LBOF Honorary Campaign Chair Believes in Taking Care of Family

MR. GENE EIDEN - HONORARY CHAIR

In his 36 years of leading Lourdes High School music department, Gene Eiden has many fond and cherished memories of what he calls his large extended family. He can’t help but smile as he remembers how the band had to walk 4 blocks in order practice marching. “I think we were the best street marching band around because we really had to work before, during and after our practices.”

He also recalls the point in time when his students needed to cross a shallow creek when the foot-bridge was under repair. “There was one French horn player who always wore heels,” Eiden shared. “She had quite the time getting across that stream,” he laughs.

During Eiden’s tenure he’s seen many changes to Lourdes High School. “Change is important to keep things vibrant and alive,” Eiden said. This belief has led Gene to accept the role as honorary “Lourdes Building Our Future” campaign chair. Eiden and his wife, Fran, have hosted several gatherings of alumni supporters to spread the message about the importance to contributing to the capital campaign. Eiden is quick to point out the direction to build a new high school is the right decision and one that needs to happen to preserve Catholic school education in Rochester. “To me, the Lourdes community became family and continues to be an important piece of my life,” he affirms. “When you are family you work together and answer the calls for help.”

We are asking our greater Lourdes family to answer the call to help us build the new high school. Every dollar counts and is affirmation of the commitment and belief to preserve Catholic schools in Rochester.

“I’ve been blessed by being a part of Lourdes High School. Others before me provided this foundational Christian place to provide education and inspiration. It is now my time and really all of our time to help provide this opportunity for future generations. Please contribute to the campaign.”