Huether Uplifts Distinguished Lasallian Educators

Christopher Dean
Assistant Principal
De La Salle Collegiate High School
Warren, MI

A graduate of De La Salle Collegiate, Chris has served his alma mater for the past 20 years as a teacher, academic vice principal, disciplinarian and even as principal. Currently serving as the assistant principal responsible for academics, attendance, student affairs and discipline, the school president refers to him as an “administrative keystone” at De La Salle Collegiate. 

His principal notes, “Chris is never content with maintaining the status quo. Inclusion, equity and belonging have long been themes important to Chris, championing the expansion of student programs, community service endeavors and technological advancements, which have inspired our vision for the future.” 

Kelly Marin, Ph. D.
Interim Associate Provost
Manhattan College
Riverdale, NY

During her 16-year tenure, Kelly Marin has served the Manhattan College community in a multitude of roles, including professor, interim chairperson of the psychology department, faculty coordinator of educational effectiveness, Middle States co-chair and currently interim associate provost. In all of these roles, Kelly has embodied the characteristics of a true Lasallian educator by showing empathy, wisdom, honesty and humility.  

One of the hallmarks of Kelly’s career is her fight for social justice. Her qualitative research on adolescent development is informed by her deep concern for and desire to understand developmental struggles.  Her research agenda is directly reflective of her character; she never fails to reliably assist those in need. 

Michael J. Pare
English Teacher
La Salle Academy
Providence, RI

The spirit of Jesus is alive in Michael J. Pare. An alumnus of La Salle Academy (Providence), Mike has served his alma mater as a beloved English teacher and basketball coach for over 15 years. With fervent passion and zeal, he also enthusiastically serves as the moderator of the school literary magazine, frequently contributes to morning prayers, and consistently volunteers to accompany students on service trips. 

Coupled with being a man of deep faith, Mike is a joyful storyteller, noted for his self-deprecating humor, booming voice and warm smile. Whether in the classroom, on the court, or in our hallways, Mike spreads the Gospel of Jesus, imparting lessons of faith to anyone lucky enough to spend time in his presence.  

Mike Blanchette
Theology Department Chair
Montini Catholic High School
Lombard, IL

Mike Blanchette has the unique ability to translate the traditions of our Catholic faith and Lasallian spirituality into transformative curriculum with which today’s students can make relevant connections to their everyday experiences. He transformed Montini’s theology curriculum to be more student-centered, accessible, relevant and practical. That work culminated in the creation of new theology course electives, including philosophy, world religions, theology of the human person, expressions of faith and faith in media. Additionally, Mike has enhanced to our service learning program by adding trips to the El Otro Lado experience and to our Lasallian school in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The faith and spiritual educational experience for Montini students is one of excellence due to Mike’s efforts. 

Ann Merchlewitz, J.D.
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and University Secretary
Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Ann Merchlewitz, J.D., senior vice president, general counsel and university secretary at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota, excels as an educator, extending her influence beyond traditional classrooms. She serves as a dedicated mentor, guiding students academically and personally. Ann’s advocacy for students is unyielding, ensuring their rights and aspirations are upheld. She exemplifies excellence in knowing her students, supporting her student affairs staff and embodying the spirit of this award through her multifaceted roles in enhancing the educational experience for all students inside and out of the classroom. 

Leroy Baker
Theology Teacher
Archbishop Rummel High School
Metairie, LA

Leroy Baker is in his 24^th year at Archbishop Rummel High School in Metairie, Louisiana. In the 1980s, he served with Brother Joe Porter and Brother Don Everard, both of whom he credits with training him in the Lasallian traditions of faith, service and community. 

“Brother B,” as he is known to his fellow employees and students, is the driving force behind the Lasallian mission at Archbishop Rummel High School. There is no teacher on Archbishop Rummel’s campus who better embodies the teaching style and charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle than Leroy Baker. 

John Roberto
Consultant & Facilitator of the Lasallian Catholic Assessment Process
District of San Francisco New Orleans
Napa, CA

John Roberto is a teacher, writer, researcher and consultant who has developed resources in faith formation across generations. John was introduced to what is now the District of San Francisco New Orleans in the early 2000s with an invitation from the Brothers to support mission accountability. Decades later, John’s impact upon the infusion of the Lasallian mission across District schools through his leadership of the Lasallian Catholic Assessment Process cannot be overstated. Lasallian colleagues describe John as someone who is “an advocate for our mission and was willing to insist that the Lasallian schools and ministries with which he worked be held accountable to this incredibly valuable standard.”