Dr. Kurt Schackmuth, vice president for student life and chief mission officer at Lewis University, has been selected as chair for the International Council for Lasallian Association and the Educational Mission (CIAMEL). Brother Superior General Armin Luistro, FSC, appointed Schackmuth to a three-year term, effective July 1, 2026 through May 14, 2029.
CIAMEL is a deliberative and collaborative body of Brothers and Partners representing the worldwide Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. It was established for the animation and direction of all existing and future educational programs that embody the Lasallian mission. CIAMEL collaborates with two other governing councils that advise the Superior General, the International Economic Council and the General Council.
In a letter announcing the appointment, Brother Armin wrote that Schackmuth’s “leadership will be pivotal as we continue to address membership pathways, establish new structures that are separate yet complementary to those of the Brothers, and empower our Lasallian Partners worldwide.”
“I am proud to congratulate Kurt on his appointment as CIAMEL Chair. Kurt has long been recognized as a thoughtful leader, a gifted formator, and a tireless advocate for the Lasallian educational mission. On behalf of the Region, we are grateful for his willingness to serve the Institute in this capacity, and we know he will strengthen our shared commitment to association and the educational mission entrusted to by the Founder,” said Dr. Tom Southard, executive director of Christian Brothers Conference.
For more than 25 years, Dr. Schackmuth has contributed extensively to the Midwest District, Region, and Institute, holding numerous leadership and service roles. These include membership on the Midwest District Ministry Council, chairing the Regional Lasallian Education Council, and serving as a formator in the Brother John Johnston Institute. He earned his doctorate in higher education from Loyola University Chicago, and holds both an MBA and a bachelor’s degree in history from Lewis University.