Class of 2021
Enoyaa Acheampong
Post-Secondary Destination: Ryerson University
Program: Industrial Engineering
Scholarships: Soccer and Entrance scholarship
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 8
Co-Curricular Activities: Soccer, Basketball, Track and Field, Figure skating.
Awards and Achievements: 2019 - 2020 Jr. Athletic Letter, Jr. Track and Field MVP
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
First, I was grateful to be a part of a community of individuals that share similar beliefs and values as I do. As well as participate in School Mass, which was a reminder for me to always remember to praise God and leave from for him.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
The most memorable moment at De La Salle was when I participated in my first ShareLife Day in support of raising money for our sister school in Naka, Nigeria.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
I believe that community is certainly important; hence, I plan to live out the call to "leave to serve" by giving back to the community, whether it is volunteering or donating, or charity.
Mitchell Bradbury
Post-Secondary Destination: University of Waterloo
Program: Honours Mathematics/Financial Analysis and Risk Management (Co-op)
Scholarships: University of Waterloo President's Scholarship
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 9
Co-Curricular Activities: - Senior Wind Ensemble- Debate Club Member- Math Peer Tutor- Senior Badminton- University of Calgary SHAD Fellow- Education For All Foundation Logistics Manager- Junior Badminton Coach- Competitive Badminton- Provincial Concert Pianist
Awards and Achievements:- 2018 CISAA Boys Doubles Champion- 2018 OFSAA Badminton Silver Medalist- 2019 CISAA Boys Doubles Champion- 2019 Level 10 Kiwanis Music Festival Gold Award Recipient- 2020 ARCT Kiwanis Music Festival Gold Award Recipient
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
A Catholic education taught me to be forward-thinking and self-reflective while showing me that results ultimately come from striving to be the most charitable, prudent, and faithful version of yourself. The standard of excellence and faith-based community fostered at De La Salle inspired me to work diligently towards my goals and aspirations. By the end of my time at De La Salle, I came to expect challenges in class, but I never doubted that I had an entire community behind me that was willing to help every step of the way.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
My most memorable moment from all my years at De La Salle would have to be the time when I had the opportunity to play the piano at the Lasallian Idol performance during my Grade 9 year. Although I had performed in front of people before, I had never played in front of such a big and lively crowd, and because of this, I was extremely nervous. It felt amazing to stand in front of the entire school and share my passion for music with the community. There is a lot of musical talent within De La Salle, and since then, I have always looked forward to Lasallian Idol and the iconic performances that come with it every year.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
The call to 'Leave to Serve' can be interpreted in many different ways, and each individual graduate will live out this lifelong mantra in their own unique style. For me in particular, I plan on living out the call to 'Leave to Serve' by dedicating myself to improving the communities and groups that I am fortunate enough to be a part of. Whether it be in a small study group or a university club, I want to be able to positively impact those around me and contribute towards a healthy atmosphere.
Isabella Coccimiglio
Post-Secondary Destination: University of British Columbia
Program: Bachelor of Science
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 5
Co-Curricular Activities: In school: STEM club (Grades 11 and 12), House leader (Brother Arthur), Debate team (Grades 9 and 10), Golf Development Team (Grades 8 and 10).
Awards and Achievements: Honour roll student throughout time at De La Salle - Music award in Grades 8, 9 and 10.
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
I benefitted from having a Catholic education at De La Salle primarily in regard to the growth of my consideration and compassion for others. By attending a school whose education was based on good example and charity, I learned that these qualities are the ones that will let you have meaningful interactions and lasting connections with those around you. Without charity and compassion, you cannot begin to sympathize with others and share in their stories which is such an integral part of growth as a person. Additionally, the strong moral grounding of De La Salle's education has taught me that it is not necessarily about where you end up but also about the method by which you got there. As such, honesty and integrity are qualities that I value a lot. While taking the easy way out might get you places faster, you will miss the lessons and meaning found in failure and frustration. Taking the harder, honest path will not only gift you valuable experience and wisdom, but will also help you achieve true excellence.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
The most memorable moment from my time at Del is the first time I was a house leader for Brother Arthur at Terry Fox Day in 2019. I was standing at the front of the auditorium, encouraging some young students to participate in our house chants. As I spoke to them, I looked out at the sea of students who flooded the auditorium. There were hundreds of students between ages 10 and 18 who were wearing all sorts of face paint and accessories. Even some teachers dressed up! Each individual had come to congregate in one place to recognize and commemorate the impact of one man. While the silly costumes were only for fun, they demonstrated the immense amount of school spirit found in this community. The fact that students and teachers alike could come together of their own will to raise awareness about something so important shows how much community is treasured at Del - each member equally contributes to the well-functioning and meaningful nature of the school environment.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
For as long as I have attended the College, I have heard the saying, "Enter to learn, leave to serve." I think that Del has helped me to learn and prepare as much as I can for the coming years; I have gained discipline and moral intelligence, which will stay with me throughout my adult years. As I conclude my time at Del, I look forward to a future filled with knowledge and service to my community. I am excited to learn more about this world and ways to help those within it. I think that this is the best way for me to serve as I can give back to those who helped me along my journey through childhood while fulfilling my moral duty to assist others. I look forward to being an active member in every community that I am a part of, as Del taught me that the more you put into an experience or opportunity, the more you will get out of it.
