No less than the Superior General of the Congregation of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (CICM), Very Rev. Charles Phukuta Khonde, CICM, commended Saint Louis University (SLU) for its continued growth, strength in leadership, and the steadfast commitment to its mission and values, as reflected in the May 2026 President’s Report.
In a message sent to SLU President Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM on 16 September 2026,Fr. Phukuta expressed “sincere appreciation for the significant progress and accomplishments it (the report) highlights,” particularly by the breadth of initiatives, the concrete results achieved, and the sense of purpose evident throughout the report.
“As someone deeply committed to SLU’s development and future as a CICM institution, I received the report with genuine satisfaction and pride,” the Superior General -the highest executive leader of the congregation- wrote, adding that it was heartening to see SLU continue to strengthen its academic excellence, service to society, and institutional standing while remaining faithful to its educational heritage.
In the President’s Report, initially presented to the Board of Trustees on 30 May 2026, one truth stood clear: SLU is far more than an educational institution focused on rankings, licensure exams, and competitions. It is a dynamic, interconnected community driven by innovation, anchored in values, and committed to creating lasting, meaningful impact.
As Fr. Gilbert remarked in his Report, “Guided by the principles of turning mirrors into windows— to help our students see beyond themselves, understand others, and act for the greater good— we have ensured that every space we shape, every partnership we build, and every program we trail does more than educate. More importantly, they transform knowledge into purposeful actions that resonate in our communities, build up our nation, and reach across the globe.”
In addition, the Superior General extended his congratulations to SLU’s leadership and expressed gratitude to the wider university community for the dedication behind the achievements. He also acknowledged the Congregation’s ongoing collaboration with Groupe Scolaire Muanda Vuidi in Boma, Democratic Republic of Congo, one of the CICM’s partner institutions.
Rooted in Missio et Excellentia, SLU is steadfast in its commitment as a premier Catholic missionary institution under the CICM. This shared pursuit of purposeful excellence continues to be the University’s foundation and our horizon.
