Meet Ariana from St. Augustine Catholic High School

June 26, 2025

Meet Ariana Mata, who just completed her senior year at St. Augustine Catholic High School in Tucson. She has been receiving scholarships from the Arizona Leadership Foundation for the last eight years.

Ariana’s story:
As a Hispanic family with limited resources, we have faced our share of challenges, but my parents have always taught me the importance of perseverance, faith, and education. Despite working long hours and demanding jobs, they never stop working hard to provide for our family and support my dreams. We applied for the Arizona Leadership Foundation scholarship because we believe in the power of education to shape the future. This scholarship has opened doors we could not have imagined and helped ease the financial burden on my parents. Thanks to this scholarship, I was able to attend a school that aligns with our values and pushes me to grow academically.

I chose St. Augustine because of its strong emphasis on faith and commitment to academic excellence. This school’s dedication to nurture not just the mind but also the spirit resonated with me deeply, as I find education to be more than just academics. Education is about growing as a person, which is what drew me to this community. St Augustine has been a warm and inclusive place where students are encouraged to grow. St. Augustine truly feels like a second home to me.

At St. Augustine, I was involved in Mu Alpha Theta, the math honor society, a member of National Honors Society, a student ambassador and played volleyball. Outside of school, I like to hike, paint, and bake and participate in my youth group.

One thing that sets my family apart is our strong foundation in faith and service. Whether it’s volunteering at our parish or helping neighbors, we believe in making a positive impact whenever we can. I carry that same spirit as me at school, where I strive to lead by example and be someone who lifts others up.

In the fall, I will be attending Arizona State University to study Aeronautical Management Technology. I am passionate about pursuing a career to become a commercial airline pilot. I have always been fascinated by aviation and the ability to travel the world while connecting with new people.

“The Arizona Leadership Foundation scholarship has been a tremendous blessing for my family. It has given me access to an education that not only challenges me academically but also nurtures my faith and values. We are truly grateful for the opportunity it has provided.”

“It has been such a blessing to teach a driven student like Ariana. I always know that she is going to give her absolute best to anything that she does. She is the true embodiment of the kind of student we hope graduates from our school: a young woman who unapologetically leads with the beliefs she has developed from St. Augustine High School.” – Ms. Encinas, Theology Teacher.

About St. Augustine Catholic High School:

St. Augustine Catholic High School offers a dynamic blend of academic excellence and spiritual formation, rooted in Catholic values and designed to prepare students for success in college and beyond. With an average class size of just 15, students receive personalized attention in a supportive and engaging learning environment. The school challenges students with a rigorous curriculum that includes Dual Enrollment and Advanced Placement courses, allowing them to earn college credit while still in high school. For those who benefit from academic accommodation, the on-campus Learning Lab provides essential support tailored to individual needs. Beyond the classroom, St. Augustine boasts 13 competitive varsity sports, fostering teamwork, discipline, and physical development. The beautiful and secure campus enhances student life and creates a welcoming atmosphere. Faith is woven into every aspect of the student experience, encouraging spiritual growth through worship, dialogue, and service to others. St. Augustine Catholic High School remains committed to making a high-quality Catholic education accessible to families from all backgrounds.

For more information about the school, you can visit: staugustinehigh.com