Pope Leo makes history, appoints first woman to head Vatican ministry

Pope Leo XIV has appointed Maria Alvarado,a 39-year-old US media executive as the Dicastey for Communication making her first woman to head a Vatican ministry.

Maria will be overseeing the Vatican’s television, radio, print and press operations.

Her appointment was announced in June but she officially resumed office on October 31, 2026.

Alvarado who has previously served as the president and COO of EWTN News said she did not apply for the role and described the appointment as one from “the Holy Father”.

She succeeds Paolo Ruffini , the first layman to head a Vatican dicastery, serving from 2018 to October 31, 2026.

Maria is also the first non-Italian laywoman to hold the position.