Helias Catholic High School has hired a new president and principal, the Diocese of Jefferson City announced Friday.
John Knight, who has 32 years of experience in Catholic education, was hired as the new president, and Spencer Allen, current principal of St. Joseph Cathedral School, was hired as the new principal, effective July 1.
"Their experience, gifts and expertise will ensure that Helias Catholic has the right leadership to build on its tremendous legacy and fulfill its mission to build a community of saints and scholars for Christ," Bishop Shawn McKnight said in a news release from the diocese.
Knight, who was in formation with the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) at one time, has successfully served as president since 2007 in four religious and diocesan high schools in California, Michigan, New York and Wisconsin, according to the news release.
He holds a bachelor's degree in special education from the University of Toledo in Ohio, a master's in religious education from Loyola University in Chicago and a post-graduate degree as an education specialist from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan.
Allen has been principal of St. Joseph Cathedral School since 2007, where he has served in various leadership positions in the diocese, including chairman of the Diocesan School Advisory Council, member of self-study visitation teams and coordinator of numerous professional development sessions.
He holds a bachelor's and specialist degree in education as well as educational administration and leadership degrees from Lincoln University, according to the news release.
Knight and Allen will be replacing Kenya Fuemmeler, who currently serves as Helias president and principal, and will start her new job as principal at Boonville High School on July 1.