Distinguished Lasallian Educators

Distinguished Lasallian Educators are not always teachers by profession.

What are Distinguished Lasallian Educators? Throughout the United States and Canada, Lasallian educational ministries recognize individuals for their exceptional work in touching the hearts and minds of their students, often leaving a lasting impression that makes a difference in the world. The significance of this award cannot be underestimated, for these individuals not only manifest but perpetuate the charism of St. John Baptist de La Salle in our contemporary world. As part of the worldwide Lasallian Network, Christian Brothers University takes pride in honoring our own Distinguished Lasallian Educators annually.

Eligibility: Lasallian educators are those who embody and represent a Lasallian spirit in and through the capacity they are employed at Christian Brothers University. They educate others through their words, actions, and service as faculty, staff, and administrators. They must have been a member of the CBU community for at least five years and recommended by their peers as being exemplary in advancing and bringing to life the Lasallian hallmarks that are part of the core identity of CBU.

*Beginning in 2021, CBU began recognizing two Lasallian educators: a faculty member, as well as a staff member or administrator.

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Deadline March 19, 2025

The Hallmarks of Distinguished Lasallian Educators

Quality Education

At Christian Brothers University, the art of education transcends the classroom. It reaches into the hallways, courtyards, library, athletic arena, residence halls, dining commons, and anywhere else students are found. Lasallian Educators have a knack for teaching in formal and informal ways, preparing students for their careers and – more importantly – for their lives.

Distinguished Lasallian Educators are about Excellence and Quality in Teaching, whether it be in or out of the classroom:

Examples:

  • Strives for excellence, accomplishment, and innovation in the service of students as an educator, teacher, mentor, coach, staff, or administrator
  • Promotes the highest virtues of education as holistic and transformative, especially for those who are most in need

Respect for all Persons

In our Catholic and Lasallian tradition, CBU acknowledges that all persons are made in the imago Dei, in the image and likeness of God. Lasallian Educators strive to make a difference in the lives of everyone they encounter, regardless of age, gender, race, ability, creed, or any other identity..

Distinguished Lasallian Educators demonstrate that their hearts and minds are committed to the Lasallian hallmark of Respect for all Persons.

Examples:

  • Honors and respects the dignity of all individuals, engaging with compassion, understanding, and love
  • Demonstrates a desire to work together in association with others by collaborating and connecting with folks from different walks of life

Faith in the Presence of God

St. John Baptist de La Salle and the early Christian Brothers would punctuate their academic day with the phrase, “Let us remember that we are in the Holy Presence of God.” This reminded both the educators and the students why their school existed. The Lasallian Educator acknowledges that the work done on our campus is inspired and sustained by a loving, provident God. 

Distinguished Lasallian Educators advance and bring to life the Lasallian hallmark of Faith in the Presence of God.

Examples:

  • Challenges students, staff, administrators, and faculty to examine our world in the light of faith, knowing we are graced with the presence of God each moment
  • Believes deeply in the living presence of God, both in our community and in our world

Inclusive Community

An inclusive community welcomes varied perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. The Lasallian Educator finds a place for everyone to share their authentic selves for the edification of the whole; they have a special gift for championing unity in the midst of diversity.

Distinguished Lasallian Educators advance and bring to life the Lasallian hallmark of Inclusive Community.

Examples:

  • Celebrates diversity and welcomes all members of our community
  • Assists others, lends a hand, goes the extra mile, and supports the best in others — a person whose actions show that caring and including matters

Concern for the Poor and Social Justice

“Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve” has been our Lasallian motto for a long time. An education is a powerful thing, and a Lasallian Educator knows that a life of service is one worth living. They inspire others to share their talents selflessly to build a better world.

Distinguished Lasallian Educators advance and bring to life the Lasallian hallmark of concern for the Poor and Social Justice.

Examples:

  • Exemplifies solidarity with the poor and marginalized, and advocates for those suffering from injustices
  • Shows noteworthy concern for and sensitivity to students and colleagues who are disadvantaged or ostracized by society