Dave Leitao, rehired in March as DePaul University men’s basketball coach, will be the commencement speaker at Leo High School’s 2015 graduation ceremony, school President Dan McGrath announced.
Leo’s Class of 2015 will graduate from St. Margaret of Scotland Church, at 99th and Throop, on Sunday, May 31 at 2 p.m.
Leitao was DePaul’s most successful coach of the 21st Century, compiling a 58-34 record from 2002-2005, with one NCAA tournament appearance and two trips to the NIT. At the time, DePaul was a competitive member of Conference USA, whose coaching roster included Rick Pitino at Louisville, John Calipari at Memphis, Bob Huggins at Cincinnati and Tom Crean at Marquette.
Leitao was subsequently hired at the University of Virginia, where he made one NCAA tournament appearance. He also worked as an assistant at Missouri and Tulsa. When DePaul decided to replace Oliver Purnell after the 2014-15 season, Leitao was its choice.
“Beyond Coach Leitao’s technical abilities, what’s most impressive about him is the integrity he brings to his dealings with people,” McGrath said. “He recognizes that the academic mission of his school comes first, and his players are true student-athletes. We’re looking forward to having him as our commencement speaker. I’m sure he will have a powerful message for our graduates and their families.”