The Superintendent of Schools for the Archdiocese of New York has appointed two new regional superintendents to lead Catholic schools in the Upper Counties and Manhattan school regions, respectively, following the upcoming retirement of Cathleen Cassel and Anthony Biscione at the end of this summer.

“We are deeply grateful for their faithful and generous service to our Catholic school families and for the leadership they have offered over many years in support of our shared mission,” said Sister Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D., Superintendent of Schools.

Effective August 1, 2025, David Ojeda and Michael P. Lenahan will assume leadership of their respective regions following a comprehensive and prayerful search process.

Ojeda, currently principal of St. Columbanus School in Cortlandt Manor, will oversee the Upper Counties, which includes 14 regional elementary schools, four parish/private elementary schools, and six parish-based early childhood programs. He brings over 25 years of experience in Catholic education, with a background in teaching, administration, and leadership. Ojeda is known for his collaborative leadership, strategic vision, and culturally responsive outreach, including initiatives to welcome and support Latino families.

“David’s career reflects a profound commitment to the Gospel, academic excellence, and the formation of young people in faith and virtue,” said Sister Mary Grace. “He brings heart, experience, and a profound sense of mission to his new role.”

Before his tenure at St. Columbanus, Ojeda served at Holy Family School in the Bronx as a teacher, administrative intern, and principal. He holds a Master of Science in School Administration and Supervision from Mercy College and a Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Albany.

Lenahan, currently principal of Transfiguration School in Manhattan, has been named regional superintendent for Manhattan, where he will lead six regional and 10 parish/private elementary schools. A seasoned educator with more than two decades of experience, Lenahan has led Transfiguration since 2018 and guided the school to its second National Blue Ribbon Award in 2023.

“Michael has fostered a strong Catholic identity while delivering academic rigor and innovation, even in a school community where many students come from non-Catholic backgrounds,” said Sister Mary Grace. He is recognized for his leadership across all areas of school operations, instructional excellence, and commitment to the spiritual and academic growth of every student.

Lenahan holds multiple advanced degrees, including a Master of Science in School Building Leadership from Manhattan College.

The announcement comes as the Archdiocese of New York joins the Catholic Church in the Jubilee Year of Hope, a time of reflection and spiritual renewal for the entire Catholic community.

“Hope is alive in our schools—in the hearts of our students, in the dedication of our teachers, and in the servant leadership of those entrusted with guiding our communities,” said Sister Mary Grace. “We give thanks to God for Mrs. Cassel and Mr. Biscione as they conclude their ministry with us, and we offer our prayers and full support to Mr. Ojeda and Mr. Lenahan as they begin this important new chapter.”