Minnesota professor named ambassador to Vatican

Miguel Diaz
Miguel Diaz, a theologian and professor at St. John's University and the College of St. Benedict, has been nominated by President Obama to be ambassador to the Vatican.
Photo courtesy of St. John's University

President Obama has nominated a central Minnesota theology professor as the U.S. ambassador to the Vatican.

The White House announced the nomination of theologian Miguel Diaz Wednesday. If confirmed, Diaz would be the first Latino to serve as ambassador to the Vatican.

Diaz is a professor at the College of St. Benedict and St. John's University in central Minnesota.

MaryAnn Baenninger, president of the College of St. Benedict, says Diaz is a well-respected scholar and theologian who cares deeply about inclusiveness among Catholics, regardless of their background or ethnicity.

"So to have a perspective of real Catholics today, and their diversity, I think is extremely important for the envoy to the Holy See," said Baenninger.

Diaz also was an adviser to Obama's presidential campaign. In a statement, Diaz said if confirmed by the Senate, he wants to be a bridge between the U.S. and the Holy See.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.