By CatholicPhilly Staff Report • Posted August 20, 2026

The Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office of Catholic Education (OCE) announced Aug. 19 a leadership transition within its human resources department as longtime HR director James J. Molnar begins a phased move toward retirement.

Molnar, who has served as Human Resources Director for Secondary Schools and Schools of Special Education for more than 12 years, will transition to a part-time role effective Oct. 1. In his new position, he will focus on leadership development as a member of OCE’s senior staff.

During his tenure, Molnar helped strengthen recruiting and employee relations efforts, improved evaluation processes to support professional growth, and played a key role in launching OCE’s Rising Stars Leadership Academy, an initiative designed to identify and mentor future leaders within the local Church.

Also effective Oct. 1, Jessa Lodovici, SHRM-CP, currently a human resources manager for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, will begin onboarding to succeed Molnar as Human Resources Director for Secondary Schools and Schools of Special Education. She will work alongside Molnar during the transition period to ensure continuity of operations.

Lodovici brings nearly 11 years of service within the archdiocesan Human Resources Office and is a 2026 graduate of OCE’s Rising Stars Leadership Program. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University, an MBA from West Chester University, and professional certification from the Society for Human Resource Management.

In announcing the transition, OCE Chief Operating Officer Jay DeFruscio said the succession plan is intended to maintain operational efficiency and appropriate staffing levels while supporting the office’s ongoing mission of serving Catholic schools throughout the archdiocese.