Catholic Diocese of Salina
The Diocese of Salina is pleased to announce the appointment of Curtis Hammeke as the new president of Hays Catholic Schools, encompassing Thomas More Prep-Marian and Holy Family Elementary.
Hammeke brings a wealth of leadership experience and a deep commitment to Catholic education, positioning him to advance the mission and vision of our schools.
A native of Great Bend, Hammeke has dedicated nearly three decades to Fort Hays State University. His journey began as a baseball student-athlete in the mid-1980s, followed by five years as head coach of the Tiger baseball team from 1991 to 1996. Hammeke has served as the director of athletics at FHSU since 2004. Under his leadership, the university's athletic programs have achieved significant success at the NCAA Division II level.
His tenure is marked by strategic planning, project management, and community engagement, reflecting his ability to lead complex organizations effectively.
In his new role, Hammeke will be responsible for providing visionary leadership, managing capital improvement projects, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders.
A key aspect of his leadership will include working closely with the Advancement Director to enhance fundraising efforts, strengthen donor relations, and expand outreach to alumni and community partners.
Additionally, Hammeke will collaborate closely with Holy Family Elementary Principal Mandy Meagher and Thomas More Prep-Marian Principal Chad Meitner to support the schools' academic excellence, Catholic identity, and student success. By fostering a unified vision across both schools, Hammeke, alongside the principals, will ensure a strong future for Hays Catholic Schools.
Hammeke and his wife, Annette, have three children - Fr. Andy, Alicia, and Nicholas - and are proud grandparents to five grandchildren: Emery, Kollins, Kolter, Turner, and Jack. The Hammekes are deeply rooted in the Catholic faith and the Hays community, and their family values reflect the mission of Hays Catholic Schools.
Bishop Gerald Vincke expressed his enthusiasm for Hammeke's appointment, stating, "Curtis Hammeke is a proven leader with a deep passion for the success of Catholic education. His experience, vision, and commitment to faith will be instrumental in shaping the future of Hays Catholic Schools. We are grateful for his willingness to serve, and we look forward to the positive impact he will have on our students, families, and the greater Catholic community."
"We are thrilled to welcome Curtis Hammeke to our Hays Catholic Schools family," said Geoff Andrews, superintendent of schools for the Salina Diocese. "His extensive experience and dedication to Catholic education make him an ideal leader to guide our schools toward a bright and prosperous future."
Hammeke shared, "I am humbled by this opportunity to work alongside our constituents, both internally and externally, in service of the mission of Hays Catholic Schools and the Catholic Diocese of Salina. It is truly a gift for all involved to have access to this Catholic education, prayerfully guided by the presence of the Holy Spirit. It will be an honor to work with those who have contributed to the development of this strong foundation, and with those who are committed to upholding this Christ-centered mission."
The Salina Diocese and Hays Catholic Schools are confident that under Mr. Hammeke's leadership, the schools will continue to thrive and uphold their commitment to academic excellence and spiritual development.