Claire Herquet, Editor

La Salle is experiencing exciting new developments, thanks to President Dan Allen.  

His strategic five-year plan, Ascend, has been aimed to focus on six pillars that will guide La Salle to be a leading Lasallian Catholic educational institution. The following pillars are believed to provide the foundation to lead the University and those involved in it to success from now to the far future. 

Pillar 1: “Deliver an exceptional teaching and learning experience built on quality and academic rigor.” 

This pillar establishes a comprehensive academic framework of goals rooted in Lasallian Catholic principles. It fosters a rigorous academic experience for students, enhancement of student support services, upgraded facilities and an increase of assessment mechanisms to continue its mission. 

Pillar 2: “Provide a transformational, holistic, mission-focused student experience.” 

The goals outlined in this pillar are to utilize career development opportunities into both curricular and co-curricular activities, prioritize educational programming on mental health awareness and resources and ensure that students are preparing for the challenges of living and working in a diverse democracy.   

Pillar 3: “Foster a culture of innovation and collaboration throughout the university.” 

A university-wide culture of collaboration offers value in the curriculum at La Salle. This general goal includes establishing an advisory council, streamlining program implementation and providing funds for grants.  

Pillar 4: “Build bold, sustainable international partnerships.” 

The goals written under this pillar focus on the importance of preparing students for global initiatives and experiences for academic excellence. Moreover, the outlined motives aim to design diverse exchange programs and extend collaborative research opportunities to foster an internationally inclusive community on campus. 

Pillar 5: “Integrate Lasallian formation opportunities throughout the campus community.” 

The goals outlined in this pillar are in regard to the Lasallian Catholic traditions celebrated within the university. This comprehensive plan involves creating orientation aligned with the university’s values, collaborating with other faith communities for intellectual enrichment, monitoring campus climate and engaging with local communities to aid specific issues such as health, education and technology. 

Pillar 6: “Chart a sustainable financial future.” 

These goals express a need for student recruitment, branding and fundraising. These strategies range from diversifying enrollment, improvement on market presence, securing funds and creating a vibrant, sustainable campus environment. 

The university’s recent recognition by U.S. News & World Report, particularly for value, social mobility and its undergraduate nursing program, is an outstanding reflection on its commitment to academic excellence. Campus improvements, such as the upcoming renovation of the Trumark Financial Center and the remodeling of the lasalle.edu site, underscore the university’s dedication to enhancing the student experience at 20^th and Olney. 

President Dan Allen expresses optimism for the future and looks forward to achieving further success, together as one.