Br. Joaquin Severino "Kenneth" Martinez FSC, D.Min., is a distinguished figure in the field of education, celebrated for his extensive leadership journey and unwavering commitment to the Lasallian mission.

Armed with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and advanced degrees, including a Doctorate in Ministry (D.Min.), Br. Kenneth possesses a unique blend of expertise.

Throughout his illustrious career, he has held notable positions, including the presidency of esteemed Lasallian institutions such as De La Salle Canlubang and De La Salle Lipa. His visionary leadership at these institutions resulted in substantial advancements and a lasting impact on the educational landscape.

Br. Kenneth's influence extends beyond individual institutions. He has actively contributed to various Lasallian associations and boards, including the International Association of La Salle Universities (IALU) and the Catholic Education Association of the Philippines - Negros Island Region (CEAP NIR). His dedication to these organizations reflects his commitment to the broader Lasallian community.

Currently, Br. Kenneth serves as the President of the University of St. La Salle. His exemplary leadership, bolstered by his Doctorate in Ministry, underscores his profound impact on the field, shaping the future of education for generations to come.

Br. Joaquin Severino “Kenneth” Martinez FSC, D.Min.

The University of St. La Salle is a non-profit educational institution established in 1952 by three American Brothers of the Christian Schools, part of the Philippine District of the Brothers of the Christian Schools.

MISSION-VISION STATEMENT OF THE LASALLIAN FAMILY IN THE PHILIPPINES

Preamble

Just as St. John Baptiste de La Salle was deeply moved by the plight of the poor and at-risk youth, we, the members of the Lasallian schools in the Philippines, commit ourselves to the Lasallian mission of providing a human and Christian education, prioritizing the poor.

We aim to promote peace and justice through evangelization and faith education, achieving this through our Shared Mission.

We draw strength and inspiration from the many Lasallians who live out the spirit of La Salle in our country today.

They are dedicated to serving the youth of the Philippines, especially those in need and at risk.

OUR ROOTS

One Man and a Dream

Our story began over 300 years ago with one man and a dream.

That man was St. John Baptiste de La Salle, and the dream was education for the poor.

La Salle was born on April 30, 1651, into a wealthy family in Reims, France.

He believed that education provided hope and opportunity, leading individuals to a life of dignity and freedom as children of God.

La Salle was a person of refined character and cultured intellect, with remarkable practical skills.

He lived in a society marked by stark contrasts between wealth and poverty, where a few wealthy individuals dominated the lives of many poor and powerless people.

To devote himself more fully to God and his mission, he chose the path of a religious life and was ordained a priest at the age of 27.

La Salle was deeply affected by the social inequalities he witnessed and dedicated himself to the education of the poor, convinced that all men and women should live dignified lives as children of God.

He began gathering unemployed young men into his home to train them as excellent Christian teachers. When his family and friends refused to accept them, he moved to other locations to continue his work.

Despite strong opposition and criticism from his family and friends, La Salle pursued his mission with unwavering faith, passion, and endless perseverance. As a result, at the age of 33 in 1684, he founded the Brothers of the Christian Schools.

Through this religious community, La Salle established charity schools and teacher training centers for poor children, paving the way for education as a path of love and justice.

Today, more than 300 years later, the Brothers of La Salle continue to dedicate themselves to youth worldwide, spreading God's love through Lasallian education in schools, universities, and educational institutions in over 80 countries.