New Oakland Catholic principal was on faculty of Murrysville, McKeesport schools

The new principal of Oakland Catholic High School has more than three decades of experience as an educator and has proven leadership skills, said Pittsburgh Catholic Bishop David Zubik.

Karen Kolenik will start the job on July 1.

“She is not only a strong academic leader, but also a faithful witness to the mission of the Church in forming young women for lives of leadership and service,” Zubik said in a statement.

Kolenik has the support of the Catholic high schools of the Diocese of Pittsburgh board of directors and was recommended by the Oakland Catholic High School board of directors.

She is vice principal of academic affairs at Central Catholic High School in Oakland, a role she has held since 2022. She previously was an assistant principal at Mother of Sorrows School in Murrysville and as a faculty member and coach at Serra Catholic High School in McKeesport.

She earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and a master’s of science in education administration from Duquesne University.

Oakland Catholic uses a principal/president model, with the principal handling day-to-day operations and the president in charge of fundraising, development and other financial matters.

Oakland Catholic President Kelly Lazarra called Kolenik’s appointment “a blessing.”

“She brings with her a strong belief in Catholic education and a wealth of experience that will benefit our entire community,” Lazarra said in a statement.

“This is a vibrant school with a proud tradition, and I look forward to partnering with the faculty, students and families to continue that legacy in faith and excellence,” Kolenik said in a statement.

Oakland Catholic, located in Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, serves girls in grades 9 through 12.