The popular Christian Brothers’ Dinner, an annual event that brings together nearly 1,000 alumni, past parents, and friends of De La Salle Collegiate, is returning to its traditional location at Penna’s of Sterling. 

DLS Director of Advancement Greg Esler said, “The Dinner has been a staple for our school for four-plus decades. It is a way of getting our alumni together to reminisce about their favorite memories and celebrate what the school has done for them.” 

The 2023 Honoree is Brother Robert Deary, FSC, a DLS alumnus from the Class of 1961, who has served the De La Salle community as a science teacher and administrator. 

He has had a lengthy career as a teacher, both in the United States and abroad. 

His “tours of duty” as a Christian Brother also include time teaching for seven years in the Caribbean on St. Vincent’s Island, at St. Raymond’s in the Bronx (New York), and at Bethlehem University in Israel. Since 2018, Brother Robert has been in residence at the Brothers’ house in Warren, and each day greets students and staff at the door. 

“Br. Robert was a natural choice for Christian Brothers’ Dinner Honoree,” said Larry Rancilio, ‘86, President of De La Salle. “He has meant so much to so many students and families at De La Salle. I meet alumni that he has taught over the years who have expressed the significant impact he has made on them. I cannot think of a more deserving recipient of the award.”

After several years leading the Christian Brothers’ Dinner Committee, Matt Loria, ‘95, is taking a step back, and Chris Fett, ‘90, an active member of the Dinner Committee for several years, is taking on the chairmanship. 

“A big thank you to Matt Loria for his work as the Chairman of the dinner over the past few years,” Rancilio said. “It is with much appreciation that we welcome Chris as our CBD Chairman. Chris has been a big part of the recent success of the dinner, and I am sure the dinner will continue to prosper under his leadership.”

A territory manager for Abbott, a medical equipment company, Fett works with cardiac rhythm management.  He is also a member of both the Pilot Medical Association and the Pilot Business Association.

“Everyone at De La Salle is part of the brotherhood,” Fett said. “It’s up to us as alumni to carry on the tradition.” 

Fett added, “The dinner is the single most important event that supports tuition assistance. And it is one chance to showcase to others who are not alumni, such as parents and friends of the school, what the De La Salle family, and the brotherhood, is all about.” 

For more information on the Dinner, including past honorees, past committee chairs, and more CLICK HERE. 

Special VIP Pricing on Tickets Now Through December 31, 2022!

Individual tickets and tables of 10 can be purchased for a special 10% discounted price now through December 31. Guests can reserve a specific table number or location. For tickets, and sponsorship information, CLICK HERE.