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A Letter From the President

from Loyola Magazine: Spring 2023

from Loyola Magazine: Spring 2023, page 24

Class Notes

DEAR LOYOLA FAMILY,

You are always on my mind. Whether your son is a freshman or a senior, whether you graduated in ’56 or ’99, whether you are a donor helping us fulfill our mission, you are all integral to Loyola and in my thoughts. That’s where the idea of the Alumni Issue came to be—the 16,000+ strong network that is Loyola’s bright lights throughout our city, country and the world.

We almost didn’t know where to start with this issue since we really do have a proverbial plethora of riches when it comes to alumni. Did you know that currently 37 alumni have returned to 1901 Venice Boulevard to give back? They are teachers, administrators, staff, counselors, coaches— sharing what they’ve learned and showing what it means to be a Cub to a new generation. Alumni are in many ways, helping us succeed.

Take for example Jamal Adams ’90 who will lead as Loyola’s new principal. The former director of our Department of Equity and Inclusion, he was also a Loyola faculty member and head basketball coach for 17 years. Most recently, Jamal served as the principal of LaSalle High School during the 2021 to 2023 academic years and will assume his new position at Loyola this summer.

Welcome back, Jamal; you’re home.

There is much in this issue that demonstrates what exciting and energizing times these are at Loyola. From William Jackson ’23’s thoughtful reflection on his Senior Service Project at the Catholic Worker to the groundbreaking French Academic Exchange Program to why Board member Rene LaVigne ’79 has endowed two scholarships at Loyola, we are at a wonderful crossroads as we move forward.

And did anyone mention the number 50? This was a big year for Interchange, celebrating half a century of raising funds for financial aid. Speaking of half a century, it was the Class of 1973’s 50th reunion, which happens to be my class. Two great weekends, full of Cubs on campus, remembering the past and looking forward to the future.

On another note, being a Jesuit and a lover of history, I was so inspired with America magazine’s story on the influence Jesuits had on the Dutch painter Vermeer, that I wanted to share it with you. Hopefully you’ll find it as fascinating as I.

This is Loyola today. Your school and my school. Here’s to its future as we chart its path together.

Yours in Christ,