Cathy Molinelli
Cathy Molinelli of Saint Mary’s College High School, Berkeley, CA, is the San Francisco New Orleans District’s (SFNO) Distinguished Lasallian Educator (DLE) for 2021.
Molinelli was recognized in a ceremony held on November 18 at the 48th Huether Lasallian Conference in Baltimore, MD. The presentation was made by SFNO Office of Education director Michael Daniels. Also recognized were the DLE recipients from the Districts of Eastern North America, Francophone Canada, and the Midwest.
In nominating Molinelli for the award, Saint Mary’s noted her dedication to Lasallian Core Principles in her work and leadership in building the school’s Lasallian Catholic culture for students and adults alike. “Cathy,” the nomination stated, “is the heart of our community. We are ever grateful for her Lasallian-inspired work ethic, her kindness and her compassion that model for us what the founder envisioned for the Brothers of the Christian Schools.”
SFNO’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator is in her 27th year as an educator and 17th year at Saint Mary’s, where she serves as Vice Principal, Director of Student Life, Senior Project Director, and Summer Program Coordinator. She holds a BA in General Humanities from Santa Clara University and an MA in Educational Leadership from California State University, Northridge.
Molinelli with SFNO Auxiliary Visitor Br. James Joost, FSC and OOE Director Michael Daniels.
“I’m incredibly honored to be recognized for the work I do at Saint Mary’s,” Molinelli said. “I find great joy in creating and implementing programs that are inspired by our shared mission of creating relationships that change a child’s life. It’s a team effort and I work with amazing colleagues who are creative and inspiring. Our focus is always on the kids and how we can meet their needs.”
The Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award is sponsored by Christian Brothers Conference and recognizes educators who exemplify the ideals of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, Patron of Christian Teachers of Youth. It is presented annually in the name of all Lasallians of the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN) to honorees from each of its Districts.
