Michael Deegan Appointed Deputy Superintendent of Schools

Posted

Michael J. Deegan, a longtime administrator and teacher in the archdiocesan school system, has been apppointed deputy superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese of New York.

Deegan formerly held the position of associate superintendent of schools for the urban education. His appointment to the new position was announced Sept. 20 by Dr. Timothy McNiff, superintendent of schools for the archdiocese.

“I look forward to continuing to work with our dedicated principals and committed teachers as we share our Catholic faith with the next generation of children and families, especially those most in need,” Deegan told CNY. “That is why we have Catholic schools.”

In an earlier statement, he said, “Throughout my career, I have always referred to myself as a Catholic school teacher, because I believe it is the most important ministry in the Church. I bring those skills and that enthusiasm with me to this exciting new position.”

In 2004, Cardinal Egan appointed Deegan as director of inner-city schools to help oversee the 122 elementary and secondary inner-city schools then serving more than 60,000 children.

He has served in Catholic education for more than 35 years, including as headmaster of Iona Grammar School in New Rochelle, and principal of St. Francis Xavier School and St. Jude School, both in Manhattan. He taught at Iona Grammar School, and at Power Memorial Academy and Sacred Heart School, both in Manhattan.

He is the recipient of numerous awards, including the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Compassionate Educator Award, the John J. Bruno Catholic Service Award and is the Brother Edmund Rice-Christian Brothers of North American Centenary Partner Honoree.

“Mike Deegan is one of the most dedicated and talented Catholic educators I have had the privilege of working with,” said Dr. McNiff. “I am pleased to recognize his outstanding skills with this appointment and to have his support as we work with our regional boards of trustees and our staff to strengthen Catholic education for future generations.”

Deegan has been married for 22 years to his wife, Angela, the principal of St. Francis Xavier School in the Bronx.