Chad Tuley: “I’ve been blessed to do something I truly love as a career.”
Scecina Memorial faculty, students, and Archdiocese of Indianapolis leaders gathered for a Mass during Catholic Schools Week to celebrate faith and honor an outstanding Scecina educator. Father Jim Farrell led the liturgy. Following Mass, Chad Tuley, Scecina’s Fine Arts Department Chair and Student Media Teacher, was recognized as one of five finalists for the Saint Mother Theodora Guerin Excellence in Education Award, selected from more than 2,000 candidates.
Dr. Dispenzieri, Assistant Superintendent Vince Aquila, Chad Tuley, and Assistant Superintendent Joe Hansen gather at Scecina during Catholic Schools Week. Tuley, a finalist for the Saint Mother Theodora Guerin Excellence in Education Award, was recognized for his dedication to education and faith.
Tuley has spent 15 years teaching student media productions, inspiring students to excel in journalism, video production, media, and photography. His development of the Red & Gold Show student-led news broadcast and leadership in student media programs have empowered students to find their voices and build confidence.
“I measure my success by what my students accomplish and how they grow over time,” Tuley said. “This award validates my efforts over the years, making me proud. It also humbles me as I think of the great teachers I’ve worked with, and I’m grateful to represent Scecina in this way. It takes all of us to do what we do every day.”
Tuley’s passion for education stems from his childhood experiences. He grew up in a split family, with one side of his family living middle class and the other struggling in poverty. Experiencing both sides of life helped him understand the true value of education from an early age.
His stepmother recognized his natural talent for teaching. Tuley enjoyed helping his younger brothers with their schoolwork, and she encouraged him to consider teaching as a career. At the time, he had plans to become a lawyer, unaware that her encouragement would turn out to be foretelling. Looking back, Tuley is grateful that her insight guided him toward his true calling.
Scecina junior media student John Ramirez-Hernandez shared his experience with Tuley’s impact on students.
“Mr. Tuley is an awesome teacher who helped me in my media class,” Ramirez-Hernandez said. “When I first arrived, he helped me become a more vocal and active person. I enjoy how helpful and nice he is toward all his students.”
President Joe Therber praised Tuley’s unwavering commitment to students and faith-based education.
“Chad Tuley is a faith-filled, dedicated, loyal, and humble teacher,” Therber said. “For years, the Scecina community has benefited from Chad’s commitment to our students.”
Principal Dr. Peg Dispenzieri recognized Tuley’s contributions inside and outside the classroom.
“Mr. Tuley is a compassionate, experienced teacher who genuinely cares for his students,” Dispenzieri said. “He always makes time to guide them, both in and out of the classroom. His work with the yearbook and the Red & Gold Show showcases student creativity and personal expression, creating lasting memories and keeping the community informed. We are truly blessed to have him as part of Scecina’s legacy.”
Beyond the classroom, Tuley fosters a sense of inclusion and faith among students by incorporating cultural celebrations and Catholic traditions into the Red & Gold Show. He values Scecina’s diversity and community spirit, believing students thrive when they feel seen and heard.
“I want students to know they have worth simply because they are,” Tuley said. “I’ve been blessed to do something I truly love as a career, so my advice to them is to discover their calling and pursue it. If they can make a living from it, that’s even better.”
The Saint Mother Theodora Guerin Excellence in Education Award honors exceptional Catholic school educators who demonstrate faith, leadership, and teaching excellence.
Tuley’s recognition highlights Scecina’s ongoing commitment to academic and spiritual formation, ensuring students are prepared to thrive in and beyond the classroom.
