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YOUNGSTOWN – The Most Reverend Bishop David J. Bonnar has announced the appointment of Joanie Lewis as the first ever Director of Mission and Advancement in the Diocese of Youngstown. The appointment is effective April 2027.
Lewis, who grew up as a parishioner of Saint Jude Church (Saint Carlo Acutis Parish) in
Columbiana, has spent the previous 28 years as Appeals & Campaigns Account Executive for Our Sunday Visitor. There she worked to offer effective solutions in the areas of offertory, enhance offertory programs, consulted on the Diocesan Annual Appeal and church fundraising.
Lewis attended Holy Family School, is a graduate of Cardinal Mooney High School and studied Business Management at Youngstown State University. She is currently a member of Holy Family Parish in Poland.
Her duties will include all mission and advancement matters including increased offertory programs, capital campaigns, planned giving, oversight of the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown Foundation and cultivating a culture of giving with schools and parishes in the diocese.
Regarding the hiring, Bonnar said, "I believe that this hiring is critical to our future and Joanie is the right person for this position. I have no doubt that her exceptional skill set and vast experience will have a positive impact on this portion of the Lord's vineyard."
Lewis said, "I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Director of Mission and Advancement. I look forward to collaborating with parishes, schools, and diocesan ministries to strengthen their efforts, expand opportunities, and provide the resources needed to advance the mission of The Church in the Diocese of Youngstown."