Our Council

The Father Marquette Catholic Academy Council is formed by the member parishes as a consultative body to assist the principal and pastors in overseeing the operation of the school. The council derives its authority and responsibility from the bishop and the pastors as his representatives. The bishop has final authority under Canon Law. All council actions are subject to the review and approval of the pastors and the bishop.

The Father Marquette Catholic Academy Council meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in the Bishops room of St. Peter Cathedral. We welcome all parents to attend.

  • Father Marquette Advisory Council By-Laws
  • Procedural Norms of School Advisory Councils and Community Relations Policy

2024–2025 Father Marquette Catholic Academy Council

  • Dr. Francis Darr
  • Fr. Greg Heikkala
  • Iris Katers
  • Fr. Tom Merkel - Pastor Designate
  • Fr. Dan Moll
  • Tyson Murphy
  • Fr. Brandon Oman
  • Melissa Pillifant
  • Dr. Amadeo Sturla
  • Miguel Valenzuela
  • Jennifer Vollenweider
  • Andy Ylkanen

2024–2025 Officers

Dr. Amadeo Sturla, Chairperson

2024–2025 Members

Catholic Identity Committee

  • Fr. Tom Merkel - Chair
  • Molly Johnston
  • Annalisa Ogle
  • Melissa Pillifant

Advancement Committee

  • Lacey Stensberg
  • Alex Gencheff
  • Rachel McKnight
  • Katie Michels
  • Sharon Parsons
  • Melissa Pillifant
  • Kendra Youren

Finance Committee

  • Jeff Gregorich
  • Fr. Tom Merkel
  • Nhan Nguyen
  • Kit Pillifant
  • Melissa Pillifant
  • Kay Rambo

Building and Grounds Committee

  • Jon Betz
  • Iris Katers
  • Melissa Pillifant
  • Mario Scibelli