St. Augustine Catholic High School Announces Leadership Transition

TUCSON, Ariz. – After 15 years of dedicated service as President of St. Augustine Catholic High School, Dave Keller has announced he will step down from the role at the end of the calendar year to spend more time with his family. Keller will remain a valued part of the school community, continuing in a part-time capacity as Chief Budget Officer beginning in January 2026.

During his tenure, Keller led St. Augustine through a remarkable period of transformation and growth. His leadership was instrumental in strengthening the school’s academic programs, Catholic identity, and community partnerships.

“Serving in Catholic school leadership has been one of the greatest honors of my professional life, made possible by the support of my wife and the school communities I have served,” said Keller. “I am grateful to the school boards and our benefactors that have provided guidance, challenge, and steadfast support, and am most appreciative of the dedication and professionalism of our faculty and staff - they are the heart of St. A’s, providing countless ways to nurture, inspire, and uplift our students.”

Bishop Gerald Kicanas, apostolic administrator of the Diocese of Tucson, and the St. Augustine High School Board of Directors have announced that Melissa Lopez Gruenhagen will assume the role of President effective January 2, 2026. Lopez Gruenhagen currently serves as the Vice President of Operations and brings more than 16 years of experience in Catholic education and school leadership to her new position.

“St. Augustine High School has been truly blessed to have Mr. Keller’s vision and steadfast leadership as President for almost 15 years,” said Board Chair Richard Schaeffer. “As Dave chooses to work a little less and enjoy his family a little more, we are equally blessed to have him stay on in the role of Chief Budget Officer. Thank you, Dave, for your continued hard work and support of our school, mission, and community!”

“On behalf of the entire St. Augustine High School Board of Directors, we congratulate Melissa on her new role as President beginning next year. We look forward to her leadership as our school turns a new chapter of continued growth, success, and excellence.”

“I am deeply grateful to Mr. Keller for his extraordinary leadership and the foundation he has built over the past 15 years,” said Melissa Lopez Gruenhagen. “St. Augustine Catholic High School is thriving because of his vision and dedication. I look forward to working closely with our faculty, families, students, and the broader community to continue to strengthen our mission and ensure that all students are inspired, challenged, and prepared to achieve their full potential.”

St. Augustine Catholic High School remains committed to forming young people who recognize the dignity of every person, grow in faith, and engage meaningfully with their community.