Show-Me State Times

A portion of Laclede Avenue in St. Louis has been given the honorary name "Pestello Way" in recognition of the contributions made by Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., and Fran Pestello, Ph.D., during their 11-year tenure at Saint Louis University (SLU). The ceremony took place on Tuesday morning at the northwest corner of Grand Boulevard and Laclede.

Marc R. Scheessele, director of Governmental Relations, expressed gratitude for the Pestellos' impact: “As many of us are going to drive into work every day on Pestello Way, I know we’re going to take some time to reflect on the deep impact you’ve had on the University and the community.”

The renamed stretch spans from Grand to Vandeventer and includes several key developments that occurred under Fred Pestello's leadership, such as Grand Hall and Spring Hall residential facilities and the Jesuit Center.

Fran Pestello reflected on their time at SLU: “This is an amazing day. It’s almost exactly 11 years to the day that Fred and I rolled into St. Louis to assume these positions, and it’s been an incredible run over that time.”

Fred Pestello shared his appreciation for St. Louis: “Fran and I were touched and honored when Alderwoman Laura Keys introduced this resolution [to name Pestello Way]. We’re proud to be and remain part of St. Louis.” He also highlighted the vision for SLU as a global Jesuit university focused on research and collaboration with the local community.

Marian V. "Bo" Mehan, vice chair of the SLU Board of Trustees, praised both Fred and Fran Pestello for their leadership roles: “We really benefited, both the region and SLU, when we got the two-fer with Fran as part of the deal when Fred came along.”

Eleventh Ward Alderwoman Laura Keys presented a resolution from the Board of Aldermen approving the honorary naming, along with a proclamation from the Mayor’s office declaring June 10, 2025, as Pestello Way Day in St. Louis.