Winter 2026 Alumni Magazine

PRESIDENT'S COLUMN

Anyone who knows Belen is aware the school’s motto is “Men for Others.” It is a phrase ingrained in the hearts of every student, faculty member, and alumnus. Nothing pleases me more than speaking with alumni who reference the slogan when recalling their Belen experience. What most people do not know is its origin. It is easy to think it was conjured up by St. Ignatius of Loyola and number it among many other quotable phrases of our founder, but it wasn’t.

“Men for Others” originated from a pivotal speech delivered in 1973 by Fr. Pedro Arrupe, S.J., Superior General of the Society of Jesus, at the International Congress of Jesuit Alumni of Europe in Valencia, Spain. He intended to challenge graduates to move beyond self-interest and become agents of change, emphasizing solidarity with the suffering. Fr. Arrupe wanted to be sure they understood that as alumni of a Jesuit school, their obligation was to live their lives for God and neighbor, dedicating themselves to love and service, especially for the least of their neighbors.

Ultimately, this is the accurate measure of the quality of education provided by a Jesuit school. The impact of a Jesuit education is not measured by the number of scientists, authors, lawyers, or entrepreneurs it produces, but by the number of scientists, authors, lawyers, and entrepreneurs it produces that serve the needs of others.

As Jesus so powerfully claims in the gospel of St. Matthew, when the moment of judgement arrives, what will separate the sheep from the goats is, “I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, naked and you clothed me” (25:35-36). The determining factor is not rich or poor, Harvard or Yale, a chateau

in southern France or a villa in northern Spain. The determining factor is being a man for others.

One of the pillars of our strategic plan is to engage our alumni and provide them with opportunities to exercise their vocation to serve others. Over the years, our Alumni Association has launched several initiatives to do exactly that. More recently, the creation of the Belen Alumni Missions (BAM) has taken that to a new level. Inspired by the Belen Youth Missions (BYM) created in the early 1980s by Fr. Eddy Alvarez, S.J., ’63 this new program exposes our alumni to the reality of the poor in the Dominican Republic. It offers them the opportunity to come together as brothers and serve.

This issue of the Alumni Magazine highlights service opportunities, such as BAM, provided by the Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools of Cuba and Miami. They are clearly in line with the challenge emphasized by Fr. Arrupe back in 1973. They are a way to demonstrate that our Belen Jesuit education runs deeper than simply having learned calculus or physics. They are a response to an obligation not given to us recently by Father General, but given to us long ago by Jesus himself.

Auspice Maria, Fr. Willie, S.J. ‘87

Guillermo M. García-Tuñón, S.J., Ed. D., ‘87 President

Roberto Borbolla ‘56 Alumni Content Editor

Ramón Branger ‘92 Alumni Board Member

Carlos Bravo ‘86 Alumni Association Executive Director

Carlos Cristóbal ‘16 Communications Specialist

Carlos Jiménez ‘15 Alumni Data & Support Administrator

Teresa Martínez Director of Communications

Mirna Menéndez Copy Editor

Alumni Association Board of Directors

José “Pep” López Varela ‘87 - President

Carlos Hernandez ‘88 - Vice President

Thomas Pla ‘00 - Treasurer

Leo Cosio ‘14 - Secretary

Ramón Branger ‘92

Vicente Cossío ‘72

José “Joey” Gómez ‘08

Alejandro “Alex” Gómez-Pina ‘93

Steven Henriques ‘99

Eduardo “Eddie” Macias ‘02

Alberto Paradela ‘11

Carlos Pérez-Abreu ‘88

Luis Pérez-Codina ‘01

Rogelio Ribas ‘83

Carlos Suárez ‘00

Fr. Juan Manuel Dorta-Duque, S.J., ‘40+ Emeritus Spiritual Director

COMMUNITY NEWS

BEATRIZ JIMÉNEZ IGNATIAN

EDUC ATOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

Deacon Robert O’Malley has been chosen by his colleagues as the fourth recipient of the prestigious Beatriz Jiménez Ignatian Educator of the Year Award. The recipient of this award will be selected annually and given to a member of the faculty or staff who exemplifies the profile of an Ignatian Educator.

CLASS OF 2025 RIN G MASS

The senior class received their class ring during the Eucharistic Celebration on October 7 in the Our Lady of Belen Chapel. Fr. Willie, S.J. ‘87, presided.

FALL PLAY, LORD OF THE FLIES

Our thespians took the stage from November 12-14 and performed Lord of the Flies in the Ophelia & Juan Js. Roca Theater. The entire cast was made up of Belen students from middle and high school. Up next is the joint musical production of Hadestown with students from Lourdes Academy from April 22-25.

SIXTH GRADE LOCK-IN

The class of 2032 took part in the annual Sixth Grade Lock-In on September 12. This event is an exciting and memorable tradition for the youngest Wolverines of the Belen community.

TRUNK OR TR EAT

Members of the class of 2027 participated in the annual Trunk or Treat on October 20. Special needs students from area schools visited campus to collect treats from our Wolverines, who decorated their cars, for a fun-filled event.

FOUNDING OF A NATION

Members of the class of 2030 traveled to Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Washington, D.C., as part of the Founding of a Nation program. This patriotic learning experience enhances classroom lessons and includes museum visits and daily workshop sessions.

EIGHTH GRADE FAMILY DAY

The class of 2030 celebrated Family Day on October 18. These Wolverines made new memories with their families that will last a lifetime. From attending Mass to playing games to service projects, these moments brought the families together.

NATIONAL RECOGNITION PROGRAM AWARDS

Congratulations

FERIA DE LA HISPANIDAD

The World Languages Department hosted the annual Feria de la Hispanidad for the school community on October 17. This event highlights the richness of the Hispanic culture and includes traditional foods from Spanish-speaking countries and live music.

