May 2012 Volume Twenty-One Number 9
Dear Parents and Guardians, This is to be my last letter in The Belcroft as President of La Salle College High School. Let me begin by thanking you for entrusting your sons to La Salle. It has been my privilege to have served in this role these seven years. I hope that I have learned much and shared
Congratulations to the Classes of 2013, 2014 and 2015 who will all move up a grade with promotion this June. They have big shoes to fill and will have the privilege of working with their new Principal – Mr. Michael O’Toole ’68 and new President – Brother James Butler, FSC. I wish everyone only success as the future of La Salle unfolds.
The Class of 2012 leaves La Salle with 13 National Merit Finalists and 14 Commended Students – an achievement that clearly demonstrates our academic excellence. insight to lead La Salle into a strong future. Over the years, much has been accomplished and, yet, I sense much that needs a new hand to lead the school into its future. I will look fondly on the future days of La Salle and her students. Thank you for making these seven years among the best in my ministerial career. A special thanks to all who joined in making our Capital Campaign, Fulfilling the Promise, so successful! I want to salute the Senior Class of 2012. The accomplishments of this class will long set the bar for future classes. From the recognitions for academic, athletics, extracurricular and Fine Arts accomplishments this Class has proven itself both talented and humble. In addition, to date, they have captured five Philadelphia Catholic Championships, two Pennsylvania State titles, and awards in music, speech and debate and theatre. As of this writing the Class of 2012 will take with them over $25 million in college scholarships and grants.
I would be remiss if I did not express my appreciation to Mr. Marchese for the privilege of working with him during these seven years. Mr. Marchese has offered La Salle a wise and strong direction. Much of the success of La Salle over these years can be laid at the leadership he has provided. Join me in thanking Mr. Marchese and wishing him well in his retirement. I could only move onto West Catholic knowing that La Salle was in the hands of strong and experienced leaders. I wish both Brother James Butler and Mr. Michael O’Toole ’68 every success as they assume the leadership of LaSalle. It has been my privilege to have worked with both men in the past and know that they appreciate and understand the La Salle experience. Congratulations and best wishes to the Class of 2012. Sincerely yours,
Brother Richard Kestler, FSC ’60 President