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 six times per year at 6:30 p.m. in the Bishops room of St. Peter Cathedral. Please see the school calendar for the dates. We welcome all parents to attend.

2025–2026 Father Marquette Catholic Academy Council

  • Fr. Tom Merkel - Pastor Designate, St. Louis the King
  • Fr. Dan Moll - Pastor, St. Christopher 
  • Fr. Jose Cherian - Pastor, St. Michael
  • Fr. Brandon Oman - Pastor, St. Peter
  • Dr. Amadeo Sturla
  • Mr. Miguel Valenzuela
  • Mrs. Iris Katers
  • Mrs. Jennifer Vollenweider
  • Dr. Francis Darr
  • Mr. Andy Ylkanen
  • Mrs. Melissa Pillifant - Principal

2025–2026 Officers

  • Dr. Amadeo Sturla - Chairperson
  • Mr. Miguel Valenzuela - Assistant Chairperson

2025–2026 Members

Catholic Identity Committee

  • Fr. Tom Merkel
  • 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