Economics PhD graduate, Sister Alessandra Smerilli, has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV as Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development.

It is one of the most senior administrative offices, overseeing the Holy See’s work on issues such as justice and peace, social development, migration and the environment.

After serving as Secretary of the Dicastery since 2021, her appointment to Prefect makes her on of three women to lead a Vatican dicastery.

In an interview with Elise Allen, Pope Leo XIV declared his intention to promote more women into these leadership roles, following “in the footsteps of Francis,” former Head of the Catholic Church.

Sister Alessandra Smerilli’s appointment only reaffirms this sentiment, making this his second appointment of a female in a senior role, alongside Montse Alvarado to Prefect of the Dicastery for Communication.

Sister Alessandra Smerilli’s appointment was announced alongside Cardinal Fabio Baggio, Pro-Prefect with special responsibility for the Laudato si’ Higher Education Centre, and Monsignor Jozef Barlaš, Secretary, with all roles taking effect on September 1st , 2026.

Professor Robert Sugden, one of Sister Alessandra’s PhD Economics supervisors during her time at UEA, said: “she and I often meet at this group’s workshops and conferences.

“it’s great to hear that the Vatican has recognised her ability by appointing her to such a high office,

 “I’m proud to have had some role in her career and to have her as a friend.”

Image credit: Professor Robert Sugden. [Picture details: Pictured is Sister Alessandra Smerilli and Professor Robert Sugden at the Vatican in 2025]