We were blessed to welcome a host of guest speakers for our event. Brother Ernest Miller, Director of the Adrien Nyel Project in Philadelphia, served as our keynote speaker. He enthusiastically stressed the importance of our Lasallian charism, our dedication to Catholic education, and the power of strong mentors and educators. At a panel presentation with four visiting Lasallian educators, Diahann Larson, recently retired after 30+ years at St. Michael's High School in Santa Fe, NM, stressed to us the importance of our Lasallian family and dedication to the mission. The Symposium wrapped up in Saint Charles for Mass as one united PNW Lasallian community. Father Rico Hernandez, who works for the Lasallian Brothers in Napa, CA, celebrated with us, challenging us to continue our dedication, and helped us commit to a life of prayer and love.
Combined staff from all three schools, La Salle Prep in Yakima, WA; La Salle Catholic College Prep in Milwaukie, OR; and DLSNC, celebrated and learned about our shared mission through three breakout sessions throughout the day. We first met with our counterparts from the other schools to network in order to build our programs. The second session was broken up by our years of formation, ranging from groups of new employees to those with 25 years or more in Lasallian schools. Lastly, we offered a closing breakout session based on fun and community building. For example, some people played volleyball in the gym, some had conversations rooted in social justice, and some prayed the rosary.
Here are some key takeaways from the day from my colleagues:
“How to educate in times of so much change and uncertainty.” Stephanie Valverde, Art Teacher
“Being able to meet others who have the same mission and seeing how this mission is central in more than one school is meaningful.” Alex Ontogtokh, Student Success Coordinator
“How much we need community, how it sustains us now more than ever.” Anne Warrington, English Department Chair
“The three schools are supporting each other in the mission of educating our students, making sure they feel seen, heard, and respected.” Nick Evans, Math Teacher
“I’m so glad to be in a school that has a charism. It’s a theme, a model that you hold onto through good times and bad times.” Kate Gobel, Donor Relations Manager
