A message from Our President, Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM

June 18, 2026

Dear West Catholic Community,

With deep love for Catholic education and wholehearted commitment to our Lasallian charism, I begin my service as the next president of West Catholic Preparatory High School. Feelings of gratitude, enthusiasm, and humility have marked these first days.

I am deeply grateful for the warm welcome and easy acceptance the West Catholic Prep community extended to me when I became a Burr in January. I joined the team as the Director of Student Success and was delighted to spend time in the classroom as a theology teacher, too.  I had no idea how quickly this school would feel like home and everyone here like family. My first months have held both the joys and challenges inherent to any new position, but each day has been punctuated by laughter and love. I anticipate this will continue in my role as president. 

My enthusiasm grows as I think about all we will accomplish together. We have the privilege of building on the lasting legacy of West Philadelphia Catholic High School for Boys and West Philadelphia Catholic Girls’ High School. The strong foundation laid by the generations who went before us has been intentionally and carefully stewarded by our teachers, staff, administrators, and especially my predecessor and colleague Andrew Brady ‘02. Our school has been blessed by tremendously dedicated Boards of Directors, devoted Alumni and Alumnae Associations, and the most loyal sons and daughters of West Catholic. I am eager to meet you. I want to hear your stories and memories, your hopes for our future, and all of the reasons why you know West is Best! 

Most of all, I am humbled by the confidence placed in me to lead this very special community. I will work each day to earn everyone’s trust by giving my all to West Catholic Prep in the tradition of the men and women who have courageously, generously, and prayerfully served our school.

To our students, you are the reason we are here. You matter so much to all of us, you matter so much to me. The most important part of my position is being your enthusiastic cheerleader and tireless advocate. I believe in you and always will. 

Transitions offer the opportunity to pause for a moment. We are invited to reflect and give thanks for all that has been while we look to our future filled with possibilities. Today, I stand with you on this threshold, grounded in our Catholic faith, inspired by our Lasallian charism, proud of our storied history, and hopeful for our school’s bright days ahead. Please pray for me, as I will pray for you.

Saint John Baptist de La Salle, pray for us.
Live Jesus in our hearts, forever.

Yours in Christ,

 

 

 

Sister Danielle Gagnon, RSM

President