William F. DeSpagna Scholarship

The Brother Cajetan Memorial Scholarship

Born in the United States, Brother Cajetan had a bright Irish light in his eyes and a noticeable Irish Brogue. He was only about 5’5” and had a somewhat crippled right hand. Thinking back to decades ago when many of you began your schooling at La Salle Academy on Second Street and Second Avenue, it is clear that whatever social, political, literary, mathematical, historical, Catholic and pedagogical convictions you may have can be traced back to a loyal band of Lasallian Brothers, and quite possibly personified by a man like Brother Cajetan. These Christian Brothers taught rigorous, demanding and solid education that was not then found in the secular domain of New York City Schools. Brother Cajetan played an important role in many lives, which is why we established The Brother Cajetan Memorial Scholarship to pay homage to him and the many lives he touched during his 25 years at La Salle Academy. This scholarship will be awarded to students whose families encounter unforeseen difficulties that affect their ability to pay their son’s tuition.