The Heart of West Park to the Halls of SJA: Honoring Senior of the Year Cathy Lanning Knittel ’67
Saint Joseph Academy is proud to congratulate Catherine “Cathy” Lanning Knittel ’67, P'97, on being named the 2025 Ward 17 Senior of the Year by the City of Cleveland. This honor is a fitting tribute to a woman who has spent her life quietly and consistently shaping hearts, minds and communities through faith, compassion and tireless service.
Cathy’s story is deeply rooted in West Park and even more in Saint Joseph Academy. As a student, she first encountered the values of unifying love and leadership that would come to define her life. As a beloved Theology teacher for 36 years, she brought those same values to generations of students encouraging them to think deeply, act justly and live with purpose.
Beyond the walls of Saint Joseph Academy, Cathy’s influence has stretched across Northeast Ohio. As a founding member of Catholic Schools for Peace and Justice, she helped establish a network that empowers students across the Diocese to engage in service and advocacy rooted in Gospel values. Her leadership helped transform student-led service into a movement focused on systemic change and meaningful solidarity with others.
At the heart of Cathy’s legacy is her love for community. A lifelong West Park resident, she has called Southland Avenue home for nearly five decades. Neighbors, former students and friends know her as someone who remembers names, listens with care and always finds a way to give back.
Even in retirement, Cathy continues to live out the mission of the SJA, showing up for her community, her family and her faith with humility and heart. Whether writing, sewing or simply sharing a conversation on her front porch, she brings intentionality and grace to all she does.
It is an honor to celebrate this recognition with her and to say, on behalf of the entire Saint Joseph Academy community, thank you. Cathy, your life of love and service continues to inspire us all!
