Born Catherine Hernandez in south Phoenix to Robert Hernandez (Korean War veteran, construction worker) and Ysabel Santana Hernandez (aerospace worker). Earned BS from ASU and MA from NAU. Career educator who taught and administered in Roosevelt, Cartwright, and Washington school districts. Winner of the NHCSL John S. Martinez Award recognizing outstanding Hispanic legislative leadership.
CM
Serving
About
Family & Heritage
Born Catherine Hernandez in south Phoenix, Arizona. Father Robert Hernandez was a Korean War veteran who worked in construction. Mother Ysabel Santana Hernandez worked at AirResearch, an aerospace technology company, and passed away from breast cancer when Catherine was only 17. Grew up in a family of four sisters and one brother.
Political Career
Before Politics
Teacher and assistant principal with the Roosevelt School District. Administrator with the Washington and Cartwright School Districts. Governing Board member in the Roosevelt Elementary School District. Co-founded the Manzana Foundation in 2011 to prepare students for post-secondary education and support Dream Act students.
Education
B.A. in Elementary Education, Arizona State University, 2001; M.A. in Educational Leadership, Northern Arizona University, 2004
Key Issues & Priorities
Public education funding and STEM workforce development
Immigration reform and in-state tuition for immigrant graduates
Economic development in south Phoenix
Latino and Hispanic community advocacy
Small business support