The shield
The shield represents strength, protection, and the responsibility to carry important values forward. It holds the founders’ story while pointing beyond them—to the generations who will make those values their own.
Applications return each spring · AvH students in Grades 7–12
LecchinoLeadership & Community Service AwardThe Coat of Arms
A story of heritage, education, perseverance, and service—held within one shield.
Every line
carries
something
forward.
The mountains
Four peaks represent the four languages spoken by Michael and Vanda: English, French, German, and Italian. Their line subtly forms an M and a V, while the three inverted peaks honour Mont Giroux, Mont Orford, and Alfred-Desrochers—the three summits of Mont Orford. Together, they evoke ambitious goals, challenges overcome, and the drive to keep reaching higher.
The water
The flowing lines represent LaSalle, the nearby Lachine Canal, and the St. Lawrence River. They also carry a family history: their grandparents crossed the ocean from Italy to Canada in search of opportunity and a better future. Like water, that journey speaks to movement, resilience, and renewal.
The open book
The book reflects the central role of education—from kindergarten through the Abitur at AvH, university, and a lifetime of learning. It remains open because learning is never truly finished. What we learn can become a way to create opportunity and strengthen the lives of others.
One mark. Many meanings.