WOLVERINE CHRIS TMAS VILLAGE

On December 9, the class of 2029 hosted the Wolverine Christmas Village. The students welcomed the school communities of Great Heights Academy, Miami Learning Experience, Our Pride Academy, and Crystal Academy for a morning of Christmas fun.

Scholarship Program, and 109 have also earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Programs.

FATHER AND SON DAY

The class of 2029 enjoyed Father and Son Day on October 25. Activities ranged from prayer service to water games to football to trivia and more. This fun-filled day of bonding helped nurture the relationship between fathers and sons.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT

The bands and ensembles presented the annual concert on December 11 in the Ophelia & Juan Js. Roca Theater. The festive concert helped put everyone in the spirit of Advent.

ATHLETIC NEWS

(This speech was delivered by Fr. Willie, S.J. ‘87 during the Champions assembly on December 11, 2025 to recognize the state champion Cross Country team and the Individual State Champions in Swimming.)

Thisyear’s theme is Iron Sharpens Iron and it’s taken from the Old Testament. And even though it gets used by a lot of different organizations and groups, that quote comes directly from the Bible, where the author of that phrase, who we do not know his name, is very wise in understanding the reality of human nature as iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.

What I love about that quote is the fact that it recognizes that iron itself is not sharp. Iron only becomes sharp when it clashes with another piece of iron. And not only is it sharpened, but the other piece of iron sharpens as well.

This morning, we’re recognizing a group of young men and two swimmers. We’re not simply recognizing them for their individual efforts and their accomplishments, we’re recognizing them as a team. As brothers, through every practice, through all the training, through all the highs and lows, throughout every moment when one teammate had to push another, they create such excellence that we have no choice but to stand here this morning in this central patio and recognize them.

They were born with certain abilities and talents to either run or swim. It’s a gift that God gives man. Men can run and men can swim, but the fact is that it is through practice and working together that that talent is sharpened. It’s made strong. It’s made better. There is not a single individual who is standing here in this central patio today who can say that they do not need a brother, because I assure you that if you graduate from Belen and do not recognize that you get further because you are surrounded by brothers who sharpen you, then you have failed to understand what Belen is all about.

Ask parents why they are attracted to Belen, and they’ll tell you many things. The one thing they consistently mention is the Alumni network, that brotherhood that lasts for years.

You see, gentlemen, that brotherhood is what sharpens you. We talk a lot about individual success, and as a matter of fact, tomorrow night (December 12), we have the Sports Hall of Fame, where we are inducting several alumni who, throughout their careers in Belen, and later in college, and even professionally, played their sport at the highest level. But if you listen to their interviews, there is not a single guy who does not mention that the reason they were able to get to where they did is because they were with their teammates. That iron sharpens iron.

There is no cross-country team in the state of Florida and in the nation as great as the Belen cross country team, which is nurtured from sixth grade all the way to graduation. Why are they so powerful? Because they have a coach that understands that the only way

they continue to dominate that sport is because it’s not based on one individual, because he would be dull when running that course in Tallahassee. He recognizes that this is a team where one makes the other better.

We’re recognizing two swimmers, who since practically they were infants, were thrown into the pool to swim. But they also understand that because they have belonged and continue to belong to a team. They swim next to each other, lane to lane, they sharpen each other.

I need you to understand that when we choose a theme for the year, it’s not done arbitrarily. We do it because God has inspired us to use that term so that it touches your heart and your mind. I assure you that you will graduate from Belen sharper than any other piece of iron that Miami or South Florida can offer the world.

But you are sharpened because you are together. Your teachers, the staff, the priests and your brothers sharpen you to be extraordinary men. Extraordinary Catholic Christian men who are able to cut through all the garbage that the secular world oftentimes tries to present to you.

You’re too sharp for that, but you’re too sharp because you’re together. And so whether you are an athlete or not, you stand here to recognize this brotherhood that has provided for Belen such excellence in their sport.

I am convinced that next semester, we will have to stand here in the Garrido Family Plaza recognizing the group of individuals who bring home a state championship. And once again, we will recognize that iron sharpens iron and has been able to bring about such incredible pride to the Belen Jesuit community.

Our Lady of Belen, pray for us.

A PlAce to cAll Home Alexander Peña ‘06

Eight years ago, I made one of the most significant decisions of my life: trading the courtroom for the classroom. I have never been happier since.

My return to Belen was entirely predictable. While working on superlatives for the yearbook, my classmates selected me as “most likely to become a Belen teacher.” To be honest, as much as I loved Belen at the time, the idea of coming back to teach had never crossed my mind. It wasn’t until my junior year at the University of Florida that I felt an inclination toward education. I began taking courses through the College of Education and earned a minor that included teaching certification.

Nearing graduation and unsure about my future, I scheduled a meeting with Father Willie, my former spiritual advisor and teacher, to discuss a possible career at Belen. I vividly remember sitting in his small office when he picked up the phone and called Carola Calderin, the CFO at the time, to ask what the starting salary would be for a first-year teacher with no experience. Upon hearing her answer, I went home and applied for law school.

I was fortunate to meet the love of my life while studying at Northeastern University School of Law. We graduated together, moved to Miami, and both began working in the legal profession. After four years of practicing law, I realized it wasn’t for me. I felt unfulfilled and didn’t look forward to going to work in the mornings.

My wife, Kelly, was pregnant with our first child, Oliver ‘35, and we began discussing the changes we would need to make with a little one on the way. It was Kelly who encouraged me to pursue my passion for education. Nearly ten years later, it was the best decision of my life.

Being a Belen alumnus and teaching at Belen allows me to forge the kind of relationships with students that I treasured so deeply during my own time here. It was alumni like Tommy de Quesada ’96, Juan Vásquez ’92, Alex Zequeira ’90, Rick Raimúndez ’90, and Fr. Willie García-Tuñón, S.J. ’87, who helped form me into the man I am today.

