The Fall Convocation 2024 commenced on Friday, November 8, at the DoubleTree Hotel in Plymouth Meeting, PA, where Lasallian leaders from across the District of Eastern North America (DENA) gathered. It began with an opening prayer and welcome remarks led by Brothers Bud Knight, FSC, and Robert Schaefer, FSC. The keynote presentation, “Building a High-Performance, Strategic, and Thriving Catholic School Advancement Program,” featured experts Jim McGibbon, Lincoln Snyder, and Kevin Quinn, who offered insights on building effective advancement programs to sustain and grow Lasallian institutions. This was followed by the first table discussion on donor development and fundraising, where participants engaged in focused discussions on strengthening support for Lasallian educational initiatives.
On Saturday, November 9, the day opened with a welcome and ministry update from Ben Ventresca of DENA, setting the stage for a day rich in leadership and formation discussions. Jim Logan from the District’s Office for Mission & Ministry provided an overview of this year’s formation and professional development offerings, spotlighting resources available to support Lasallian educators’ ongoing growth. A prayer service led by La Salle Academy students, accompanied by remarks from Maria Walker and Theresa Diamond, President and Principal of La Salle Academy in Philadelphia, further grounded the convocation in the Lasallian tradition.
Participants then engaged in the second table discussion, featuring topic-driven dialogues addressing governance challenges. Tom Southard, Executive Director of the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN), introduced RELAN’s core programs, emphasizing formation and professional development resources available across the region. This was followed by a presentation from Alan Weyland of Christian Brothers Services, who discussed essential services that support the mission and sustainability of Lasallian communities.
The afternoon continued with a third table discussion, led by Chris Fulco, President of St. Joseph’s Collegiate, focusing on case studies in Lasallian leadership. These conversations provided participants with practical examples and strategies for collaborative governance. A panel discussion facilitated by Justin Martineau from the Office for Mission & Ministry featured perspectives from Chief Administrators and Board Chairs, who addressed governance challenges and opportunities within DENA. To conclude, Ben Ventresca offered closing reflections, encapsulating the insights shared and reinforcing a collective commitment to the Lasallian mission.
This year’s Fall Convocation was thoughtfully designed to equip Lasallian leaders with innovative strategies, peer support, and mission-centered practices. Through collaborative sessions and expert-led discussions, participants left with actionable insights and renewed inspiration to strengthen governance and leadership within their own communities, aligned with the values and vision of the Lasallian tradition.
