05/26/2012 – Narragansett, RI – Mike McNamara is a legend at La Salle Academy. The example and quality of his life commitment to Catholic and Lasallian education is both truly incredible and inspiring. He is an extraordinary teacher not only in the mastery of his subject matter but in the connection that he makes with his students on a daily basis. From his earliest days, Michael has approached his work as a ministry. He might not have been able to articulate it, but faith and zeal were alive in him from the start. Graduates frequently refer to him as the best teacher they ever had and speak of his positive influence as a role model in their lives. His sense of inner peace and understanding coupled with his willingness to go that extra mile with his students contributes greatly to their sense of deep admiration and respect for both the teacher and the man. A deeply committed Catholic gentleman, Michael lives and acts according to gospel values and imperatives, with the Lasallian philosophy and tradition motivating and animating his life choices and direction. It is evident that his “touching minds and hearts” goes beyond his exemplary math expertise, to the realm of changing lives.
Saturday, May 26th, marks the Affiliation of Michael McNamara into the Brothers of the Christian Schools. Affiliation is the highest and rarest honor bestowed by the Brothers of the Christian Schools. By Affiliation, men and women, lay, religious and members of the clergy, are made members of the Institute of the Brothers of the Christian Schools. At great personal sacrifice, affiliated members have participated to an extraordinary degree in the life and works of the De La Salle Christian Brothers. As a gift which is deeply spiritual, they are invited to share more fully in that life and mission.