Amelia D'Alessandro
Post-Secondary Destination: Ryerson University
Program: Graphic Communications Management
Scholarships: Entrance Scholarship (general), CPISTF Entrance Award Offer
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 7
Co-Curricular Activities: Golf Club, Yearbook, Newspaper, Photography, Lasallian Youth, Link Crew
Awards and Achievements: Grade 8 Merit Award, ASM4M Certificate of Distinction
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
By being immersed in Catholic education for the past six years, I have been able to understand the proper way of living with Christ present in my life. De La Salle's education has encouraged me to be a better person by giving me the tools to prosper in the school environment as well as outside of school.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
Photographing the Brother Arthur Tournament in 2019. The atmosphere in the arena was unmatched, full of school spirit and the whole student body cheering on the De La Salle hockey team. As well, the hockey team played remarkably against all the opposing teams, allowing me to snap some very creative photos of the games.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
De La Salle has given me many rewarding opportunities to volunteer and serve in the community, and I will continue to use the skills that I have acquired to volunteer in my own community and throughout life.
Giulia Di Fonzo
Post-Secondary Destination: McGill University
Program: Bachelor of Arts and Science
Scholarships: Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 9
Co-Curricular Activities: Girls volleyball team, Girls basketball team, Ultimate frisbee team, Peer tutor, Eco team lead, Yearbook club/ art director of the yearbook, Meagan's Walk, Link Crew, House Leaders
Awards and Achievements: Junior Athletic LetterSenior Athletic LetterSubject Award - Grade 11 media arts
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
A school environment centred around charity, excellence, and good example taught me the importance of being a role model for students in younger grades. De La Salle's constant support and encouragement pushed me outside of my comfort zone while providing me with the necessary foundational skills for the educational, social, athletic and religious aspects of my life. This Catholic education focused on a good environment of faith showed me how acting as a Good Samaritan towards others allows for spiritual and personal growth. The education provided at De La Salle has successfully prepared me for any future endeavour.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
The most memorable moments at De La Salle came from my time spent on several sports teams. Although there are many, one of the most important memories as a Del student was the annual teachers vs. students ultimate frisbee game. The sense of comradery between students made me realize that inclusivity, teamwork and understanding are key values to the Del community's successes. Playing against my teachers gave me the necessary confidence and communication to work with others in developing effective strategies.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
As I conclude my time at the College, I plan to live out the call to our graduates to "Leave to Serve" by participating in several clubs, intramural sports and volunteer experiences throughout university. As a graduating Del student, these wise words have encouraged me to seize every opportunity, which I will continue to do. From volunteering on the university campus to starting a new club, my future directions will always be founded on my desire to serve others. Although my career path is not certain, I know that it will centre around De La Salle's motto of "Leave to Serve." Whether that be through working for a non-profit or environmental organization, I will put my community first.
