SXU Alum Makes a Difference for Students In and Out of the Classroom
Saint Xavier University (SXU) alum Larue Fitch '07, Ed.D., is making a difference for students both in and out of the classroom. Serving as a school principal dedicated to transformation and completing marathons for disability awareness, Fitch is committed to inspiring, motivating and affirming children.
Fitch's educational journey started at Saint Xavier. Growing up in Kankakee, Illinois, a small, rural area, he knew he wanted a college campus that was close-knit and personal.
"I chose Saint Xavier University because I was inspired by the culture and sense of community the campus offered. SXU felt like a place where my learning would be individualized and where I would be equipped with the tools needed to become a productive, engaged citizen," said Fitch.
Fitch was drawn to education because he wanted to be a change agent in a globalized society, and he chose to major in elementary education at Saint Xavier.
"I believed that education needed strong, intentional voices to inspire, motivate and affirm children. I wanted to be one of those voices – someone who could help shape not only academic outcomes but also confidence, purpose and opportunity for students," said Fitch.
Fitch believes his time at SXU helped him to develop his ability to think critically, problem-solve and collaborate with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
"SXU taught me how to persevere, overcome obstacles, and remain committed even when challenges arise. Those lessons have guided me through my professional and personal journey," said Fitch.
Fitch still carries those lessons of resilience with him today, which guide how he navigates challenges, leads others, and moves confidently through different spaces.
While at SXU, Fitch played on the football team, which taught him teamwork, collaboration, discipline and integrity, all of which have shaped his leadership as a principal. He carries those values with him daily, along with fond memories tied to each lesson.
After graduating from SXU, Fitch attended Chicago State University for his post-graduate studies and earned a master's degree in educational leadership in 2012 and successfully defended his dissertation in 2024, earning a doctorate in educational leadership. Professionally, he has served Chicago Public Schools (CPS) as a classroom teacher, teacher leader, assistant principal and principal. Fitch is the author of four self-published books and has contributed to multiple national education publications.
As a principal, Fitch enjoys the opportunity to transform an entire school community.
"I value engaging families, building partnerships, and creating environments where students and staff can thrive. Professionally, my goals include becoming a superintendent, continuing to transform my school community, and moving our school's designation from commendable to exemplary," said Fitch.
Fitch has a special connection to SXU's Mercy mission and believes that critical thinking, effective communication, service and compassion are especially important when working with individuals from different walks of life.
"As a Black educator, these values are central to how I live out my purpose. As a principal in the third-largest school district in the nation, I lead with education, service and compassion at the forefront. The Mercy mission reminds me of my 'why' and continues to guide my leadership and decision-making," said Fitch.
To Fitch, leadership means being collaborative, supportive and transformational.
"As a principal in CPS, I strive to inspire others by modeling best practices, coaching educators, and cultivating leadership capacity in those around me. The ultimate goal is to build strong systems and people in order to improve student outcomes," said Fitch.
Fitch, who is wholly committed to his students in the classroom, also honors them outside as a runner. For Fitch, running is therapeutic, providing clarity, perspective, and balance. Not only is it his passion, it's also a form of therapy and a vital part of his well-being.
He has completed more than 14 marathons in six years and is involved in the running groups Team TCS Teachers and Peace Runners 773. Driven by his son Josiah, who has cerebral palsy, Fitch became motivated to serve as an inspiration, not only to his son but to families and individuals living with disabilities.
"My involvement with TCS Teachers and Peace Runners 773 has been incredibly impactful in my running journey. TCS Teachers is a national Facebook community where educators inspire one another through running, and Peace Runners 773 is a premier running group on Chicago's West Side that focuses on holistic health and wellness. We are more than a running group – we are a family that motivates and uplifts one another," said Fitch.
Fitch hopes his work and dedication inspires the community though awareness, advocacy and transformation. His goal is to be a voice for the voiceless – especially for disenfranchised communities and children living with disabilities. To Fitch, running at 4 a.m. daily is not just personal discipline; it is a symbol of commitment and consistency that inspires others to take action and improve their communities.
As Fitch looks to the future, he hopes to run all seven World Marathon Majors. Having already completed Chicago and New York, with Tokyo scheduled for March 2026, he will only have four left.