YOUNGSTOWN — The Boards of Directors of Catholic Charities Serving Portage and Stark Counties, and the Diocese of Youngstown Catholic Charities Corporation, announced the appointment of Rick Lee Squier to the position of executive director.

Squier succeeds George R. Garchar, who will retire in October after eight years as the agency’s executive director, and 22 total years of service to Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Youngstown.

Squier has served as the director of faith formation for St. Joan of Arc Parish in Streetsboro since 2014, where he was responsible for providing programming that exposes families and individuals to experiences that strengthen their relationship with Jesus Christ.

A graduate of Ursuline College in Pepper Pike, with a bachelor’s degree in religious studies, Squier also earned a Master of Arts degree in theological and pastoral studies from Ursuline College.

Squier is a lay ecclesial leader with a background in business management, retail program and process development, operations and logistic strategies, employment training, human resource management and talent development.

Squier resides with his wife, Colleen, in Ravenna. The Squiers are active members of St. Joan of Arc Parish, Streetsboro.

“I believe my unique gifts and personal experiences, as well as the will of the Holy Spirit, will guide me in my mission to serve Catholic Charities and the poor, oppressed and marginalized residents of Portage and Stark counties,” Squier said. “It is my firm belief that following a personal theology can lead a person to the place that best suits them. I recognize my responsibility in bringing the comforting embrace of Christ to those who suffer. We are each called to recognize those that go without, for acceptance of poverty in any of its forms is inconsistent with a faith in Jesus Christ.”

Ed Herman, president of the Board of Directors of Catholic Charities Serving Portage and Stark Counties said, “The board is excited to have Rick Squier serve as executive director. We are impressed with his dedication to serve those who are in need, his willingness to build relationships, and his vision for the future of Catholic Charities.”