Brother Donald Charles Mouton

OBITUARY: Brother Donald Mouton, FSC

                Brother Donald Mouton, FSC, a member of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (De La Salle Christian Schools) departed this earthly life of April 17, 2021, at the age of 85, from  complication of pneumonia and cancer.  He is preceded in death by his parents Charles Mouton, his mother Heloise Lacour, and his twin brother Robert who died in 2013. 

                A native of Lafayette, LA, and proud of his Acadian heritage, he dedicated his life to the teaching profession following in the footsteps of his parents, Charles and Heloise Lacour Mouton, teachers for many years. In 1957 he received a bachelor’s degree from St. Michael’s College (College of Santa Fe) in mathematics, Summa Cum Laude,  and in 1971 a doctorate in Sacred Theology with a specialization in Sacred Scripture from the Catholic University of Paris, with highest honors, Cum Maxima Laude. In 2009 Lewis University of Romeoville, IL awarded him a Doctor of Humanities, Honoris Causa, for his exemplary service over the years in enriching the educational institutions in which he worked.

                He began his first teaching assignment at St. Paul’s School in Covington, Louisiana, and then at Chomedey-de-Maisonneuve, in Montreal, Canada.  After returning from his studies in Paris in 1971, he embarked on his long tenure at the College of Santa Fe as Professor of Religious Studies, Department Chair, and President from 1982-1987. In 1988 he participated in the International Session of Lasallian Studies in Rome, Italy in preparation for his many years of lecturing, particularly in biblical theology.  A much appreciated lecturer for his insightful content, eloquence, and engaging humor, he presented in many countries across the globe, in such places as Ireland, England, Philippines, Myanmar, Thailand, Kenya, Paris, Rome, Canada and Alaska.  For twenty-three years until 2014, he taught at the summer program of the Buttimer Institute of Lasallian Studies at St. Mary’s College, Moraga, CA and in the Lasallian Leadership Institute at several locations throughout the country.  He was a frequent presenter in seminars, and workshops.  He has also published a number of scholarly articles and monographs.

                He served for many years on the Corporation Boards of the Brothers of the Christian Schools and as Provincial Superior (Visitor) of the New Orleans-Santa Fe province from 1990-1996. He was also on the Board of Trustees of the College of Santa Fe,  Mullen High School in Denver, and St. Michael’s High School in Santa Fe.  He worked with the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (Higher Learning Commission) as a member of its Accreditation Review Council, including a role as it chair. He also was a member of the Santa Fe Chamber of Commerce Board and Santa Fe Rotary Club.

                His exemplary service at the College of Santa Fe has been widely recognized.  He twice received the Manuel Lujan Outstanding Teaching Award, as well as the Associated Student Government Teacher of the Year Award, and the Outstanding Professor of the Year award.  In 2004 the College of Santa Fe Board of Trustees awarded him President Emeritus status in recognition of his many contributions to the growth of the institution and the positive impact he has had on the lives of its constituents.  In 2009 the College of Santa Fe dedicated a new student services center as Mouton Hall honoring his steadfast commitment to the college.

                He continued his heartfelt and abiding commitment to  educatons after the College of Santa Fe ceased operation and 2009 by accepting a teaching assignment at St. Michael’s High School.  In 2010 the Santa Fe University of Art and Design, situated on the campus of the College of Santa Fe, offered him a full-time teaching appointment.  He also taught classes at Lewis University, a Lasallian institution in Albuquerque.

                He was fluent in French and competent in several other languages.  Well into his later years he enjoyed downhill skiing and tennis. Especially fond of music he had special affection for baroque music and played several instruments.

               His funeral and memorial services are pending. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Covington LA