It's that time of year again—graduation! First, congratulations to everyone in the Class of 2024 on the special journey you've shared over the past four years. The memories of the COVID pandemic are still fresh, but you have overcome all obstacles and thrived!

Looking back, it has also been an incredible adventure for the Center for Cultural Perspectives. Over the past two years, our programs have seen a surge in participation, with over 100 students engaging in our initiatives, seven faculty members leading outbound exchange trips to various destinations around the world, and nearly 60 families opening their homes to welcome students from Taiwan, France, Spain, Korea, and Argentina. Whether through reciprocal exchange programs, independent study abroad experiences, or participation in globally-focused courses through our partnership with PCC or in congressional simulations at the Harvard Model Congress, our students have undergone significant transformations.

Through these programs, we have all built deep connections with the places we visited, the people we met, and the new things we learned. We challenged ourselves to immerse in new cultures and communities, to open our minds to the unknown, and to find relevance with others who share this global society. There are many highlights of our journey together—learning stories of different Brothers from our Lasallian schools about their commitment to teaching, soaking in the grandeur of iconic landmarks and their histories, and finding commonalities through our diversity. One of the most profound moments was when we set foot inside the house where Saint John Baptist De La Salle was born and raised and stood at the city center of Reims, where the legacy of worldwide Lasallian schools began. The visit deepened our understanding of our founder’s story and vision, bringing us closer to him and enhancing our pride as Lasallians.

As we celebrate the success of the Class of 2024 and prepare to welcome our incoming Class of 2028 Lancers, the Center looks forward to another year of exploration, discovery, and growth. La Salle firmly believes in the true value of global education, and we cannot wait for more of you to join us. Together, let’s continue to build a stronger Lasallian community and a world that is more inclusive, empathetic, and unified across all cultures.

Lastly, a special shoutout to the Class of 2024 Lancers who participated in the Center’s program. Seniors, thank you for being the leaders of today and tomorrow. We hope you will carry your curiosity and aspirations with you during your future college years. Again, Congratulations on reaching this significant milestone and for the exciting new chapter that awaits you!