Mr. Fitzmorris visits with senior and Student Council President Christopher Dupré following Morning Assembly. Dupré introduced Fitzmorris to the Blue Jays gathered at Assembly.

From time to time, distinguished alumni return to speak to Blue Jays at Morning Assembly as part of the Alumni Speaker Series. Current Blue Jays are inspired as they hear how alumni are applying the knowledge and character traits they obtained from their Jesuit education. As alumni speakers share stories about their lives and the paths that led them back to their alma mater, it serves a valuable role in inspiring this generation of Blue Jays.

Jimmy Fitzmorris, of the Class of 1939, did just that as he returned to Carrollton and Banks on Friday, Nov. 15, which also was the date of his 92nd birthday. In his long, celebrated career, Fitzmorris has served as one of the youngest and longest-tenured railroad executives in the country, a member of the New Orleans City Council, a two-term lieutenant governor of the state of Louisiana, and a model civic leader. For the past 66 years, he has given of himself for the community of Mount Carmel Academy, where he is affectionately known as “Mr. Mount Carmel.” A noted public servant and supportive alum, Fitzmorris was named Jesuit’s 1972 Alumnus of the Year.

As he stepped up to the podium, several students sang an enthusiastic rendition of “Happy Birthday to You,” and were given a thumbs-up and grateful nod by Mr. Fitzmorris. Despite nearly eight decades separating him and many current Blue Jays, Fitzmorris’ speech at Morning Assembly motivated and encouraged many students. See why in the video below.