La Salle Academy Announces New Interim President

A lively interaction among students on the La Salle Academy campus.

News Summary

La Salle Academy in Providence has appointed Donald Kavanagh as Interim President following the retirement of Br. Dennis. Kavanagh, a former principal, will guide the academy during the search for a permanent leader. The Board of Trustees acknowledges Br. Dennis’s transformative contributions and emphasizes the importance of finding a successor who embodies the school’s values. The community looks forward to Kavanagh’s leadership while remaining committed to the academy’s high standards of education.

Providence, RI – La Salle Academy has announced a significant leadership change with the appointment of Donald Kavanagh as Interim President, effective July 1, 2025. This transition follows the retirement of the previous president, Br. Dennis, who has been recognized for his impactful contributions throughout his tenure.

The Board of Trustees of La Salle Academy has stated that Kavanagh will take the helm during this transitional period. His role will primarily involve guiding the academy while the search for a permanent successor to Br. Dennis is conducted. The board anticipates that this process will be completed by early 2026.

David Miele, the Chair of La Salle Academy’s Board of Trustees, has commended Br. Dennis for his transformative leadership and dedication to the school community. His retirement marks the end of an era, as he has played a crucial role in shaping the educational landscape of La Salle Academy.

Br. Dennis has expressed that his decision to retire is bittersweet, emphasizing the need to prioritize personal health. His leadership has been characterized by a commitment to fostering an inclusive and rigorous educational environment that aligns with the values of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the founder of the Christian Brothers.

La Salle Academy is a Catholic, independent, co-educational institution serving students in grades 6 through 12. The school is known for its dedication to providing rigorous education to a diverse group of students, promoting not only academic excellence but also a strong sense of community and service.

Background on Leadership Transition

The appointment of Donald Kavanagh is part of the academy’s broader transition plan following Br. Dennis’s retirement. Kavanagh previously held the position of principal at La Salle Academy prior to his retirement in 2023. His familiarity with the school’s values and goals makes him a suitable choice to lead during this crucial time. The Board of Trustees has expressed confidence in Kavanagh’s ability to uphold the institution’s mission and standard of education.

Community Response

The school community has reacted with support for both the retiring president and the new interim leader. Families, faculty members, and students have acknowledged the impact Br. Dennis has had on the academy, highlighting improvements in academic programs, student engagement, and community outreach initiatives during his tenure. Many in the community have also shared optimism for Kavanagh’s interim leadership, given his previous experience and understanding of the academy’s culture.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming months for La Salle Academy will involve a thorough search for a permanent president who can build on the foundation laid by Br. Dennis. The Board of Trustees has pledged to ensure that this process is inclusive, considering input from various stakeholders within the community. The aim is to find a leadership figure who can promote the core values of faith, service, and community that are central to La Salle Academy’s mission.

As the school embarks on this new chapter with Kavanagh at the helm and future leadership on the horizon, the commitment to providing a high-quality education that reflects the ideals of St. John Baptist de La Salle remains steadfast. The academy strives to adapt to the evolving educational landscape while nurturing the individual growth of each student.

In conclusion, the transition period at La Salle Academy under Donald Kavanagh’s interim presidency marks a significant moment for the institution. With ongoing support and guidance, the academy looks forward to upholding its standards of excellence during this leadership transition.