Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh School Superintendent Michelle Peduto Announces Her Retirement

After nearly five years of leadership as Superintendent of Catholic Schools in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, Michelle Peduto has made the heartfelt decision to retire from her position effective June 30, 2024. This announcement, though bittersweet, reflects her desire to focus on her health and quality time with her family, as she continues treatment for metastatic breast cancer.

Peduto has a total of 21 years of service in Catholic Education in Pittsburgh, in various positions.

“Now is the time that I want to step back and do things with my family. From that standpoint, the prayers and support I’ve received have been so powerful, and so uplifting. I also want to express that I recognize the bravery of others who are going through the very same thing that I am. I know many others are,” she said. “With the love of God, we all live through life’s challenges to the best of our abilities. I honor and pray for those who wake up and do that every day.”

Throughout her tenure, Peduto has been a beacon of inspiration, steering our Catholic education system through the COVID pandemic, and regionalization efforts to address evolving needs. Her passion in supporting Bishop David Zubik’s vision for sustainable, affordable, and accessible Catholic education has left an enduring mark on diocesan school communities.

Peduto has also collaborated with Father Tom Burke on the Catholic Education Plus radio show to foster understanding and support for teachers and students facing real issues in our schools. Under her leadership, the Diocesan Education Office has undergone significant restructuring to bolster increased education and evangelization efforts among the faithful.

Bishop Zubik, recognizing Peduto’s contributions, shares, "Michelle supports our Catholic schools with unwavering commitment and dedication. Her creative, visionary approach has played a vital role in shaping the future of our schools. We are grateful for the impact she has had on Catholic education in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, and for who she is as a person, and the warmth she has brought to our diocesan family. Please join me in continued prayers for her in her retirement."

In the coming months, Peduto will gradually reduce her work schedule. She and her team remain excited to host the National Catholic Education Association Conference in Pittsburgh after Easter, and she is committed to actively participating in the search, hiring, and transition process for her successor.

“Working for the Church and being able to embrace the faith every single day personally and professionally has been an incredible blessing,” Peduto said. “I am grateful for the privilege of working, and building relationships with such wonderful people, including Bishop David Zubik. The hardest part of this is stepping back from that. God places people in our path to enrich our lives in ways we often do not recognize as it is happening. I am the beneficiary of the kindness and support of so many individuals. My gratitude is beyond words. I have seen that it’s the love that we give and the love we receive that is the Church.”

The diocese extends its deepest gratitude to Superintendent Peduto for her selfless service, dedication, and profound impact on Catholic education. We wish her a retirement filled with joy, family, and a heart filled with love and peace.