Friar Linh Hoang, a professor of religious studies at Siena College, actually went to the same school as the new Pope Leo XIV.

Hoang met the pope more than 25 years ago, telling our Zach Richter he was a quiet but friendly and warm person.

Hoang was just as shocked as everyone else was when they chose an American to become the next Pope.

He’s also an alumni of the same school as Pope Leo XIV – the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago.

Local priests and churchgoers were also thrilled about the conclave’s decision.

“I’m thrilled for many reasons,” said a local priest.

“It’s a wonderful thing. It’s a new beginning,” said one churchgoer in Schenectady.

Watch Zach Richter’s story above to see local reaction on the new pope from people in the Capital Region.