Shining Star Award

Bartley “BJ” Costello III one of LaSalle Schools longest serving trustees, since 1987 and former Chair. BJ serves as a mentor, possessing an extraordinary amount of institutional knowledge of LaSalle School and the LaSallian Brothers. He is a specialist in governance issues and not-for-profit corporations, and serves as LaSalle’s liaison with local, state and federal politicians and public servants.

BJ is a community advocate and activist dedicated to improving the quality of life for those who live and work in the City of Albany through involvement in the Pine Hills Neighborhood Association and Council of Albany Neighborhood Associations.

The Shining Star award is bestowed upon an outstanding member of the community for their continuous commitment to the work of LaSalle School, which provides therapeutic, educational, and supportive services designed to accomplish positive, personal growth and lasting change in the lives of disadvantaged youth and families. 

Mary G. Breslin Volunteer Service Award

Gerard “Jerry” Finin is a dedicated LaSalle volunteer and created the LaSalle School bike club. Jerry has taken students on 20-mile bike rides around the community and has worked closely teaching our students how to repair and restore bicycles. You will often find BJ and Jerry together on the weekend taking bike trips with our students.

The Mary G. Breslin Volunteer Service Award is bestowed upon individuals who teach by example with understanding, style, and grace, of the needy and disadvantaged.