Very Rev. Jamin S. David, J.C.L., V.G. | Diocese of Baton Rouge

Bishop Michael G. Duca of Baton Rouge has appointed Dr. Cynthia Ryals as the new Assistant Superintendent of Catholic schools, effective July 1, 2024. Dr. Ryals will be taking over from Claire Willis, who has held the position for the past two years before moving to a role out of state.

In a joint statement, Bishop Duca and schools‘ superintendent Dr. Pattie Davis expressed their enthusiasm for Dr. Ryals' appointment, stating, "We are delighted Cindy is joining our system at the diocesan level. She brings over three decades of Catholic education experience to her new role. She is a perfect fit."

Dr. Ryals brings a wealth of experience to her new position, having served as the principal of St. Alphonsus Catholic School in Greenwell Springs for the past 15 years. Prior to her role as a principal, she dedicated twenty years to teaching elementary school students. Her academic achievements include a master’s degree in 2008 and a doctorate in 2014, both from Southeastern Louisiana University.

Furthermore, Dr. Ryals' expertise in school safety is highlighted by her doctoral dissertation on School Leaders’ Perceptions of Conducting Active Shooter Drills, which has led to her involvement in school safety consultation. She is an active member of the diocesan School Safety Committee and the author of Crisis Planning for Catholic School Leaders. Dr. Ryals has also been a speaker at various state and national conferences on school crisis planning and leadership, providing consultation to law enforcement groups for active shooter trainings.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Dr. Ryals is a devoted family woman, married to John Ryals, Jr., and a proud mother of two daughters, Katelynn and Sarah, who have followed in her footsteps as Catholic school teachers. The Ryals family are also active parishioners of St. Margaret Catholic Church in Albany, where they contribute to several ministries, including coordinating the Marriage Ministry.

Catholic schools within the Diocese of Baton Rouge span eight of the 12 civil parishes, catering to over 14,000 students.