By Dan McGrath

The world-renowned Leo Choir was feted at a “Welcome Home” celebration at 115 Bourbon Street on Saturday, October 25. In terms of energy, enthusiasm and plain old feel-good vibe, the party measured up to the series of “America’s Got Talent” performances that put the Choir center-stage in the American consciousness over the summer as they entertained their way to a fourth-place finish.

“The Choir’s talent, hard work and dedication showcase the spirit of our city, the strength of our Mission and the brilliance of our boys,” Dr. Shaka Rawls, Leo’s principal, told the crowd of more than 300 well-wishers. Bourbon Street, in Merrionette Park, was chosen to host the event after volunteering to stage “watch parties” during the Choir’s AGT run.

The gathering was designed to highlight the Choir and its achievements, so “speechifying” was kept to a minimum. Some of the political figures on hand offered messages of congratulations, and Father Michael Pfleger, Senior Pastor at St. Sabina, delivered a thunderous appreciation for the Choir’s uplifting representation of Chicago, the South Side and Auburn Gresham.

Dominiq “”Lady Lunchabell” Golphin kept things moving as the high-energy MC.

Volunteers staffing tables of Choir-themed Leo “swag” — hoodies, T-shirts, sweatshirts and caps – did a brisk business. Choir members signed posters crafted from their AGT appearances as a highlight reel played on the room’s big screens. Joined by former Choir standout Keith Smith, a 2025 graduate now studying music at Columbia College, they also performed a two-song set under new Choir Director Lonnie Norwood. 

A special guest made a surprise appearance midway through the program. Cardinal Blase Cupich arrived to announce that the Archdiocese of Chicago was matching a $100,000 donation to a college fund for Choir members that a Big Shoulders-affiliated donor established in the midst of the AGT run.

“We are tremendously proud of the Leo Choir for how well they represented the City of Chicago, Leo High School and Catholic education,” Cardinal Cupich said. “This is our way of saying thank you.” 

Between the two donations, each Choir member now has $10,000 to use for college tuition and related expenses.

“Any time you have an opportunity to do something that helps young people, you should do it,” Cardinal Cupich said.

Dr. Rawls was happy to accept the Arch’s support. 

“For our boys to be able to say, ‘I can afford to attend college,’ to make college a tangible experience for them … that’s super exciting for us,” he said.

As always, the show closed with the Leo Fight Song, signifying another occasion for a hearty celebration.