Leaders from the University of St. La Salle (USLS) recently joined the 2026 Rome Program of the International Association of Lasallian Universities (IALU), a leadership formation initiative that brought together Lasallian educators and administrators from around the world. Held in Rome, the program focused on leadership, mission, and the changing role of Catholic and Lasallian education.
Representing the University was University Chancellor, Minnie O. Chua, Vice Chancellor for Mission and Development, Mark Christopher Dueñas, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Dr. Toni-An Lachica and Executive Assistant to the President, Jennifer Yulo.
Their participation reflects the University’s continued investment in leadership formation and stronger ties within the global Lasallian network.
A key moment in the program was an audience with Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Culture and Education. During the discussion, he encouraged universities to be spaces for critical thinking and reminded participants that developments in artificial intelligence must remain grounded in ethics, human dignity, and the common good.
Organized by IALU, the Rome Program gives Lasallian institutions a space to share ideas, learn from one another, and respond to challenges facing education today.
For the University, participating in the program strengthens its connection to the wider Lasallian community and supports the formation of leaders grounded in mission and service.