Elyria Catholic High School is pleased to announce that Dr. Todd Sweda ’84, a distinguished alumnus and nationally respected Catholic education leader, will deliver the keynote address at the school’s 75th Commencement Ceremony.
Dr. Sweda currently serves on the leadership team for the Institute for the Transformation of Catholic Education at The Catholic University of America, where he engages in school accreditation and improvement processes, leadership formation programs, and research—all in support of Catholic schools nationwide. His decades-long commitment to Catholic education includes serving as the Superintendent of Catholic Schools for the Archdiocese of St. Louis and leadership roles in schools across Ohio and the country.
In addition to his national work, Dr. Sweda has remained deeply committed to Elyria Catholic. He co-chaired the school’s recent strategic planning committee, serves as an engaged Elyria Catholic Advisory Board member, chairs the Philanthropy and Engagement Committee, and was honored with the 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award.
“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Sweda back to the EC stage for this milestone year,” said Annie Heidersbach, President of Elyria Catholic. “As we celebrate our 75th graduating class, Todd’s personal journey from EC student to national leader in Catholic education is a powerful example of what it means to learn, worship, and serve with purpose.”
Dr. Sweda shared his appreciation for the invitation: “Returning to Elyria Catholic as the commencement speaker is both humbling and deeply meaningful. The foundation I received here — rooted in faith, academic rigor, and a sense of purpose — has guided my entire professional journey. I look forward to celebrating with the Class of 2025 and encouraging them to lead with courage, integrity, and faith.”
Dr. Sweda steps in following a scheduling change for previously announced speaker Alex Balazs ’89, Chief Technology Officer of Intuit. Elyria Catholic is grateful to Mr. Balazs for his continued support and looks forward to welcoming him to a future event.
The 75th Commencement Ceremony will be held on May 23 at 6:00 p.m.
For additional information or to arrange interviews, please contact Annie Cunningham at (440) 230.8617 or via email at annie.cunningham@elyriacatholic.com.
Annie Cunningham
Director of Communications & Marketing
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