NOVEMBER 21, 2017 

Oakland diocese names first layman to serve as chancellor

Bishop Michael Barber announces appointment of Stephen Wilcox, president of the nonprofit Wilcox Family Foundation, as chancellor effective November 16

Stephen Wilcox, president of the nonprofit Wilcox Family Foundation, has been named chancellor of the Diocese of Oakland.

As chancellor, Wilcox will oversee the offices of Catholic Youth Organization, Communications, Faith Formation and Evangelization and Mission Advancement, as well as the Diocesan Review Board and Archives.

Wilcox will also serve as Bishop Barber’s liaison to Catholic schools and Catholic Charities of the East Bay, serve on the Bishop’s Administrative Council and lead special projects as directed by Bishop Barber.

The latest special project Wilcox directed for the bishop was to serve as chair of the Founders Circle of Cristo Rey East Bay High School, which has become Cristo Rey De La Salle East Bay High School St. Elizabeth campus. The high school is set to open for the 2018-19 school year.

Previously, Wilcox volunteered to serve as interim CEO of Catholic Charities of the East Bay from September 2013 to May 2014. He had served on CCEB’s board since 2006 and as its chair since 2012.