Scholarship History
Founded in 2014, Academic Opportunity of Arizona’s mission is to help close the gap in education access for children living with disabilities and experiencing financial insecurity. Offering multi-year, full-tuition scholarships through corporate and individual tax credit donations, AOA partners with statewide schools to provide thousands of students access to a comprehensive education. Since inception, AOA has raised nearly $20 million in scholarships to benefit more than 2,200 students.
Our Team
Chad BaysCo-Founder and CEO
As the Co-Founder and CEO of Academic Opportunity of Arizona (AOA), Chad Bays brings passion, commitment and determination to raise awareness for Arizona’s K-12 education and bring immediate impact to our under-served communities inside and outside the classroom. Entrepreneurial, curious and optimistic by nature, Chad is grounded with a deep sense of humor, perspective and constant drive for growth personally and professionally.
Chad attended Northern Arizona University (Go Jacks!) where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (Public Relations & Advertising). After spending over a decade in the “traditional” corporate worlds of real estate, insurance & finance. All, while witnessing his mother succumb to cancer at relatively early age (61), Chad knew there was more to life than the “Traditional” and has spent the last nine years on a mission to increase awareness and education for those students and families who need it most. |
Jessica Stuart Marketing and Development
As the Marketing and Development Director at Academic Opportunity of Arizona (AOA), Jessica leverages project management, nonprofit fundraising, and copywriting skills to create and execute marketing and development strategies that support the organization's mission of providing educational experiences to the developmentally disabled and low-income students. Jessica has been working with AOA since 2022 and is proud to be part of a team that is passionate about making a positive impact on the lives of our participants and partners.
Before joining AOA, Jessica spent 16 years as a high school teacher. She developed a Global Studies Program that enabled high school students to study abroad, enhance their global competence and cultural awareness. Jessica believes that educational experiences can change lives, and she is committed to creating and promoting opportunities that enrich the learning and development of students and families alike. |
Toni AbelsOperations
A true Arizona native, Toni Abels is an accomplished Operations Manager at Academic Opportunity of Arizona (AOA). Prior to her current role, Toni spent a decade as a Sales and Marketing Manager at U-Haul, where she represented the company with the utmost professionalism, personability, and care. A proud graduate of Arizona State University, Toni brings a deep understanding of the local community and a passion for excellence to her work. Specializing in initiatives aimed at enhancing user experience, understanding customer needs, and fostering lasting relationships; Toni effectively manages the daily operations of AOA to ensure its continued success and growth. Toni’s expertise, coupled with her strong work ethic and proactive approach, greatly enhances the team's capacity to achieve its goals and positively impact the community.
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Dana WeldonOperations
Dana Weldon, a native to Arizona, is a dedicated professional with a passion for education and community impact. After graduating from Arizona State University, Dana spent 12 years teaching elementary school in the Gilbert Unified District. During her tenure, she effectively communicated with parents and school administration, understanding the crucial role collaboration plays in student success. With a deep-rooted belief in the importance of education and a keen insight into the needs of children, Dana transitioned into the role of Operations Coordinator at Academic Opportunity of Arizona (AOA). Here, she excels in multitasking and forward planning, ensuring smooth operations for the organization's initiatives aimed at empowering students. Dana's dedication to learning and her adeptness at managing various responsibilities render her an indispensable member of the team.
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We're on a mission to provide life changing opportunities for children living with disabilities and low income hardship throughout Arizona |
