Palmisano to Step Down as 

Superintendent of Catholic Schools

Dr. Melanie Palmisano, superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Diocese of Baton Rouge, announced she will be stepping down effective June 30, 2022.

She made the announcement in a letter that was released Dec. 8.  

Palmisano said she will begin service as a consultant and coach to schools through her company Inspir-Ed. 

“I’m honored to have been entrusted to serve schools in the diocese for more than a decade and reflect on all that we’ve accomplished with gratitude for the experience,” said Palmisano, who has served as superintendent for nearly 13 years. “I have been inspired by so many – clergy, colleagues, board members, administrators, teachers, parents, business partner and community members – and hope to share that inspiration with schools and district across the country.” 

She said she has “truly loved” her time serving schools in the diocese and she is looking forward to supporting Bishop Michael G. Duca in the transition to new leadership. 
“We are grateful to Dr. Mel for her dedication to the thousands of students who were educated in our school system during her many years as superintendent,” said Bishop Duca. “She has been a strong leader and skillful administrator, and we look forward to working with her in the coming months as we begin this transition.”  

More than 14,000 students attend approximately 30 Catholic schools located in nine of the 12 civil parishes that comprise the Diocese of Baton Rouge.

This is a developing story. Please refer to news.diobr.org for updates.