Farno named chancellor of education for Archdiocese of Baltimore

Daily Record Staff//December 4, 2023//

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Gregory Farno joins the Archdiocese of Baltimore as its new chancellor of education from Truist Financial Corporation, where he served as the Maryland regional president until his retirement in September. (Photo courtesy of Archdiocese of Baltimore)

Archbishop of Baltimore William E. Lori Monday appointed Gregory A. Farno as chancellor of education for the Archdiocese of Baltimore school system.

The appointment comes after an extensive search following the retirement of Chancellor Emeritus James B. Sellinger in June 2022. Farno will assume his new role on Jan. 17, 2024. Dr. Donna Hargens will continue to serve as the superintendent of Catholic Schools for the archdiocese, a role she has held since 2018.

Farno joins the archdiocese from Truist Financial Corporation, where he served as the Maryland regional president until his retirement in September. As regional president, Farno led the commercial operations of Truist Financial Corporation. Prior to his tenure at Truist Financial, Farno held various positions at SunTrust Bank, including president, managing director and senior vice president.

A highly regarded figure within Baltimore’s business community, known for his involvement with philanthropic boards and committees throughout the region. His contributions have extended to organizations such as the B&O Railroad Museum, the Baltimore Area Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the Economic Alliance of Greater Baltimore, the Greater Baltimore Committee, the Living Classrooms Foundation, St. Ignatius Loyola Academy, St. Timothy’s School, Family and Children Services of Maryland, the Center for Urban Families and the Maryland Bankers Association.

Farno will become the second chancellor of education for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, a position established by Lori in 2014 to ensure the long-term sustainability of Catholic schools through enhanced operational efficiency and oversight.

As chancellor, Farno will oversee the business operations of the Catholic school system. His responsibilities will encompass strategic initiatives for the advancement of Catholic schools, including enrollment recruitment and retention, financial stability and the implementation of effective marketing and communication strategies. Furthermore, he will actively engage in fundraising endeavors, the development of local school boards and advocacy for public policy.