Marist President Larry Tucker '79 Announces Retirement After 29 Years

CHICAGO—Larry Tucker went to Marist High School and graduated in 1979 only to return as president, providing 29 years of leadership at the Catholic high school. He will retire at the conclusion of 2026-2027 school year.

In a letter to the Marist community, Tucker, who logged 40 years in Catholic education, reflected on the students, colleagues, and friendships that have made Marist his second home and shared his confidence in the school’s future.

“Some decisions in life are harder than others, especially when they involve saying goodbye to a place and people who have been such an important part of your life,” Tucker said in his letter. “After 29 memorable years in leadership at Marist, I have made one of those difficult decisions. I will be retiring at the conclusion of this school year.”

“ After 40 years in Catholic education, it is difficult to imagine my days without the students, faculty, staff, and alumni who have meant so much to me. Over the years, I have had the privilege of watching thousands of young people enter Marist as uncertain freshmen and leave as confident young adults ready to take on the world. Many of those students are now leaders in their communities, and nothing has brought me greater satisfaction than seeing the people they have become. While I am proud of all that Marist has accomplished over the years, it is the relationships, the conversations, the laughter, and the everyday moments that I will miss the most.

As I prepare for this next chapter of my life, I do so with both excitement and sadness. Marist has never felt like just a job to me. It has been my second home, and the people here have become an extended family. Thank you for your friendship, your generosity, and the countless ways you continue to make Marist such a special place. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand what your support has made possible for our students and their families.

“Marist has been part of this community for more than 60 years. I leave knowing our school is in capable hands, and I am confident that its best years are still ahead. As a proud Marist alumnus, I’ll never be far away.

“Twenty-nine years ago, the Marist Brothers gave me an opportunity that would change my life in ways I could never have imagined. I can only hope that, along the way, I have made a difference in the lives of those who have made such a difference in mine.”

With heartfelt gratitude,

Larry Tucker '79 President