One Spirit, Many Gifts: Catholic University of America Tucson Begins a New Academic Year

By Ellen Fisher, Assistant Director

We at The Catholic University of America Tucson began the new academic year in joyful celebration with the Mass of the Holy Spirit, a beloved tradition that calls our community together to reflect on the gifts God has given each of us.

Presided over by Most Rev. Gerald F. Kicanas, Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tucson, the Mass brought students, faculty, and families together in prayer and gratitude. We were honored to welcome Dr. David P. Long, Dean of the School of Professional Studies, and Dr. Scott Rembold, Executive Vice President for University Advancement, who traveled from Washington, D.C., to join us in celebrating all that has been built here in Tucson.

Following the Mass, we gathered for a reception at the Tucson Convention Center, where more than 50 new students and their families joined continuing students and alumni to mark the start of the academic year.

The Scripture reading for the day - “There are different kinds of spiritual gifts but the same Spirit... To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit” (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) - reminded us that the Holy Spirit moves uniquely in each of us, yet unites us as one body in Christ.

Earlier in the week, we hosted an Employer Listening Session with members of Tucson’s business community, where we heard powerful stories of how our students’ gifts are making an impact across the city. Representatives from Paul Ash Management, the Catholic Foundation, Tucson Federal Credit Union, Mighty Dog Roofing, First Citizens Bank, Tu Casa AZ, HSL Asset Management, and HBL CPAs shared how CatholicU interns and graduates have become valued members of their organizations. Many shared examples of students who first connected with their company through our internship program and later accepted full-time positions.
We continue to see the gifts of the Holy Spirit alive in our students each day. Angelia led the university contingent for the Arizona Rosary Celebration in October, sharing her gift of faith and leadership. Enrique used his creativity and cultural pride to start Mariachi Colibrí, the campus’s first mariachi club. Taormina brought together a group of peers to begin a chapter of the Young Americans for Freedom, encouraging civic engagement and dialogue.  And Michael, through his strong work ethic and integrity, has already secured a full-time position beginning after his graduation in May 2026 - thanks to the impression he made during his internship.

Each of these stories reminds us that our students’ gifts are not just personal strengths—they are manifestations of the Spirit at work within our community. From the classroom to the workplace, from service to scholarship, we are one body, many parts, united by the same Spirit.

For more information about The Catholic University of America in Tucson, visit tucson.catholic.edu or contact Assistant Dean Keiran Roche at [email protected].