Coming back has been special not only because I can build similar formative relationships with students, but because I now call many of my former teachers, colleagues and friends. I love being able to crack jokes with Mr. Williams and Mr. Padilla and see a different side of them. I continue to learn from great educators like Mr. Collins, who has taken me under his wing and invited me to work with him on the Close Up Program, one of the most impactful experiences at Belen.

Every day, I walk the same halls I once walked as a student, but now with a different purpose. The relationships that once formed me are what I hope to give to others.

It turns out my classmates were right all along.

The Rick Raimúndez ‘90 Alumni tAilgAte

CARRYING THE MISSION FORWARD

Alumni Deepen Their Ignatian Roots

By José Juara ‘90

Inspiredby St. Ignatius of Loyola’s directive to “set the world on fire” and guided by Belen’s strategic plan, the alumni board established the Catholic Jesuit Identity (CJI) Committee earlier this year. The CJI’s mission is to provide alumni of Belen Jesuit schools in Cuba and Miami an opportunity to encounter the person of Jesus Christ and to strengthen their relationship with Him within the context of our Catholic faith. In doing so, our alumni network mirrors Belen’s emphasis on fostering its Catholic Jesuit ethos.

• Using an integrated approach to fulfilling this mission, we have identified four areas of focus:

• Spiritual Development – encouraging sacramental life, retreats, consecrations, and prayer life;

• Intellectual Formation & Apologetics –fostering a deeper understanding and defense of our faith;

• Band of Brothers – deepening our brotherhood, maintaining accountability (“Iron Sharpens Iron”), and fostering connection to our alma mater;

• Men for Others – strengthening our vocation to our families and service to our community.

By centering these four pillars, the CJI Committee hopes to inspire alumni to deepen their faith lives and become instruments of God in their communities and local parishes, where men are needed to help revitalize the Church.

In this inaugural year, we have developed several initiatives to further our mission. To begin, the Committee launched a 25-day Rosary Rally in October—the month of the rosary—in gratitude for

Fr. Willie’s 25th anniversary of priestly ordination in the Society of Jesus, as well as for other alumni in priestly formation. We have also established a monthly alumni Mass at different parishes in South Florida and a monthly service opportunity at the Missionaries of Charity soup kitchen. In November, the alumni Mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church was offered in memory of deceased members of our community. In December, we completed a 33-day Marian Consecration with 30 alumni participating, culminating in a Mass at Our Lady of Belen Chapel on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Through this journey, participants explored Mary’s role as our Heavenly Queen, who intercedes for us before her Son, and as our Spiritual Mother, who continually prays for her children.

Looking ahead, future plans include Formation Nights focused on the pillars of our faith, as well as alumni participation in campus faith events such as the Eucharistic Procession in early January and the 40-Hour Devotion during Ignatian Week. The continued growth of our Catholic Jesuit identity will rely on representatives—our “class missionaries”—from each graduating class to promote these initiatives and encourage their classmates to “cast out into the deep” (Duc in Altum), as Jesus commanded, as we work to evangelize and accompany our brothers in Christ. The CJI prayer, read at the commencement of all our alumni gatherings, inspires our work.

FOUNDING OF A CITY

Joaquín Salvade ‘26 | Contributing Writer

Since2016, 8th-grade students have been offered the opportunity to experience the Close Up Foundation program, Founding of a Nation (FOAN). This program allows students to explore Philadelphia, PA, Williamsburg and Yorktown, VA, and Washington, D.C.’s numerous landmarks and museums, and enjoy countless activities that help them learn about the history and origins of the United States of America. However, not all 8th graders can make the trip.

This led to Mrs. Patricia Bustamante, beloved assistant principal of the middle school, and Mr. Patrick Collins, renowned U.S. Government teacher, banding together to create an innovative way to honor Miami’s rich history. To ensure all students receive a generous dose of culture, they poured countless hours and resources into creating a new, exciting program, one just as memorable and impactful as the Founding of a Nation experience: Founding of a City (FOAC).

From November 18–21, members of the class of 2030 participated in the first FOAC, enjoying an educational tour of Miami and studying its history and culture by visiting significant landmarks and gaining insight into the city they might have never otherwise.

Students enjoyed discovering the foundations of the city, such as the Tequesta settlement, or the arrival of The Society of Jesus, examining the emigration and immigration patterns of the city, and immersing themselves in the culture of Miami’s founders by excavating, potting clay, or even exploring ancient natural sites and removing invasive plant-life.

Exploring Miami’s roots

Aside from interactive activities and projects, students also visited a wide variety of culturally rich landmarks and impactful sites critical to understanding the timeline of our city. Notable locations included the Miami Circle, Brickell Ave Bridge, Bayfront Park, the Freedom Tower, HistoryMiami Museum, Gesu Catholic Church, and the Miccosukee Village in the Everglades. Whatever the adventure, whether it be foraging through Miami’s diverse nature or rediscovering forgotten history, the students enjoyed an entertaining, interactive, and enriching experience to help them learn more about the origins and founding myths of the city we live and love.

“The goal of the Founding of a City program is to show young men what every Miamian ought to know about our city and to inspire them to want to know more,” said Mr. Collins. “Fostering curiosity is not an easy task, but with a little help from Belen and FOAC, it is a sincere hope that our students become educated leaders of the Magic City of Miami.”

Before the creation of FOAC, students who didn’t attend FOAN participated in various field trips, including visits to the federal courthouse, a beach cleanup, and an exploration of the Frost Museum. While these activities were engaging and educational, they did not provide a strong historical and academic foundation that the Founding of a Nation program offered.

“It was my desire that every 8th-grade student would have the opportunity to be immersed in a high-impact program that challenged them to grow in knowledge and civic responsibility,” said Mrs. Bustamante. “In our excitement to explore historical moments in distant cities, we overlooked the profound and vital lessons waiting right in our own backyard. Once we recognized

that, we immediately got to work on designing this program. I am most grateful to Mr. Collins and Mrs. Maria D. Alonso, who were instrumental in making FOAC a reality.”

