BUFFALO, NY, March 11, 2025 – The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo is delighted to announce the appointment of Joleen Dimitroff as the new superintendent of Catholic Elementary Schools.

Mrs. Dimitroff brings more than 35 years of expertise in educational leadership to this crucial role, with accomplishments in academic excellence, institutional growth, student support, and community building. Her appointment as superintendent begins full time June 2, 2025.

Rooted in our Catholic schools’ mission to teach, serve, and evangelize as we proclaim glory to God, Mrs. Dimitroff will lead efforts to ensure Catholic education is available to all families for generations to come. As superintendent, she will spearhead the implementation of the diocese’s new strategic plan, bringing leadership, and leveraging infrastructure and systems needed to fulfill this collective vision.

Mrs. Dimitroff’s extensive and varied career includes leadership positions as the current principal of Cardinal O’Hara High School, as well as serving as principal of Glendale Elementary, Sweet Home High School, and Akron Elementary. Her experience also encompasses roles as an educational consultant for Opportunities Collaborative and adjunct instructor in the Educational Leadership Program at Canisius University.

“For decades, we have been blessed by dedicated leaders, and we are grateful for the legacy of talented superintendents who have shaped Catholic education in unique and meaningful ways,” explained Bishop Michael Fisher. “I believe the Holy Spirit has truly led Joleen to us, as her commitment to innovative, inclusive, and faith-centered learning opportunities makes her an ideal leader for the diocese. Her intelligence, strength in relationship-building, and unbounding energy make her the perfect person for this role at this pivotal time.”

During her tenure as principal of Cardinal O’Hara High School, Mrs. Dimitroff demonstrated visionary leadership by fostering educational innovation, a culture of academic excellence, and holistic student development. Notably, she established New York State’s first inclusive Catholic high school program for students with intellectual disabilities. She also forged partnerships with Niagara University, Hilbert College, and SUNY Erie to implement dual enrollment courses, enriching academic offerings and fostering college readiness. Her experience also includes leading comprehensive school improvement initiatives, enhancing academic performance, and fostering a positive learning environment.

As principal of Glendale Elementary, Mrs. Dimitroff was instrumental in implementing FranklinCovey’s Leader in Me® program, transforming the school community’s culture by building trust, character, empathy, and leadership.

“I have known and worked with Joleen for over two decades, and she is a highly regarded leader in education,” said Robert Bennett, chancellor emeritus of the New York State Board of Regents. “During my time on the Board of Regents, we always looked to the school leaders throughout the state and her name was always at the top of the list. Joleen’s core beliefs that all children can learn, and families are critical partners, emerged as essential to her success. The Catholic Diocese is very fortunate to have a leader of schools that thoroughly understands the good news and proudly causes the school culture to reflect her example.”

A proud product of Catholic education from first grade through her graduate studies at Canisius University, Mrs. Dimitroff holds a profound appreciation for its impact on character and community. She is eager to galvanize our diocesan schools to work cohesively in cultivating future-ready disciplines of Christ.

“As a lifelong advocate for Catholic education, I am deeply honored to be chosen to serve as superintendent,” said Mrs. Dimitroff. “I am committed to working collaboratively with our schools and the diocese to further enhance our mission of providing exceptional academic and spiritual formation for all students.”

Mrs. Dimitroff is a parishioner of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Williamsville.

About the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo Elementary School Communities

The Catholic Diocese of Buffalo is committed to fostering Christ-centered communities for Western New York families, emphasizing academic excellence, character development, personal wellness, athletics and extra-curriculars, service opportunities, and faith formation. With more than 6,7000 students attending 30 schools across five Western New York counties, the Diocese is developing lifelong learners and disciples of Christ. Catholic Education…It’s everything you value!