The University of Arizona College of Education celebrates alumna Karla Bernal Morales, a graduate of the Literacy, Learning and Leadership program, on her recent appointment as Chief Partnerships Officer at the Chamber of Southern Arizona. Morales was among the early graduates of the program in 2014 and has continued to build a distinguished career in leadership and community engagement across Southern Arizona.

Prior to joining the Chamber, Morales served as Vice President of the Southern Arizona Technology Council, where she helped strengthen connections between the region’s technology sector and community partners. She also currently serves on the Board of Governors for Pima Community College, contributing to the governance and future direction of one of the region’s largest educational institutions.

In recognition of her impact and leadership, Morales was recently honored as Woman of the Year by Greater Tucson Leadership during its Community Impact Awards. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply engaged in civic and educational initiatives, serving on advisory boards for several University of Arizona colleges and previously supporting the Tucson Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Morales’ journey—from returning to higher education as a nontraditional student to becoming a prominent community leader—reflects the power of education to transform lives and communities. The College of Education is proud to celebrate her achievements and the impact she continues to make across Southern Arizona.