Matthew Heal-Kowal
Post-Secondary Destination: University of Michigan
Program: Engineering
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 7
Co-Curricular Activities: Co-President of STEM ClubCo-Chair of Toronto Youth Stem and Innovation Conference, Senior and Junior Soccer, Senior and Junior Basketball, DECA, Peer Tutoring
Awards and Achievements: DECA Provincial Medal, DECA Regional Medal (Marketing), University of Waterloo Math Contest School Champion, Junior School Athlete of the Year
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
De La Salle's Catholic education has taught me many of the rewarding elements of the Catholic faith. One of these elements I've grown to appreciate is the importance of a strong conscience, something Del places great emphasis on developing throughout a student's education. I've benefitted greatly from developing this conscience, and it will help me in the many tough situations I will face in the future.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
I will always fondly remember Del's morning assemblies from the pre-COVID era. One of my favourite things about De La Salle is its strong sense of community, and gathering the entire school every morning to reflect and celebrate together is something I will never forget.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
My participation in the Lasallian community for the past six years has instilled in me the value of caring for others, both within the school and more broadly in the world. Every year Del runs various charitable events that I've had the opportunity to help coordinate or participate in, including fundraisers for our Nigerian sister school on ShareLife Day, the Out of the Cold fundraiser, and our food drive. As I move forward, I will seek out opportunities at university to engage with similar charitable programs to help benefit the school community and the city at large. That being said, participating in charitable initiatives does not fully encompass living out the call of "Leave to Serve," and as such, I will always look for small ways to serve my community, whether it be by lending a helping hand or through simple gestures of goodwill to those around me.
Victor Andrei Lambert
Post-Secondary Destination: University of Oxford
Program: Theology and Religion
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 10
Co-Curricular Activities: French and Math tutor, Oakleaves contributor, Discipleship Club, Ski team, Badminton team, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Band
Awards and Achievements: French subject award in grade eleven and Grade 12, Math subject award in Grade 11, Literature subject award Grade 12. AP exams: French, Calculus, English, Waterloo math contest distinction award, Royal Conservatory of Music level 7 piano certification with First Class Honours and Distinction, level 8 certification upcoming in July.
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
The emergence of my faith was in large part a consequence of coming to Del in Grade 10. On the one hand, religion class offered me much-needed intellectual and moral stimulation. On the other, I was blessed by faithful, loving friends who by their example encouraged me to seek truth, goodness, and beauty. Morning assembly, Masses, prayer, Brother Domenic's reflections—all these helped cultivate the spiritual life and served as reminders of the true reason and aim of education. Academically, the Catholic ethos fostered seriousness, diligence, and moral conduct. At De La Salle, I had teachers who embodied the concept of vocation and taught by word and by virtue. Two courses which were transformative and educative in the highest sense for me were Philosophy class—where we studied giants like Aristotle and Aquinas—and Literature class, which was firmly rooted in a Catholic philosophy and worldview. I think the effect of these courses would have been entirely different, even opposite, at another school. In the beauty of its campus, in the devotion of its teachers, in the friendship of its students, in the truth of its teaching, De La Salle was the blessing of a lifetime. I am grateful and joyful that many others have gone and will go through this same experience.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
On Wednesday afternoons, usually after a brisk match of ping-pong, I would go with a friend or two to spend time with one of our teachers in his classroom. It had a distinctly pleasant, school-like air, and the sun often poured through its windows. There we would converse, banter, discuss, or even just listen. It was one of those things which feels so undeniably normal yet, at the same time, is also a gift to be cherished. And there was always such openness, and genuine interest too, such that even a question like "How was your day?" was an expression of charity. This simple memory, of which I am so fond, captures the uniqueness of De La Salle, an environment where student-teacher relationships transcend class time and really contribute to the formation of the person as a whole.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
De La Salle showed me that service is offered first of all at the personal level: from teacher to student, from friend to friend. I think that before I can start serving society, I must establish love in my own relationships first—with family, friends, and those around me. As to the more distant future, I hope that my career will be centred on giving, on answering the questions "Am I doing something good?" and "Is there a need for my work?" Service to the poor and to the Church is also an answer to the call of the College. All of this, at this age, seems to me a daunting task, requiring prayer and counsel from others. But what is certain is that Del has gracefully shown me what it means to serve, whether at the personal level, through vocation, or through charity work. As we leave, we are told but this: Go, and do likewise.
