YOUNGSTOWN — Bishop David J. Bonnar on Tuesday announced the appointment of Meagen Farrell as communications and social concerns director for the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown.

In the Office of Peace and Justice, Farrell replaces departing director, R.J. Mangan.

In addition to supervising diocesan multimedia productions, sh e will take on the responsibilities of supporting diocesan prison ministry and parish respect life initiatives.

Farrell becomes the diocesan contact for legislative advocacy, Catholic Relief Services and the Catholic Campaign for Human Development.

Farrell is working toward a doctorate of philosophy at Kent State University, researching the application of Catholic ethics to AI literacy. She previously earned a Master of Arts degree in theology and religious studies from John Carroll University with a focus on women in Christian ministry.

“My goal in this new role is to work closely with the efforts in our parishes and schools to nurture active and faithful citizenship,” Farrell said.

“I am honored and blessed to highlight local opportunities for social action on issues of human dignity and other principles of Catholic social teaching.”

Msgr. John Zuraw said, “Meagen’s ability to integrate our multimedia communications with social action will beautifully advance Bishop Bonnar’s vision of a unified, evangelizing church. I am confident that our priests, parishes and local media partners will find her to be an invaluable collaborator as we continue to share the story of our faith in action.”