Nancy Padberg, MBA, President & CEO, Publishes Inspiring Book on Building a Healthy Culture and High-Performance Teams

PHOENIX, Oct. 10, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Catholic Education Arizona is proud to announce that President and CEO Nancy Padberg, MBA, has released her debut book, How a CEO Built a Healthy Culture with Trust, Respect, and Avocados. This book demonstrates how leaders can build thriving, high-performance teams rooted in trust, respect, and value for one another.

Padberg, who has led Catholic Education Arizona as CEO since 2019, has been instrumental in strengthening the organization's mission of making Catholic education accessible to underserved families through scholarship funding. Under her leadership, the nonprofit achieved a 60% revenue growth in just five years and boasts a 95% employee retention rate.

"Leaders often underestimate the power of trust and respect in shaping organizational outcomes," Padberg said. "83% of employees experience workplace stress, and as a business leader, this is unacceptable. When organizations lead with trust and respect, they can achieve remarkable things while improving the lives of the people they serve."

Her new book combines personal experiences, leadership insights, and real-world examples to provide a practical guide for CEOs, managers, and aspiring leaders who want to create high-performance teams. 

"Nancy Padberg has hit a home run with her book How a CEO Built a Healthy Culture with Trust, Respect, and Avocados," shared Carol Trueg, Board Chair. "Nancy provides actionable steps for and engaging examples of building high-performing teams through trust, laughter, and valuing and celebrating each team member."

All proceeds from book sales will be donated to Catholic Education Arizona's Changing Lives with Legacy division, funding scholarships for underserved, disabled, and foster children. The nonprofit is excited to celebrate this milestone with Padberg, whose leadership not only shapes the organization but also inspires others in the community.

"I salute her leadership style, cultural focus, and results-driven approach," added Bryan Brady, former Chairman of the Board. "I am confident she will lead Catholic Education Arizona successfully through its next phase of development."

How a CEO Built a Healthy Culture with Trust, Respect, and Avocados  is now available for purchase on Amazon.

Contact: Debra Preach, Chief Operating Officer
Catholic Education Arizona
[email protected]
(602) 218-6542 

SOURCE Catholic Education Arizona