An Unexpected Connection Becomes a Multi-Generational Tradition

2/4/2025

For the LaChapelle family, what began with an unexpected connection between a math tutor and a student has become a multi-generational Severn tradition.

In the summer of 1989, Dave LaChapelle ’93 enrolled in a summer math course. At that time, the course happened to be taught by a Severn teacher and lacrosse coach. Personifying the “known and valued” principle central to Severn’s mission, this same teacher also recognized Dave’s potential as both a student and an athlete and encouraged Dave to apply to Severn’s Upper School. Inspired and intrigued, Dave presented the idea to his parents, setting in motion the LaChapelle legacy at Severn.

Fast-forward thirty-five years, and Dave is watching his son, Callen ’28, embark on his own Severn journey. And Callen isn’t the only member of the LaChapelle family calling Teel Campus home—Dave’s niece, Alexa ’27, is a year ahead of him, expanding the LaChapelle–Severn connection to another branch of the family tree.

Severn’s commitment to ensuring that each student feels known and valued resonated deeply with both Dave and his wife, Liz. “Callen has a lot of potential, and Severn is the place to get the most out of him,” said Dave. “He’s starting to find his voice and Severn will nurture that.”

“Severn will be his first real experience in working through things on his own,” added Liz. “We know Severn will challenge him and help him find himself in the process.”

This strong belief in Severn’s mission also influenced Dave’s brother, Marcus LaChapelle, and his wife, Melissa, when choosing the right school for Alexa. “We chose Severn because of the emphasis on being known and valued,” said Marcus. “I think this is what every parent wants for their child, and we love that Severn realizes it and makes it a priority.”

In Severn, the LaChapelles have found a small school environment where teachers truly know their students and challenge them to excel. “Alexa loves her teachers,” said Melissa. “She’s excited to try new things and feels very comfortable. It’s been a perfect fit.”

What’s extra special for Dave is that in addition to Callen and Alexa attending, several of his Severn classmates’ children are also Severn students. “It’s like we’re starting all over again,” he said. “I’m getting to experience Severn again through Callen, but as a bonus I get to spend time with my brother and his family and some great friends. That’s just icing on the cake.”

Reflecting on his unexpected path to Severn, Dave can’t help but feel extreme pride and joy in seeing his own son wear the uniform. “These are four really important years of Callen’s life that we’re happy to invest in,” said Dave, “because we know Severn will set him up for success.”

This story originally appeared in the Fall 2024 issue of The Bridge, Severn's alumni magazine, as part of a feature on legacy families. To see the digital issue, click here.

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