The reason, Fox said during a presentation of the check on June 26, was the impact the school had on his own history.
“The dynamic educators at De La Salle were able to take this poor kid from the East Side and make him a man,” said Fox, according to a school news release. Fox referenced the high school’s long-held mission, “Builders of Boys, Makers of Men.”
The presentation took place at a tribute event for outgoing De La Salle president Bro. Robert Carnaghi, who had been at the helm since 2002. Part of his legacy had been the “Preserving the Legacy” capital campaign, which aimed to bring in $4 million for future operations of the school, which currently has more than 800 students.
Fox, who was in the class of 1950, worked with his classmate Tony Matter, who also is on the board of trustees, to make the donation.
A portion of Fox’s donation will establish a scholarship fund. Another portion will be used to improve the school’s gymnasium and parking lot.
“Bill Fox’s gift is a testament to the fact that De La Salle makes a difference for young men and their families, and that the experience of a Lasallian education is worth preserving,” said Bro. Carnaghi.
Bro. Carnaghi will continue at the school, tutoring students and assisting the new principal, Bro. Thomas Lackey, who himself is a 1965 graduate of De La Salle.