“FOAC was forged by the cliche, ‘Teamwork makes the dream work.’ Beginning with Mrs. Bustamante’s desire for a program to rival FOAN, a team of administrators and teachers came together to develop a first-rate program to launch at Belen,” said Mr. Collins. “It was exhilarating and fun to learn and share what we learned about Miami with the students.”

While our sunny, tropical city lacks the vast number of revolutionary-war-torn artifacts and grand monuments related to the birth of the United States, it is not without its fair share of history and culture. It too is dotted with significant landmarks, rich points of interest, and chronicled curios that paint the narrative of Miami in a way that can’t be recreated by an internet search bar.

“Founding Of A City is meant to mirror the central purpose of Founding Of A Nation: After a standard approach of reading, listening, and learning about the history of Miami, FOAC then takes students to the actual sites of our city to experience a connection with each historic place,” said Mr. Collins. “For example, we learn about the attempted assassination of President-elect Franklin Roosevelt in Miami a few weeks before his inauguration in 1933. The student group then gathers at the very spot where anarchist Guisuppe Zangara pulled the trigger and almost changed the course of history. Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak was hit in the burst of gunfire and soon after died. A tribute to Mayor Cermak is on that spot in Bayfront Park. That is not just knowing history but feeling it.”

“It really shed a new light on how I learn by not only showing me things that I couldn’t really have ever seen in the classroom, but also gave me valuable ‘insider’ information by being able to see and hear about these things up close compared to

only hearing about them in class,” said Christian Díaz ‘30, who attended FOAC. “For example, the HistoryMiami museum was particularly amazing for me because it was an immersive experience, and I could actually see the history in front of me. As opposed to just seeing a slideshow in class, we were actually being informed by people with knowledge and experience on these cool topics.”

The idea of seeing these monuments and historical relics firsthand, rather than seeing images and hearing their stories in lectures, was what interested the school administration in both programs. Any student from any school could research this history and produce a lengthy essay on it. Still, the idea is to get the Wolverines to see these landmarks and monuments in person and to get as close as possible to the history of where we live. Belen’s involvement with the Founding of a Nation has allowed countless students to have such an experience, and now the Founding of a City can offer the same to the remaining students.

“The FOAC program was designed to accomplish two main goals: helping our students appreciate the history of their city and understand the responsibility they have in taking care of it,” said Mrs. Bustamante. “We are committed to forming and educating the future leaders of Miami.”

A MISSION OF THEIR OWN

Belen Alumni Missions Launches

Sujayla Collins | Contributing Writer

Giving

back has always been woven into the fabric of Jesuit life. It shows up in schoolwide initiatives, community service, and— most powerfully—in the life-changing Belen Youth Mission trip (BYM).

Carrying this spirit forward, alumni José LópezVarela ’87, Eduardo García ’87, and Carlos Lastres (father of Kevin ’14 and Eric ‘18) began discussing ways they could serve meaningfully while reconnecting with one another and living the call to be men for others. What started as a simple conversation quickly evolved into a structured, recurring initiative: the Belen Alumni Mission trip (BAM).

Having chaperoned BYM for many years, the founders felt called to create an experience specifically for alumni — one that would allow adults to reconnect through service, community, and Ignatian spirituality. Their goal was clear: reengage alumni of all ages in a unified mission, provide life-changing support to communities in need, strengthen the Belen brotherhood across generations, and extend the school’s humanitarian reach far beyond campus. Unlike BYM, BAM is designed for adults with diverse professional backgrounds, allows them to contribute specialized skills, and fosters a peerto-peer brotherhood rooted in mature spiritual reflection.

“The Belen Alumni Mission felt less like a traditional service project and more like a typical Belen encounter from back in high school—one that stretched far beyond the walls of a single classroom. This time, instead of bonding with just our own classmates, 30 alumni from classes spanning half a century forged friendships that will truly last a lifetime,” said Javier Mariscal ‘86.

Planning for the inaugural trip began early in 2025, once the founders confirmed both the interest and the feasibility of launching a missionstyle alumni service program. The planning phase took approximately four to five months, and this included site coordination, logistics, participant outreach, and developing the spiritual and service components of the trip.

To organize a successful mission, the founders had to identify a community with pressing needs

and a trustworthy local partner. They had to ensure safe and reliable accommodations and transportation, and determine realistic goals for a five-day trip, including the coordination of construction materials, tools, and local labor support. In addition to the labor-intensive demands, the alumni team also organized daily spiritual reflections and masses.

They ultimately selected the town of Los Higos in the Dominican Republic, a rural community outside Santiago facing severe poverty and an urgent need for safe, dignified housing. It was very evident at first glance that this village was a place where the alumni’s efforts would create tangible, immediate change. This rural community was composed of humble and hardworking individuals who welcomed the alumni with warmth, humility, and gratitude.

Once the plans were made and logistics addressed, it was just a matter of getting the word out to the alumni. Promotions for this opportunity were handled through class groups, the alumni

website, the e-newsletter, other communication channels, word of mouth among class delegates, and some personal invitations from the organizing team. The idea spread quickly, and enthusiasm grew faster than anticipated; before they knew it, alumni from various graduating classes were responding to the call to service. A total of 30 alumni signed up to travel, representing classes from 1973 to 2019. In October 2025, they embarked on the first-ever Belen Alumni Mission trip.

“It has been over 25 years since I participated in the Belen Youth Missions. On our first alumni mission to the Dominican Republic, we built six homes—yet what we brought back was even more meaningful. Through the work and the moments of quiet reflection, we reconnected with the values that continue to guide us and discovered anew the purpose found in giving back,” said Steven Henriques ’99.

