Diocese of Baton Rouge Announces Leadership Transition in Catholic Schools Office

The Diocese of Baton Rouge announces that Dr. Mary Patricia “Pattie” Davis will conclude her tenure as Superintendent of Catholic Schools, a role she has held since June 2022, on 31 December 2025. Dr. Davis has led the diocesan Catholic Schools Office with vision and dedication, guiding our schools through a period of growth and renewal while remaining steadfast to the mission of Catholic education. We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Davis for her service and wish her every blessing in the next chapter of her journey.

Bishop Michael Duca has appointed Dr. Cindy Ryals as the next Superintendent of Catholic Schools, effective 01 January 2026. Dr. Ryals currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Schools and brings more than three decades of experience in Catholic education with her into this role. Prior to joining the diocesan leadership team, she served as principal of St. Alphonsus Catholic School in Greenwell Springs for 15 years and taught in Catholic elementary schools for 20 years. She holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Southeastern Louisiana University in Hammond and is widely recognized for her expertise in school safety and crisis planning. 

“Dr. Ryals is a proven leader whose deep faith and commitment to Catholic education will serve our students and families well,” said Bishop Duca. “Her experience and vision will help us continue to embrace the future while remaining rooted in our mission to evangelize hearts and educate minds.”

Dr. Ryals expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to serve: “It is an honor to continue the work of Catholic education in the Diocese of Baton Rouge. I look forward to partnering with our pastors, principals, and educators to ensure our schools remain vibrant communities of faith and learning.” The Diocese of Baton Rouge operates 30 Catholic schools across eight civil parishes, serving more than 14,000 students. 

For more information, please visit www.diobr.org.