The Elk County Catholic School System (ECCSS) is pleased to announce the appointment of Melinda Lanzel as its new Director of Marketing and Enrollment.
Lanzel currently serves as Assistant Principal at St. Marys Catholic Elementary School, where she has also held roles as Inclusion Coordinator and classroom teacher. Her professional journey reflects a deep and enduring commitment to Catholic education, service, and community, a commitment shaped by her lifelong connection to the Elk County Catholic School System.
A graduate of Elk County Catholic High School, Class of 1998, Lanzel is also a proud parent within the system. She and her husband, Aaron, have three sons who are graduates of or currently students at ECCSS schools. These experiences as an alumna, educator, administrator, and parent give her a unique and valuable perspective as she helps guide new families through the enrollment process and into the ECCSS community.
Over the past several years, Lanzel has also contributed her time and talents to the ECCSS Advancement Department, supporting a variety of projects that highlighted her creativity, communication strengths, and strategic thinking. These collaborative efforts helped identify her as a natural fit for this newly expanded leadership role.
In her new position, Lanzel will work directly with prospective and current families through every step of the enrollment journey, from initial inquiry and school tours to enrollment and the first day of school. She will focus on relationship-building, family engagement, and welcoming new families into the ECCSS school community.
“My experiences as an educator, administrator, alumna, and parent have given me a deep understanding of what makes Elk County Catholic special,” Lanzel said. “I am excited to help share our story, connect with our broader community, and welcome new families by supporting them throughout the enrollment process.”
“Melinda understands our schools from every angle,” said Ted Hanes, President of the Elk County Catholic School System. “Her deep relationships with families and her passion for Catholic education make her an ideal leader to guide families as they explore becoming part of the Elk County Catholic community.”
This leadership transition reflects the continued growth and strategic expansion of the Elk County Catholic School System’s outreach efforts. With Lanzel serving as Director of Marketing and Enrollment, Jessica Fritz, Director of Community Relations, and Franchesca Herzing, Director of Advancement, ECCSS is strengthening its ability to connect with families, donors, alumni, and the broader community. Together, this expanded team will support marketing initiatives, charitable giving, and an enhanced, concierge-style enrollment experience for
prospective families across the region.
Lanzel will begin her new role as Director of Marketing and Enrollment on February 6.
Families interested in learning more about enrollment opportunities or connecting with Melinda Lanzel may contact her at:
Melinda Lanzel
Director of Marketing and Enrollment
Elk County Catholic School System
Phone: 814-834-1480 x233
Email: lanzelm@eccss.org