Throughout the week, alumni worked side by side with locals, sharing stories, laughter, and meals. In reality, this cultural exchange became one of the defining strengths of the trip. The village, with its lush landscapes and simple homes, was inhabited by families who worked hard despite limited resources. The group assisted in the construction and remodeling of six homes for local families in need. They even took on the opportunity to enhance a neighboring house that was not part of the original project. Javier Cantens ’95, who had signed up for the trip but was unable to travel due to a last-minute conflict, was an integral part of the organizing committee, overseeing overall construction and reviewing plans and cost estimates for all necessary materials.

The mission included many memorable experiences, such as attending daily Masses and reflections, sharing stories during evening gatherings, and enjoying meals prepared by locals and José Toledo ’96. Additionally, the alumni group had the opportunity to connect with Jesuit novices, including Luis González ’20 and other Jesuits from Mexico and Nicaragua.

One impactful memory for López-Varela was “personally seeing grown men from recent graduates to 50-plus-year-old alumni united in service. It was profoundly inspiring to witness alumni from different generations form authentic friendships,” he said.

Although the trip was filled with positive, memorable moments, it also had some hardships

along the way. It was a challenge to adjust to rural working conditions and limited resources. It was also difficult to coordinate construction timelines, manage the logistics of 30 participants in an unfamiliar location, and balance physical labor with the spiritual schedule. In addition, the area was unexpectedly hit by flooding rains from Tropical Storm Melissa as it moved through the Caribbean. The group overcame these challenges through teamwork, flexibility, and strong communication. Alumni supported one another, adapted quickly, and relied on local partners who guided on-site work.

“We gathered each day to pray together, to celebrate Mass with Fr. Mike Martínez, S.J. ’09, and to open our hearts about why we had come. No one wanted the nights to end. We talked for hours, laughed until we couldn’t breathe, cried in each other’s arms, hugged like brothers who had finally come home, and gave thanks to God for letting us live out the motto that has shaped us: to be men for others,” said Mariscal ‘86.

“The Eucharist is the ‘source and summit of our faith’ (Catechism 1324) and an essential ingredient of the mission trip,” said Fr. Martínez, S.J. ‘09. “As I repeated many times in our daily homilies, ‘there is no Last Supper without a washing of the feet’. In other words, there is no authentic worship of God without an authentic service and love to our neighbor.”

One of the most moving moments of the trip was the actual handing over of the finished homes to the respective families. It was a moment that few words could describe, and one that will undoubtedly live in the minds of those involved for the rest of their lives. For López-Varela ‘87, it was all about “the gratitude of the families receiving their renovated homes, and the emotional

reactions from alumni who experienced firsthand how their work transformed lives. The sense of purpose, unity, and faith will stay with all of us forever,” he said.

The vision for this project is to expand into a year-round alumni service program with one international mission trip each year, or two trips per year as demand grows. The long-term goal is to establish a sustainable, large-scale Alumni Mission Program that builds long-term relationships with communities abroad, involves alumni across multiple decades, and becomes a signature Belen alumni tradition, with members striving to serve as an example of lifelong Ignatian formation.

Alumni wishing to get involved can participate in future mission trips or contribute financially through the Fund for Belen, supporting materials, tools, and travel for those in need. They can also join local service projects or serve as class ambassadors to help recruit others. Every act of support—financial or hands-on— expands the mission’s reach. For more information, email alumni@belenjesuit.org.

WHY I GIVE BACK

Ifirst arrived at Belen as an eighth grader, a new student from a public school with no prior connection to Belen — no family ties, no older brothers or cousins paving the way. Over time, I realized I had found something special: a place that would not only challenge me academically, but also shape my character, my values, and ultimately, the person I would become.

Now, decades later, Belen is deeply woven into my family’s story. While living in New York City, my wife Maria and I were married by Father Eddie Alvarez, S.J. ‘63, who years later, baptized both of our sons. My oldest, Nicholas, is now a proud sixth grader in the Class of 2032, and my younger son, Michael, currently in the third grade, will hopefully join the Belen brotherhood as a member of the Class of 2035. What began as a new experience for me in 8th grade has grown into a family tradition that will continue for generations to come.

As an only child, Belen gave me something I never had before — a band of brothers – as Father Willie, S.J. ‘87 likes to say. The friendships I made back then have lasted more than two decades. We’ve shared life’s biggest moments together, and that sense of brotherhood is one of the greatest gifts Belen ever gave me.

My time in school instilled in me a strong sense of purpose and discipline. The teachers and Jesuits who guided us didn’t just prepare us for college — they prepared us for life. They taught us the value of hard work, faith, and integrity. Looking back, I can honestly say Belen changed the trajectory of my life.

Danny Adán ‘01

The school’s call to be “Men for Others” was emphasized. It challenges us to use our gifts to make a difference, to “give and not to count the cost” as St. Ignatius of Loyola prayed. It reminds us to use our time and talents to make a difference, to serve rather than be served. That’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my career and personal life. The call to give back has always been part of who I am. Naturally, that commitment extends to Belen.

Today, I serve on the Belen Board of Advisors, mentor students, contribute to the Fund for Belen, and volunteer however I can. Every act, big or small, is a way to honor the school that gave me so much. There’s deep personal satisfaction in knowing that I’m helping the next generation experience the same opportunities I had. I’ve watched Belen continue to grow — from expanding its facilities to strengthening its financial aid program — and it’s inspiring to see how the school keeps investing in its mission and its students.

I give back because I know that my own education was made possible by the sacrifices of my parents and the alumni who gave before me, and now it’s my turn to pay it forward. Every generation of Wolverines builds upon the legacy of the last. If we all continue to do our part — through our time, mentorship, or financial support — there’s no limit to what Belen can achieve.

To my fellow alumni: let’s keep the tradition alive and make sure future generations have the same opportunity to be shaped by this incredible place.

IRON SHARPENS IRON IGNATIAN SPEAKER SERIES

Teresa Martínez | Director of Communications

Thispast fall, the school administration drew inspiration from this year’s theme, “Iron Sharpens Iron,” to debut the inaugural speaker series. Three talented and dynamic speakers were invited not only to speak to students during the school day, but also to parents and members of the community.

