Washington, D.C. – Representatives from across the District of Eastern North America (DENA) gathered on March 27-28, 2026, at Saint John’s College High School for the District Representatives Conference. The annual gathering brought together Brothers and Partners serving on boards of trustees across Lasallian ministries to reflect on governance, deepen their understanding of mission, and strengthen their role in sustaining Lasallian identity.

The conference opened with a prayer service led by the student peer ministers of Saint John’s College High School, grounding participants in a shared spirit of faith and reflection. This was followed by a keynote address from Brother Ernest Miller, FSC, who invited participants to reflect on the theme of mission formation as a response to both call and responsibility. Drawing from Scripture and the Lasallian tradition, he emphasized that formation is not simply the transmission of knowledge, but a deeper process of transformation that strengthens commitment to the mission.

Throughout the conference, sessions focused on the evolving role of District Representatives in animating Lasallian formation within their ministries. Jim Logan led a session highlighting the responsibility of trustees to actively support and sustain formation efforts at the local level, ensuring that boards remain grounded in the purpose and values of the Lasallian mission. Discussions reinforced that governance is not only about oversight, but about safeguarding the “why” of the mission and ensuring its vitality for future generations.

Interactive sessions facilitated by Justin Martineau and Benjamin Ventresca created space for dialogue and shared reflection among participants. Through guided discussions, representatives explored how boards can influence culture, strengthen relationships within their ministries, and remain responsive to the needs of their communities. These conversations emphasized collaboration and the importance of working “together and by association” in advancing the mission.

Additional presentations, including a session led by Brother Robert Schaefer, FSC, on sustaining Lasallian school culture, further reinforced the importance of formation as a lifelong and communal process. Participants were encouraged to view their role not only as governance leaders, but as stewards of a shared mission rooted in faith, service, and education.

The conference concluded with a call for continued engagement, inviting representatives to bring insights from the gathering back to their respective ministries. As the District continues to deepen its commitment to mission formation and governance, the 2026 Conference served as a reminder that the strength of the Lasallian mission depends on leaders who are both formed and committed to its purpose.

The District Representatives Conference remains a key moment for reflection, collaboration, and renewal; ensuring that Lasallian ministries across the District continue to thrive in faith, service, and community.