contact: Kathleen Hohl, 414-769-3494

Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan announced today that Brother Bob Smith, OFM Cap., has been named Director of Educational and Formational Services for the central offices of the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

This newly-created ministry area covers Catholic elementary and secondary schools, religious education programs, adult and family ministries, ministerial formation, and the Catholic Press Apostolate. One of the goals of this ministry area is to provide educational and formational opportunities for all members of the Catholic community of southeastern Wisconsin

Brother Bob will serve in a part-time capacity for the next twelve months while he fulfills his prior commitments to Messmer High School and Messmer Preparatory School, as well his province. Beginning July 1, 2005, Brother Bob will become a full-time member of our central office team. During this next year, Dave Prothero, who has played a key role in archdiocesan strategic planning over the last several months, will work closely with Brother Bob to ensure a smooth transition.

Brother Bob was appointed president of Messmer High School in 1997 after serving as the school's principal for ten years. He has been a member of the Order of Friars Minor-Capuchin since 1979 and is currently stationed at Saint Conrad's Friary in Milwaukee.

"I have asked Brother Bob to pay special attention to our Catholic schools as he moves in to this new role," said Archbishop Dolan. "A clear conclusion from our recent strategic planning process was that our people want strong Catholic schools, affordable, accessible, with clear Catholic identity, available to all. Brother Bob is the person to do this. He is recognized as a local and national leader on a variety of Catholic education issues and has been a dedicated leader in our community. I believe he will be a wonderful addition to our administrative staff."