The Ignatian Speaker Series kicked off with a powerful presentation by Matthew Bocchi to parents in honor of Red Ribbon Week. Matt spoke openly and honestly about loss, trauma, addiction, and recovery. During the day, 10th12th-grade students were deeply moved by Mr. Bocchi’s presentation and his powerful story of loss, addiction, and redemption. His inspiring words provided a critical lesson on living fullywith faith, hope and purpose.

On November 3, Jason Evert spoke to the Belen community and shared guidelines for supporting your child’s chastity. From setting clear standards to building positive relationship habits with your son, Jason gave us a roadmap for creating a healthy, strong bond between children and parents.

The Iron Sharpens Iron Ignatian Speaker Series concluded on December 3rd with an impactful presentation by Dr. Alex Kor. Dr. Kor shared his parents’ Holocaust survival stories and the message of forgiveness his mother carried into the world until her passing. His powerful and deeply emotional presentation captivated the audience and left a lasting impression, especially on the students present. He reminded us of the importance of understanding history in upholding human dignity.

We look forward to making the speaker series an annual event.

MAGIS ANDREW VARGAS ‘00

Kathy Mabry | Contributing Writer

Andrew Vargas ‘00 is reflective when talking about his Belen education. “I attended from sixth through 12th grades,” he noted. “Belen was the rock, the foundation of my formation. It formed me educationally, culturally, spiritually and morally. Belen — the teachers and administrators — taught us to use our God-given talents to benefit others.”

Over the holiday season, as the newly installed Reyes Magis Chair — the leader of the community service arm of the Belen Alumni Association — Andrew oversaw the annual Thanksgiving and Christmas events that benefit the Gesù Catholic Church community. Gesù is in a diverse downtown Miami neighborhood and is run by the Society of Jesus. Andrew noted that although Gesù runs a food kitchen that serves seniors and those in need, the church does not have the bandwidth to support and organize holiday events, which mandates that others step up. Belen and its alumni association have enthusiastically taken on that role.

The Thanksgiving event on Nov. 22, fed over 300 members of the Gesù community. “The first floor was completely full with people and families from all walks of life,” said Andrew. “We had lots of food donations — Islas Canarias, a restaurant owned by John Andrade’s ‘03 family, brought food, plus there were donations of Cuban bread, soda, water — you name it — as well as gift cards. Belen students had organized a food drive, so all families took home food for Thanksgiving dinner — turkeys, the whole meal — and Publix gift cards. Everyone left happy and satisfied.”

He continued, “What was also great is that many alumni brought their families to help serve. I brought my kids and nephews. Afterward, I received many phone calls from alums telling me what a great experience it was. There was a sense of joy throughout the event.”

The Christmas celebration at Gesù on Dec. 13, sparked joy as well. “Hundreds of children attended and each received two gifts based on

their age group,” said Andrew. “Additionally, Santa was there for pictures, and a number of bikes were raffled. For several years, Claudia Espinosa, mother of Ralph Espinosa ‘27, has donated bikes for this event.” Andrew also noted that the wishlist for toys that is posted in advance of the event always sells out thanks to the generosity of the Belen community.

For Andrew, Belen and Miami have been home for a very long time. He lived in the Midwest for years while he was continuing his Jesuit education as an undergrad at Loyola Chicago, followed by law school at St. Louis University. “They were great schools and I enjoyed the Midwestern experience, but there was never any question that I would come back. My closest friends from Belen are still my closest friends today. It is a tight knit brotherhood.” And 15 years ago, Andrew and three of his colleagues left the company they were working for and started their own law firm, Vargas González Delombard. It comes as no surprise that the partners are all Belen grads. “We didn’t plan it that way,” said Andrew. “But with our education in common, we saw how we could do things differently and on our own.”

Which leads back to Belen… “As practicing lawyers, we treat everyone with dignity, respect and professionalism. It doesn’t matter if they’re a blue-collar worker or a Fortune 500 CEO. Everyone gets treated well and fairly.” That, noted Andrew, is a direct reflection of the Jesuit education he received at Belen, and of the Jesuit principle of Magis — a more profound and

sustained sense of doing more for those around us.

The principles that have governed his professional life are the same that he has lived by in his personal life as well. Despite a busy schedule as a husband, father and attorney, Andrew has continued to look for ways to support his community. After working with past Reyes Magis chairs to support the Gesù Thanksgiving and Christmas events, Andrew stepped into the leadership role this year. “It’s a family affair,” said Andrew. “My wife, Nicole, and my children, Enrique (age 9) and Nicolette (age 7), attend these events with me. It’s really special to do this kind of work together.”

Andrew, who was a member of the student council at Belen and class president his senior year, has long embraced leadership roles and a commitment to service. He noted some of the teachers who influenced him most. “Of course, the Jesuits,” he said. “And Mr. Eugene Zoller, my eighth-grade civics teacher. He was awesome. There was always a level playing field. He taught us how to read and understand the news and to be good citizens. He definitely influenced my decision to become a lawyer.” He continued, “Belen is a second home. As we graduate, we may leave that home, but once we’re educated and settled, you come home. As an alumnus, I want to make sure that the school is doing awesome still; I want to talk to teachers and admin about what is needed, show up to events, pitch in and give back.”

10 Questions 1 Alumnus Jorge Riera ‘10

CEO & Managing Partner at Dataco Consulting, Member of Belen Jesuit’s AI Committee

What was your experience like at Belen?

I had an incredible 6 years at Belen. I developed a holistic, interdisciplinary foundation that I have carried forward throughout my life. I made great friends, developed a strong work ethic, and became a well-rounded person. I cherish my years there.

Which teacher or coach inspired you and made a lasting impact on your life, and why?

