inspiring. The way she leads, inspires, and communicates, while simultaneously emphasizing respect, trust, self-growth, and efficiency, is something that all those who work with the organization feel blessed for. It is with her values-driven determination and lead-by-example approach that makes Catholic Education Arizona continually successful. Her knowledge and implementation of a healthy culture make Catholic Education Arizona a truly remarkable place to work within.”
– Ashleigh Hansen, Executive Assistant