Montini Catholic awarded Music Director and teacher, Mr. Donnie Glowinski their prestigious Lasallian Educator Award for 2025 . The honor was presented at the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Celebration of Excellence Awards ceremony on Friday, May 16th. Each year the honor goes to a faculty member who represents Montini's Lasallian spirit of education by 'touching the hearts' of their students and colleagues. "For the past six years, Mr. Glowinski has poured his heart, energy, and talent into teaching music at Montini," said President Kevin Beirne during his presentation of the award. "With a total of thirteen years in high school education, including time spent at another Lasallian school, St. Patrick High School in Chicago, he brings both experience and deep dedication to his students and his craft." During his tenure at Montini, Mr. Glowinski has taught a wide range of courses: Concert Choir, Varsity Singers, Chamber Choir, Concert Band, Symphonic Band, Music Appreciation, and both Digital Music I and II. "But, beyond the classroom, his influence runs even deeper," said President Beirne. "He serves as a Department Chair and contributes actively to school leadership through his service on the Schedule Committee, Management Council, and Academic Advisory Committee. He is the moderator of Treble Makers and Acafellas, the advisor for the Tri-M Music Honor Society, Music and Pit Director for the Spring Musical, and Montini's Auditorium Coordinator. His commitment extends beyond the walls of the school, this past school year, he helped lead service work at two Ronald McDonald Houses with his Tri-M student members and supported a student retreat." When asked why he teaches at Montini, Mr. Glowsinski says it's because of the students. In his own words, "They touch our hearts more than we touch theirs." A perspective, says President Beirne, that makes him not only an extraordinary educator respected by all of his students, but a true Lasallian, one who teaches with compassion, humility and joy. "From directing the choir during Masses to producing three concerts per year, to singing "Blue Christmas" at our Christmas Lunchtime Karaoke event, he sets an example for all Lasallian educators." Under Mr. Glowinski's leadership Montini’s Music Program has reached new heights this year - including their recognition as the Top Catholic High School Band in the nation (National Catholic Band Association). In May, Montini's Tri-M Chapter, under his leadership, tied as the winner of the 2024-25 State Tri-M Chapter of the Year Award for Illinois for their outstanding contribution to their music program and to their community. Mr. Glowinski was acknowledged by this award for his hard work and dedication to supporting his student leaders. "Mr. Glowinski has built an inclusive, welcoming, and joyful community through music - one that uplifts every student who walks into his room," concluded President Beirne. "He is respected by his colleagues, admired by his students, and always looking for ways to support others across our school community - a true role model, and a shining example of the Lasallian charism, service, and the transformative power of education through music."

Montini Catholic faculty, staff and students honored ​t​he retirement of Mr. Ed Gannon , the Lasallian college preparatory high school's Security Director on Friday, May 16th during their Celebration of Excellence Award Ceremony. ​ ​Mr. Gannon arrived at Montini in 2019, serving as Montini's Security Director for six years. "Ed’s journey with us began long before he officially joined our staff​,​" said President Kevin Beirne. "For seven years prior to his employment at Montini, Ed volunteered his time, helping in the parking lot during football games, showing his dedication to our school and community.​ Ed came to Montini not just as a professional, but as a parent who deeply appreciated the experience his son Bobby had as a student here. Bobby graduated in 2016, and it was the positive impact of his time at Montini that inspired Ed to join our staff. During his tenure, Ed became much more than our Security Director—he also coached the freshman football team for five years and the JV baseball team for one year, sharing his passion for sports with our students.​" ​M​r. Gannon also served as a host parent to one of ​M​ontini's international students​ (and a member of their Class of 2025), further demonstrating his commitment to fostering a welcoming, inclusive environment​ at Montini Catholic. Before joining Montini​'s staff, Ed had a distinguished career in law enforcement, including service in prisons and as an air marshal. ​"This background helped him bring a calm, friendly, and professional presence to our school, always putting our safety first while building strong relationships with students and colleagues alike​,​" said President Beirne. "Ed was always proactive in finding ways to make our school a safer and more supportive community, allowing both students and teachers to focus on learning without worry. His contributions to our school have left a lasting, positive impact.​ We wish ​E​d and his family much happiness and relaxation in this new chapter of their lives. We are deeply grateful for all that ​h​e has done to make Montini a better place, and we will surely miss his steady presence and warm spirit.​" ​Mr. Gannon is a resident of Downers Grove and a member of St. Mary of Gostyn Parish in Downers Grove. He and his wife, Bridget, have two adult children, Kathleen and Bobby '16.