De La Salle Collegiate is pleased to announce a partnership with MarchMcLennan (MMA), a company specializing in Human Resources and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). 

DLS President Larry Rancilio, ‘86, said that the lead contact from MarchMcLennan is Gary Abernathy the DEI Practice leader. Abernathy collaborates with clients to help them establish or grow their DEI plans.

Joining Abernathy is Alysia Green, who will work closely with various student groups at DLS. 

“De La Salle is excited to welcome the partnership with Gary, Alysia, and MarshMcLennan,” Rancilio said. “Lasallian education and our school are committed to making De La Salle a place that is open and welcoming to all. 

He added, “Gary and Alysia bring a wealth of knowledge and background in DEI. Our staff, students, and families will benefit from the work they are doing and planning for the future.”

Abernathy, who also coaches running backs on the DLS Varsity Football team, was a Crain’s Detroit Business 2021 Notable DEI Executive. Green has extensive experience in DEI with the AAA Insurance group, as well as Trinity Health. 

Abernathy is initially focusing on the faculty and staff, to make sure they understand the focus and intent of DEI. 

“There is space for the community to learn more,” he said. “DEI doesn’t mean we believe in the same things. It means respecting others’ views, and being open to different perspectives.”

Abernathy said he and Green want to ensure that the various student groups are inclusive, not exclusive, and open to anyone who wants to get involved.

“We need to take down the walls and barriers of exclusion.”

Abernathy said that the student groups are not just about ethnicity or race.

“Many students live with a single parent, or maybe with grandparents,” he said. “We have a large number of students who are in a Catholic school for the first time. Student resource groups offer students a space to feel safe. 

Abernathy and Green are working with the DLS Counseling Department and invite parents or alumni who want to become involved or are looking for resources to contact Abernathy at gabernathy@delasallehs.com