Dr. Dynse Crunkleton honored with St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award

On February 18, 2023, Dr. Dynse Crunkleton was honored at the Diocese of Tucson Pastoral Center with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award for being a “true and steadfast Servant Leader.

The annual St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award honors someone who has demonstrated a history of dedicated service, support, and leadership within the Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools.

Dr. Dynse Crunkleton has supported Catholic Education in the Diocese of Tucson for many years. Throughout her children’s elementary years and continuing as an alumni parent of Our Mother of Sorrows (OMOS) Catholic School, Dynse has shared her medical expertise whenever it was needed. Dynse served on the OMOS School Board and presided over initiatives that helped bring nutritional awareness and benefits to the students. As a mom and a doctor, Dynse brings her unique approachability to teens and offers her time and medical talent to teach classes on sexuality to 8th graders. Her ongoing participation at the yearly OMOS Parish and School Fiesta has been essential as a co-MC, as a helper at the “desserts booth,” and of course with her medical presence, to be there at a moment’s notice, if needed.    

Dr. Dynse’s commitment to support and advance Catholic Education continues beyond her contribution at the elementary level. This is reflected in her valuable participation on the board of Salpointe Catholic High School.

In addition, her many years involved in and presiding over the Diocesan School Board present a wonderful example of a true Servant Leader. With Dynse's leadership, among other achievements, the Diocese School Board planned three successful Annual Endowment Dinner events, reviewed and refocused on its Mission and Vision, and strengthened its overall Strategic Plan. 

Even now, as her extended term on the Diocese School Board has ended, Dynse continues to be mindful of the well-being of the students of the Diocese of Tucson. She plans to continue helping by giving her time and medical talent to address the health and safety of all students, especially in mental health and suicide prevention.  

Dr. Crunkleton was nominated for the 2021 award, however, she respectfully requested that the principals receive the award for all of their hard work during the peak of the pandemic.

Sheri Dahl, Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Tucson, said, “A true and steadfast Servant Leader, Dr. Dynse Crunkleton is deserving of being honored with the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Award.”

The evening included Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel and a special blessing for Dr. Dynse Crunkleton. The “western” theme of the evening’s event saw attendees show up in their best cowboy and cowgirl getups, even Bishop Kicanas and Bishop Weisenburger joined in the dress-up fun. Sponsored by the Catholic Tuition Scholarship Organization (CTSO) and the Catholic Foundation, highlights included a western dinner, music, a photo booth, and some line dancing. 

Congratulations, Dr. Dynse Crunkleton, on your recognition and award, and thank you for all that you have contributed to the Diocese of Tucson Catholic Schools!