Meet Declan

FEATURING: Declan Bell '24 "The pride every person who is a Don has for this community [is] a great connector."

Hearing the name Declan Bell will inevitably bring a smile to your face. Since 6th grade he’s been an integral part of the Loyola Blakefield community and the energy he brings to the student forums, service activities, and any student event is contagious. 

From the beginning, Declan aspired to be a member of the SGA and this year served as President. He is also a peer educator and a leader in the One Love Club, “I enjoy connecting with the younger students.” Declan was also recently named Co-Captain of the varsity lacrosse team, an acknowledgement of the strong leadership he brings to the team. And while lacrosse remains his first athletic love, Declan has an equal fondness for his time on the cross-country team. According to him, “the camaraderie is great, and I always enjoyed Coach Albornoz’s analysis of the previous practice.”

In addition to carrying on his family’s extensive legacy, continuing to nourish his Catholic faith was also a big part of why Declan chose to come to Loyola. When asked what he thinks is unique about being a Loyola Don, he responded, “the pride every person who is a Don has for this community. It is a great connector.”

 

For Declan, being a Don is “being kind and compassionate, a friend to everyone, a guy who people can relate to.” His favorite part of the day is walking to homeroom catching up with friends and being in the locker room before lacrosse practice begins. These personal interactions are what mean the most to him. “If I am having a stressful time, hearing a hello from someone in the halls can totally change how I approach the day.” Declan makes a point to do the same for others.

This commitment to brotherhood is what earned him the prestigious Daniel McNeal Award. This award is given to a Don who lives his faith in word and deed, displays academic excellence, is actively engaged in the community, and, most of all is a man for others.