Emily Lopes
Post-Secondary Destination: McMaster University
Program: Engineering
Scholarships: McMaster Award of Excellence
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 9
Co-Curricular Activities: Swim TeamBasketball TeamUltimate Frisbee TeamDuke of Edinburgh ParticipantPresident of DECALink CrewPeer Tutor (Math)YMCA volunteer (outside of school)Swim Coach at NYAC (outside of school)
Awards and Achievements: Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award, DECA Provincial Finisher (x4)
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
As I reflect on these last years, I see the ways in which a Catholic education based on good example, charity, and excellence has benefitted me, as it has provided me with various occasions to better myself and allowed me to grow as an individual. Furthermore, the environment of faith which exists at the school made for an atmosphere that was filled with kindness and compassion. I saw this firsthand during the year when my teachers and my peers were willing to sit down and listen to my concerns, my worries, and my ambitions; the support I found through this helped me succeed whenever I began doubting myself. Moreover, with an education rooted in faith, I was taught the significance of speaking out when something is wrong, valuing those around you, and the importance of connecting with others. Finally, I learned how to implement these ideas into my everyday life and live a life more connected to my faith.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
One of the most memorable moments from my time at De La Salle was participating in the Duke of Edinburgh hiking expedition when I was in Grade 10. As someone who had never been camping before, I was terrified and kept thinking up worst-case scenarios the day before our trip (e.g. getting attacked by wild bears and never making it back home). However, the day of our expedition came upon us, and before I knew it, my friends and I were carrying backpacks of over 40 lbs and laughing at how strange we looked to cars passing us. Although this was not the easiest hiking trip I have participated in, it was by far one of the best because of the new experiences, new friends, and new lessons I gained from it. This trip gave me some of my closest friends at Del, and we still talk about both the exhaustion and the memories which this trip gave us.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
My time at the College has given me the unique experience of seeing the impact a helping hand can make; additionally, the monumental lessons that the school taught me, such as helping those in need and showing kindness and empathy to people around me, will help me serve and make a positive impact on my community. As I leave the school, I hope to "leave to serve" by joining extracurriculars at McMaster, continuing to make blood donations, and finding areas in my community to volunteer in.
Mikayla Lorini
Post-Secondary Destination: King's College London
Program: Politics
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 9
Co-Curricular Activities: Co-head of the Debate Society, Editor for Oak Leaves Newspaper, Girl's golf team, Member of the eco team and Lasallian Youth.
Awards and Achievements: Honour Roll
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
I benefited from this education because it went beyond the classroom. Along with thoughtful religious discussion and furthering my knowledge in the faith, I was also fortunate enough to have real-life experiences of good example and charity. From community service opportunities to grade-wide retreats, the College has a good foundation in a well-rounded religious education that helps students both in and out of the classroom to get a better understanding of their faith.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
It's hard to pick just one, but I think the most memorable time was our Grade 11 France trip. It was such an incredible opportunity to use the skills we had been learning in our French classes in our daily interactions and seeing some really beautiful cities and towns throughout the country for that week. As well, it was a blast getting to travel with so many of my friends since it really strengthened our relationships and gave us so many memories that we love looking back on. If I could, I would relive that trip all over again.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
Del has taught me the value of being a well-rounded individual that doesn't overemphasize the importance of academics or sports or any one specific activity. Therefore, through the phrase "Leave to Serve," I think it helps guide students to go past themselves and get involved with the school community through clubs and teams, get involved in the whole community through volunteering and service, and also keeping up with the academics and expectations of the school. It definitely seems overwhelming at first, but it has been a valuable set of skills that I know I will continue to use throughout my post-secondary education and past that.
Bianca Tri
Post-Secondary Destination: McGill University
Program: Social Sciences
Grade Entered at De La Salle: 9
Co-Curricular Activities: Volleyball, Cross Country, Track and Field, Theatre De La Salle, Lasallian Youth Team, House Leaders, Link Crew Leaders
Awards and Achievements: William Markle Award for Senior Girls Volleyball, Recipient of Jonathan Herrmann Scholarship for all four years of high school, DEL Film Festival 2nd Place
How did you benefit from a Catholic education based on good example, charity, excellence and an environment of faith?
I benefited greatly from the charity of all the students and administration. Those students who have extended the so-called olive branch when I was a new student and the teachers who are very generous with their time to help me when I needed it most. Their generosity and faith taught me to be more understanding with younger students as I progress into the role of a senior. Most importantly, it taught me to be charitable with myself and allow myself the grace to strive for excellence and wisdom.
What is the most memorable moment of your time at De La Salle?
Definitely my first ever Meagan's Hug. As a new student, you don't really get all the activities that happen at school, like ShareLife and the House events, so taking part in the hug was really fascinating for me. Everyone running into the center of the field felt like something out of a movie, or a fantasy, now that close contact isn't something we do often now.
As you conclude your time at the College, how do you plan to live out the call to our graduates to 'Leave to Serve?
I will continue to give back to my community in my future years. Going on service trips to soup kitchens and shelters will forever remind me that I am very lucky to have the accommodations and education that I do.