TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (July 21, 2026) – After more than three decades of dedicated service to Catholic education, including 27 years at Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools (GTACS), Superintendent Michael R. Buell has retired. Buell shared that his decision arose after prayerful discernment and was influenced by health considerations.

“Serving this community has been one of the greatest joys of my life,” said Buell. “I am deeply grateful for the faculty, staff, students, and families who have made this mission so meaningful. I move into this next chapter with trust in God’s providence and great hope for the future of our schools.”

During his tenure, Buell helped guide GTACS through significant academic, spiritual, and organizational growth. The schools have strengthened academic outcomes, expanded faith formation efforts, and strengthened their Catholic identity. He also highlighted the lasting impact of the Dominican Sisters of St. Cecilia, whose 2021 return has renewed the school’s Dominican heritage.

“Even in a world that can feel uncertain, our schools continue to be places where students encounter truth, goodness, and hope,” Buell said. “I have seen firsthand how Christ’s light shines through our faculty and staff every day.”

The Diocese of Gaylord has granted Buell Emeritus status in recognition of his service.

Leadership Transition and New Title
As part of a strategic leadership transition, GTACS will adopt the title of “President” for its chief executive role, aligning with common practice in Catholic school systems nationwide.

Rachael Milliman, previously Managing Director of Finance and Operations, has been appointed as the new President of GTACS. The selection was endorsed by Bishop Jeffrey Walsh and the pastors of the school’s five patron parishes.

“I am truly honored and grateful for the opportunity to serve as the next President of Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools and to follow the incredible leadership of Mike Buell,” Milliman said. “Mike has built an extraordinary foundation rooted in faith, academic excellence, and a deep commitment to our students and families. I look forward to working alongside our talented faculty and staff, our pastors, families, donors, and the entire GTACS community as we continue to strengthen Catholic education for generations to come. Together we will continue to grow every student in their relationship with Christ, challenge them to reach their God-given potential, and prepare them to witness and lead lives of faith, service, and joy.”

Milliman became Managing Director of Finance and Operations in 2024 after leadership roles in public accounting and private industry. She has played a key role in strengthening the school's financial stewardship, advancing operations and major projects, and helping lead the school's transformational capital improvement efforts. A graduate of Catholic schools and a longtime advocate for Catholic education, she and her husband, Brett, are parents of four children who attend GTACS.

“Rachael is a remarkable leader and faithful servant,” Buell said. “I step aside with complete confidence in her leadership and in the bright future ahead for our schools.”

Looking ahead, GTACS is entering a period of significant growth and renewal, with several major initiatives underway. In 2027, the school will celebrate its 150th anniversary, making it one of the oldest Catholic school systems in Michigan.

About Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools
With a rich history dating back to 1877, Grand Traverse Area Catholic Schools is a parochial school serving more than 1,000 students in preschool through 12th grade. It is a ministry of five Traverse City area parishes – Christ the King, Immaculate Conception, St. Francis, St. Joseph, and St. Patrick. As part of the Diocese of Gaylord, GTACS provides Catholic education that develops each child to their fullest spiritual and academic potential.