The AP Human Geography class I took with Ms. Ann Kenna has had a lasting impact on me. One of the projects for that class involved exploring multiple neighborhoods across Miami-Dade and Broward Counties to observe cultural differences. That project opened my eyes to how diverse the neighborhoods in the area can be and is part of what motivates me to travel as much as I do. I attribute part of my curiosity about different cultures and what makes different areas unique to Ms. Kenna’s class.

What is one thing you will never forget that you learned at Belen?

The importance of AMDG. We should do all things for the greater glory of God.

How has your Jesuit education shaped you and helped you throughout your life?

The rich formative foundation that I got at Belen has helped me across my different endeavors in life. From the public speaking classes I took with Mr. Williams to the athletic experiences I had running track and cross country with Barq, I developed a strong foundation for life.

Technology changes fast. Which habits or mindsets—formed during your years at Belen—have helped you stay grounded and adaptable in such a rapidly evolving field

The educational environment at Belen truly pushed me to new heights. There was a higher bar of what was expected from us, and I believe it is part of the reason why I have developed a pursuit of excellence today. In all that I do, I strive to push higher and achieve greater results.

How are you helping to advance Belen Jesuit’s use of artificial intelligence?

I am currently helping Belen integrate AI into its operations by applying industry best practices. We are at an inflection point in history, with AI driving rapid change

across sectors. Education is no exception. The use of AI in education has the potential to improve learning outcomes for students and support the mission of Belen. As a committee, we are working to equip Belen with an approach, framework, and guardrails for the ethical implementation of AI to advance student formation and achieve operational excellence as an institution.

AI can be a touchy subject in education. What would you say to those who believe we should stay away from it?

A calculated approach should be taken when applying AI in education. AI has the potential to help students learn in ways that cater to their specific needs, allow teachers to create more dynamic learning plans, and prepare students for a modern workforce where AI will be the norm. Companies are increasingly tying AI adoption to performance reviews and making it clear that employees who don’t adapt may find themselves left behind. These workforce changes need to be incorporated into education to set students up for success.

How would you envision AI improving the lives of Belen students when they enter the workforce?

AI will be the great equalizer, allowing students to access and synthesize vast amounts of information in a short amount of time. They will be able to ideate and innovate faster than ever before. This will allow them to drive significant positive change in their organizations if they harness the technology correctly.

Is there a moment in your career when something you learned at Belen suddenly clicked and shaped a major decision you made in the tech space?

I don’t think there was a single dramatic

moment, but Belen’s emphasis on being a man for others has influenced my decisions. It’s a reminder to use the gifts and blessings God has extended to us for the betterment of others, not just for our own gain.

What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?

Find a mentor. Regardless of what career you choose, having the right person or people in your corner will help you be successful in your space. Also, try to gain firsthand experience in the field that interests you as early as possible. Don’t wait until you are two or more years into an undergraduate program to work in your space. The sooner you do, the faster you can see if it’s actually what you want. Above all, seek the Lord’s guidance through prayer. May He lead you to where He wants you to be.

Announcements

Sacrament of Marriage

Vocation to Family

of

Matthew José, son of Maximilian Sánchez '11

Leo Alejandro, son of Cristian Jiménez '12

Sebastián, son of Alex Adams Jr. '14

Eloise Victoria, daughter of David Barquín '12

Paloma María, daughter of Javier Álvarez '13

Julia Elena, daughter of Alejandro Díaz '15

In Memoriam

Please remember in your prayers these members of the Belen Jesuit community who have passed away recently.

Alumni

Fernando Dominicis '54

Carlos Poveda '54

José Riera '55

Óscar de Rojas '55

Rafael San Miguel '57

Fr. Pedro A. Suárez, S.J. '58

Jorge Emmermann Maurino '59

Fernando Mata '60

Ricardo Páez '60

Siro del Castillo '61

Raimundo G. Menocal '61

Eduardo Pérez-Bengochea '61

Carlos Pino '64

Jesús "Alberto" González-Pita '72

Carlos “Charlie” Pérez Jr. '80

Erik Blanco '97

Miguel Fernández (Dolores)

Family & Friends

• Dulce Argüelles, mother of Donato J. Argüelles ’73 and grandmother of Donato A. Argüelles ’05

• Maria V. Ruiz, wife of Dr. Julio Ruiz '76

• Adrián Nuño, son of Roberto Nuño '78

• Amparo Casal, mother of Marcus "Mark" Casal '89

Rafael A. de los Reyes, father of Rafael de los Reyes '80

• Amparo Lazo, grandmother of Gerardo Cabezas ’05, Belen Faculty Member José Roca, Jr. '13 and Nicolás Roca '16, and great-grandmother of Germán Rodríguez ’30

• María Esther Clemente, grandmother of Elliot Clemente ‘12

• Manuel and Isabel Martínez, grandparents of Branden Martínez '12

• Mercedes Figueredo, mother of Belen Environmental Worker Francisca "Paquita" Aguilar

• Lourdes Arteaga, former Belen employee

Class notes

1970s

Rafael Portuondo '76 , of PortuondoPerotti Architecture, led a session of the New Heights Program for Design and Architecture titled "Project Development from Sketch to Completion."

1980s

1990s

Orlando Roche '84 was featured on Miami Today on his role as First Horizon Bank’s Market President.

NBC Nightly News anchor Tom Llamas '97 , in a recent article for America Magazine, shared how the values instilled in him at Belen continue to guide his faith, family life, and career. Tom credits Belen for shaping the man he is today, both on and off camera.

Luis Rivera '98 was sworn-in as a United States Bankruptcy Court judge for the Middle District of Florida in Tampa, Florida. He will also preside in the Court’s Fort Myers Division.

Submit notes in writing via email to alumni@belenjesuit.org , including your name and phone number.

Miguel Ferrer '03 debuted his film “The Shadow of the Sun” in local theaters.

