The Rev. Samuel Fontana, a priest of the Diocese of Lafayette, has completed his fifth and final year on the formation and academic faculty of Saint Joseph Seminary College. Fr. Sam most recently served as Dean of Students and was commencement speaker at the 2022 graduation ceremony.

Fr. Sam is a native of Abbeville, and was raised in Lafayette as a member of St. Pius X parish. He entered seminary formation at St. Joseph Seminary College in the fall of 2005, and following his sophomore year he transferred to the Catholic University of America through the Basselin Scholarship program. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philosophy in 2009 and a Licentiate in Philosophy in 2010. He went on to theological studies at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md., completing a Bachelor of Sacred Theology degree and a Master of Divinity degree. He was ordained to the priesthood at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist on June 21, 2014. He served as associate pastor of St. Joseph Church in Rayne before accepting a position on the faculty of St. Joseph Seminary College in July 2017.

Over his time at the seminary, Fr. Sam has taught core courses and electives in the philosophical curriculum, facilitated numerous formation seminars, coordinated and led mission immersion experiences, and served in many administrative roles, including Chair of the Philosophy and Theology Division and Dean of Students. In recognition of his service to the seminary, he was the recipient of the 2019 “Son of St. Ben” award. In addition to his work at the seminary, Fr. Sam serves as the chaplain and diocesan liaison of the Family Missions Company.