Father Judge High School names alumnus as next president

August 2, 2026 - 22:39

James Meredith, a 1992 graduate of Father Judge High School, is coming back to his alma mater as the school's next president. He will take over the role after spending the last three years as president of Lansdale Catholic High School. The appointment was announced this week by the school's board of trustees.

Meredith's connection to Father Judge runs deep. Beyond his own diploma, he has two brothers who also graduated from the school. He spent years working in Catholic education and advancement before moving into the top leadership role at Lansdale Catholic. His return is seen as a homecoming for a man who knows the school's culture and community well.

In a statement, Meredith said he is honored to lead a school that shaped him. He pointed to the importance of faith, brotherhood, and academic excellence as core values he plans to build on. He also thanked the Lansdale Catholic community for their support during his time there.

The current president, John McAniff, is stepping down after leading the school for several years. McAniff is credited with steering the school through the pandemic and overseeing recent facility upgrades. The transition will take effect this summer, giving Meredith time to work with McAniff on a smooth handoff.

Father Judge, a Roman Catholic boys' school in Northeast Philadelphia, enrolls about 900 students. The school has faced enrollment challenges common to many urban Catholic high schools, but officials say they are optimistic about the future under Meredith's leadership. He is expected to focus on enrollment growth, fundraising, and strengthening ties with local parishes and feeder schools.

Meredith's appointment comes at a time when many Catholic schools are rethinking their models. His experience at Lansdale Catholic, where he helped stabilize finances and boost student retention, is likely a key reason the board chose him. He will officially begin his new role on July 1.