Ralph Rosado '90 was sworn in as City of Miami Commissioner for District 4. Leo Cosio '14 will serve as his Chief of Staff. A special Invocation was delivered by Ralph’s former teacher and counselor, Fr. Pedro Cartaya, S.J. '54 . Dr. Joshua Caballero '93 , associate professor at the University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, was featured in a faculty spotlight for his passion in teaching, research, and adventure, that he credits to his roots at Belen Jesuit.

Ariel Fernández '99 and family had an audience with His Holiness, Pope Leo XIV. He took with him a cross with the logos of schools, parishes and religious movements that have helped them in their faith journey, including Belen Jesuit. His Holiness blessed it.

2000s

Rich Rodríguez '01 was inducted into the FSU College of Medicine Hall of Fame.

Alejandro Arias '05 , Partner and Regional Co-Chair of the National Land Use & Government Team at Holland & Knight LLP, was named one of the South Florida Business Journal’s 40 Under 40, for his leadership, business acumen, and deep commitment to our community.

Juan FernándezBarquín '01 was a guest at Rafael Yániz '07 's class at FIU.

Dave Caballero '03 and Javier Chang '09 spoke to our football team about how the sport shaped them into the men they are today.

Fr. Michael A. Martínez S.J. '09 was named Vocations Director of the Caribbean Province.

2010s

George Arango '11 was named a recipient of FIU Alumni “5 under 35” Henry Brimo '12 received the Florida International University Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management's Rising Star Award for Beverage Management.

Fr. Willie, S.J. '87 , and David Prida '14 in La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona while at the Belen Pilgrimage.

Gerard Albert '15 was a National Winner at the 2025 Edward R. Murrow Awards for Overall Excellence with “Hell or High Water: BPR’s Hurricane Helene Coverage”.

2020s

Carlos Andrés Maribona '20 met up with Belen’s Director of Communications, Teresa Martínez, while she was visiting Upstate New York.

Jack Sampedro '21 (Amherst College) was selected to the baseball All-NESCAC First Team, First Team All-Region, and First Team All-Academic District for the third straight year.

Reunions

Bobby and Andre Baró ’23 recently embarked on El Camino de Santiago, a centuries-old pilgrimage across Spain that leads to the shrine of St. James in Santiago de Compostela. They embraced the Jesuit spirit of reflection and faith, deepening their bond as brothers.

Michael Brunet '25 was named to the 2025 Landmark Second Team All-Conference for Cross Country and earned Rookie of the Year for his impressive performance at Catholic University of America.

Lorenzo Rodríguez ’25 (left) finished in fifth place at the Toyota Junior World Cup Championship in Nagoya, Japan.

Alumni Gatherings

Alumni Gatherings

Alumni Gatherings

Alumni Gatherings

Alumni Gatherings

Alumni Gatherings

REYES MAGIS Thanksgiving Food Drive

Christmas Toy Drive

President of the Association

When I stepped into the role of president of the Belen Alumni Association three and a half years ago, I never imagined how deeply this experience would reconnect me to our school’s mission and the brotherhood that defines us. What began as a responsibility soon became a calling—to strengthen the bonds among alumni while keeping Belen’s Jesuit identity at the heart of all we do. As I look back, three initiatives stand out as milestones in our journey together: the Father Sardiña Fishing Tournament, the Catholic Jesuit Identity Committee, and the inaugural Belen Alumni Mission.

That calling first took shape on the water, with an idea that would honor a beloved Jesuit and bring generations of brothers together. The Father Sardiña ’45 Fishing Tournament was born from a simple desire: to remember Fr. Jorge Sardiña, S.J., in a way that reflected his joy, accessibility, and love for Belen. The idea had been floating around for a while, but we built a plan, presented it to the administration, and received approval for our first tournament in 2023. In just three years, we have become one of the largest fishing tournaments in South Florida and have raised almost $250,000 for the Father Sardiña Scholarship Fund. It would not have happened

without our co-chairs, Eddie Macías ’02 and Albert Paradela ’11, and the entire committee. As meaningful as it was to gather as brothers on the water, it was just as important to ensure that everything we did as an association remained clearly rooted in our Catholic, Jesuit identity.

That conviction led to the creation of the Catholic Jesuit Identity Committee, dedicated to keeping Belen’s spiritual and Ignatian heritage at the forefront of alumni life. What this committee has done in less than a year is incredible. It focuses on four areas: spiritual, intellectual, band of brothers, and service, creating programming that offers more opportunities for alumni to grow closer to our Lord Jesus Christ. I am grateful to this committee for their hard work and for all that lies ahead. Still, the question remained: how could alumni move from reflection to direct service, living out “men for others” in a concrete way beyond our campus?

The answer emerged in the inaugural Belen Alumni Mission, which invited graduates to step into the long tradition of Belen missionary work, serving communities in need while deepening their own faith. This first group of 30 alumni, from the classes of 1973 to 2019, completed the mission in the community of Los Higos, Dominican Republic, building and furnishing six homes for families in need. I want to give a special thanks to the committee led by Eduardo García ’87 and Carlos Lastres P’14 P’18 for making this first mission a reality, and to our spiritual advisor, Fr. Michael Martínez, S.J. ’09, whose daily Masses made the experience even more meaningful.

As my term comes to an end, what will stay with me are not just the events and committees, but the faces, conversations, and quiet moments of grace shared among Belen men. Each of these initiatives has shown that when our alumni come together, rooted in faith and brotherhood, we can honor our past while building a hopeful future for the school we love. As my second term as president comes to a close, I am deeply grateful for the trust you placed in me and for the many ways you chose to serve alongside me. I have great confidence and admiration for the alumni leaders who will follow us, and I am excited to experience how our alumni community continues to strengthen its bonds, uphold our Catholic and Jesuit identity, and serve as true men for others.

AMDG, José “Pep” López-Varela ‘87

500 Southwest 127th Avenue Miami, FL 33184