Welcoming Fr. Leo Edgerly as Vice President for Catholic Mission
Walking through the quad in early August, President J.D. Childs and Principal Doug Evans greet the newest leader to join the O’Dowd administration: Fr. Leo Edgerly.
Pastor of Corpus Christi Church in Piedmont and longtime friend and advocate of O’Dowd, this year Fr. Leo takes on a new role as Vice President for Catholic Mission. “O’Dowd has played an important role for many families in the Bay Area since it opened its doors in 1951,” shares Fr. Leo. “Each member of the community, whether a parent, teacher, or student, brings their gifts to enrich the lives of others.”
While remaining pastor of Corpus Christi, Fr. Leo brings his pastoral and strategic talents to support the Catholic culture and mission of O’Dowd. In his role, Father Leo will help us, as an institution, lean ever more fully into our Charism. “As a pastor for 27 years I am, at the heart, a teacher,” he reflects. “There is no better place for me to serve than here at O’Dowd.”
This year, Fr. Leo will be instrumental in supporting and strengthening our academic, spiritual and co-curricular programs, so that O’Dowd continues to empower our students to live out the Gospel values, on our campus and in the world. Additionally, he will support us in hiring for mission, equity initiatives, and school policies. “So many great things are happening at O’Dowd,” says Fr. Leo. “And I look forward to giving a fresh perspective to living out its mission.”
Father Leo’s professional achievements are impressive. He serves in leadership roles on the Diocesan Presbyteral Council and the College of Consultors, while also Chairing the Racial Justice Task Force. He also serves on O’Dowd’s Board of Regents and has been a frequent presence on campus for all-school Masses, events, and much more.
Well-known, well respected, and much beloved by many O'Dowd families, Fr. Leo is ready to serve the Dragon community.