Dear De La Salle Institute Families and Alumni,
As the crisp air of fall settles in, I am delighted to share that the new school year is off to a terrific start here at De La Salle. This August, we proudly welcomed our first filled-to-capacity freshmen class, bringing our total student body to 750—a milestone that reflects the strength and vitality of our Lasallian community.
The summer months were full of exciting progress as we worked to further enhance the student experience. Among the many improvements completed on campus are:
- A new state-of-the-art Esports room
- A student services wing attached to our counseling offices to better support all students learning needs
- A fully renovated fitness center
- New doors at all four entrances and cosmetic upgrades throughout the building
- Two new marquee signs and expanded surveillance cameras to enhance safety
- A grotto in our courtyard featuring the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes, brought home from the vacated girls’ campus
- And, soon to arrive, a bronze statue of St. John Baptist de La Salle, which will be placed at the center of our courtyard to remind us daily of our mission and heritage.
School-wise, we are also off to a terrific start as we continue to deliver on the four cornerstones that are the pillars of a De La Salle education.
Spiritually
We celebrated the 125th anniversary of the canonization of St. Rita of Cascia and St. John Baptist de La Salle with a beautiful Mass. On that occasion, we were blessed to receive a powerful letter of encouragement from Pope Leo XIV, which I have attached for you to read and reflect on. We shared the day with Fr. Tom McCarthy, the St. Rita family, our Augustinian partners, and our Lasallian brothers—a true reminder of the strength of our Catholic community. We also continue to offer Wednesday morning Mass at 7:30 a.m. and a student-led prayer service on Fridays at 7:35 a.m.
Academically
Our students are thriving as we meet each and every one of them where they are. The Class of 2025 has truly left its mark on De La Salle, inspiring all of us with their determination, faith, and excellence. Together, these remarkable young men and women earned $9.4 million in merit- based college scholarships, a testament not only to their talent but also to their perseverance and commitment to learning. Along the way, 13 were honored as Illinois State Scholars, 9 distinguished themselves as AP Scholars, and the class achieved an extraordinary 72% pass rate on Advanced Placement exams- earning valuable college credits and surpassing the national average. These accomplishments are more than numbers- they represent dreams realized, doors opened, and futures bright with promise. The Class of 2025 has set a shining example for all who follow, and we celebrate them with gratitude, pride and hope for all that lies ahead. We celebrate our recent graduates who are now attending some of the top universities in the country, as well as those who have chosen to blaze their own paths as first responders, tradesmen, and more. Each success story is a testament to the strength of a De La Salle education.
Socially & Extracurricularly
Our building is alive each afternoon and evening. Our Student Center is filled with students on a daily basis enjoying a game of pool, ping pong or our new bubble hockey game. Students are deeply engaged in athletics, clubs, and service opportunities, filling our campus with energy and purpose long after the final school bell rings.
Communally
We have already walked alongside several families who have faced tragedies this year. In those moments, the true heart of the De La Salle family shines brightest, as we come together to lift one another up in faith, love, and support.
These first weeks of the school year have been filled with blessings, growth, and renewed purpose. I look forward to seeing you on our beautiful campus this fall as we continue to live out our Lasallian mission.
Go Meteors!
With gratitude and blessings,
