Grand Rapids Diocese Decides On New School Superintendent

Bishop David Walkowiak of Grand Rapids, Michigan, announced the appointment of Sarah Grey as the next superintendent of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids. She succeeds retiring David Faber, superintendent since 2015, who launched a successful reorganization of the diocesan schools. With four consecutive years of enrollment growth, Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids are in a strong position as this transition occurs.

Grey will begin her new position on July 1. She has twenty years of experience in Catholic school education, beginning as a middle school teacher at Guardian Angels Catholic School in Denver, Colorado, before becoming assistant principal at Annunciation Catholic School and principal at Assumption Catholic School there. She has served as assistant superintendent for Catholic schools in the Diocese of Grand Rapids since the fall of 2020.

“Sarah has dedicated her career to advancing Catholic education and I am confident that she will continue to make our Catholic schools places where students come to know, love and serve God, and grow in their Catholic faith, identity and mission,” said Bishop Walkowiak, according to a release.

“I look forward to building on the strong legacy established by Dave and working with Bishop Walkowiak to ensure our schools remain integrated in the evangelizing mission of the diocese,” said Grey, following her appointment. “Catholic schools are transformational, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead while supporting pastors, principals, teachers, students, and the greater Catholic community as we work together for the continued growth and pursuit of excellence in our Catholic schools,” she added. 

Grey will lead 31 Catholic elementary and secondary schools in the diocese. The superintendent assists educators in integrating the Catholic faith with the learning process and ensures excellence in Catholic school education by implementing strategic plans and policies. 

Grey grew up in Toledo, Ohio, where she attended Catholic schools from preschool through 12th grade. She received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Notre Dame with a major in anthropology and a minor in education schooling and society. Grey also has two master’s degrees from the University of Notre Dame, a Master of Education conferred through the University’s Alliance for Catholic Education program, and a Master in Educational Leadership through the highly-acclaimed Mary Ann Remick Leadership Program.