La Salle University proudly honoured two exceptional members of its community during Mission and Heritage Week on April 9, 2025. Each year, the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award is given to one faculty member and one staff member who truly reflect the university’s Lasallian values—education, inclusion, service, and community.
Honouring Those Who Embody Lasallian Values
Alisa Macksey, La Salle’s Vice President for Mission, Diversity, and Inclusion, shared heartfelt words during the celebration. “This tradition allows us to celebrate members of our La Salle family who show deep commitment to our mission and the legacy of Saint John Baptist de La Salle,” she said.
This year, the university honoured Daniel S. “Reg” Kim, a lead student success coach and lecturer in the Department of Religion and Theology, and Dr. Kelly Daily, associate professor and chair of the Communication and Expressive Arts Department.
Daniel “Reg” Kim: Leading Through Humility and Partnership
With nearly 20 years in higher education, Reg Kim has built a reputation for guiding students through both their academic and personal challenges. At La Salle, he has become a strong supporter of first-year students, helping them settle into university life and succeed from the start.
In his award acceptance, Kim shared a powerful insight: “To be distinguished in the Lasallian sense is actually to become undistinguished.” He believes in working alongside students, not above them. “I give them space to be the experts of their own lives,” he said.
One student reflected this impact in their message: “This staff member goes above and beyond for their students… I am so grateful for their support.”
Kim’s teaching style follows the Lasallian value of “together and by association.” He builds relationships based on trust and mutual respect, showing that real education happens through shared experiences.
Dr. Kelly Daily: Uplifting Students with Care and Courage
Dr. Kelly Daily has been teaching in La Salle’s Communication Department since 2014 and has served as department chair for the past three years. She teaches subjects like persuasion, media, writing, and research, with a special focus on health communication.
Her dedication goes beyond teaching. “The Lasallian value that speaks to me most is care,” Dr. Daily shared during her speech. “It means a lot to be honoured for the same values that brought me to this community.”
Students see Dr. Daily as more than a teacher. One wrote, “They challenged us in the best way, but also created a classroom where we felt safe and heard… They taught us lessons that apply far beyond academics.”
Her work reflects the Lasallian spirit of holistic education—not just building knowledge, but encouraging kindness, resilience, and social justice.
A Community That Leads with Heart
President Daniel J. Allen praised both honorees: “Reg and Kelly represent what makes La Salle so special. As a community, we care deeply, we work hard, and we support each other in meaningful ways.”
The Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award is more than just a title. It’s a reminder of the power of teachers and staff to shape lives, inspire growth, and live out the values that make La Salle University unique.
Through their leadership, kindness, and commitment, Daniel Kim and Dr. Kelly Daily have set a strong example for the La Salle community. Their stories show that great education isn’t just about lectures or lessons—it’s about building relationships, creating safe spaces, and empowering others to grow. As La Salle continues its mission, these award winners remind us all what it means to be true Lasallians—people who lead with compassion, purpose, and heart.
