School announces new hiring

Elyria Catholic High School names new director of philanthropy and engagement

Elyria Catholic High School announced Feb. 17 that Garen Distelhorst has accepted the director of philanthropy and engagement position at the school, according to a news release.

“Garen is a mission driven development professional who currently oversees alumni relations and planned giving at Saint Ignatius High School,” the release said. “He brings eight years of experience in fundraising, donor relations, event planning and prospect management.”

Distelhorst graduated from Saint Ignatius High School in 1996; from Miami University with a bachelor’s degree in health and sports organization in 2001; and has a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Administration and Leadership from Cleveland State University.

Additionally, he earned a Certified Association Executive designation from the American Society of Association Executives, a membership organization that promotes higher professional standards within the association and nonprofit community.

Distelhorst served as head coach for all three St. Ignatius lacrosse teams during his 12 years with the program.

Most recently, he has acted as the program’s director of lacrosse operations, the release said.

“Thank you to Annie Heidersbach (president of Elyria Catholic High School) and the search committee for the amazing opportunity to work on behalf of the students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members of Elyria Catholic High School,” said Distelhorst in the release. “I look forward to becoming part of the school I have heard so much about through the years from my wife, her family, and the many family and friends who attended EC.

“Elyria Catholic, with the support of the EC Advisory Council and Steering Committee, has a fantastic Strategic Plan in place. I cannot wait to begin working on the immediate goals and objectives.”

Distelhorst begins his position at Elyria Catholic on March 6.

Distelhorst