Our Year in Review

BUILDING ON TRADITION, SHAPING THE FUTURE

WORKING AS A COMMUNITY

MISSION STATEMENT

The Association shall act to promote unity and maintain a spirit of fellowship among the Alumni of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami, and serve as an ambassador to the community in an effort to advance the interests of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. The Association shall also foster and facilitate the involvement of its members in the various missions of the Society of Jesus, including spiritual, educational, and community service activities, to advance the credo “Men for Others.” Finally, the Association shall encourage fellow Alumni support of annual giving and other development programs of Belen Jesuit Preparatory School.

ALUMNI ASSOCIATION

BELEN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION OF JESUIT SCHOOLS FROM CUBA AND MIAMI

We are proud to present the third annual "Our Year in Review," offering a glimpse into the events, programs, and initiatives led by the Alumni Association from August 2024 to July 2025. This publication reflects the enduring spirit of the Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami, dedicated to serving Belen Jesuit and its alumni through meaningful engagement, lifelong learning, and lasting connections.

This year has been a testament to what we can accomplish together—celebrating milestones, expanding opportunities, and living our mission as Men for Others. As you turn these pages, you will see how our community continues to grow, give back, and honor the legacy that unites us.

Objectives

Celebrate & Preserve Our Legacy: Recognize milestones and achievements that inspire pride, deepen connections, and preserve the rich heritage of Belen Jesuit.

MEN FOR OTHERS

A guiding Jesuit principle that calls us to live with compassion, humility, and service. Being a man for others means using our gifts and talents to uplift those in need, striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.

Foster Meaningful Engagement: Strengthen relationships among alumni, students, and the broader Belen community through events, mentoring, and collaboration.

Empower Alumni Impact: Create opportunities for alumni to share expertise, open doors, and support initiatives that enhance the Belen experience for all.

Cultivate Jesuit Values in Action: Promote service, leadership, and spiritual growth, ensuring that “Men for Others” is more than a motto—it’s a lived commitment.

BUILDING ON TRADITION, SHAPING THE FUTURE

JOSÉ

LÓ PEZ-VARELA ‘87

This year, our Belen Alumni Association continued to grow, strengthening bonds rooted in brotherhood, service, and Jesuit values. We launched the Belen Alumni Community on WhatsApp, connecting thousands through shared experiences, and formed the Catholic Jesuit Identity Group to deepen our faith and live the Ignatian tradition daily.

The best is yet to come. AMDG

José López-Varela '87 is in his second year of his second term as President of the Alumni Association.

As I enter my final year as President of the Alumni Association, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to serve and witness the incredible spirit of our Belen brotherhood. This year has been nothing short of inspiring, with so many moments that reminded me of the strength of our community.

From the unforgettable Over the Top Gala, which raised record funds for our Financial Assistance Program, to the energy and camaraderie of the Rick Raimúndez ’90 Alumni Tailgate, we’ve continued to build on traditions that bring us together. The Grand Reunion Weekend for the 0’s and 5’s was a testament to the bonds that endure across decades, culminating in our Sunday Celebration at Belen. And, as always, the Father Sardiña Memorial Fishing Tournament brought alumni, family, and friends together for a cause that directly impacts future generations of Wolverines.

Each of these events, and the countless others throughout the year, reflects our shared commitment to being Men for Others. We have celebrated milestones, supported one another, and invested in the future of Belen Jesuit. I am excited for what lies ahead in my final year as President, and I am confident that the traditions we’ve strengthened will continue to grow and inspire for years to come.

THE TEAM

The Alumni Office is the heart of our alumni network, devoted to supporting and engaging Belen graduates from Miami and the Jesuit schools of Cuba. More than just organizers, they are bridge-builders—connecting generations, nurturing relationships, and creating opportunities for alumni to remain an active part of the Belen story. Each team member brings unique skills and passion to advancing our mission, ensuring that the bonds formed at Belen continue to grow long after graduation.

Responsible for overseeing alumni engagement, developing strategies to strengthen connections between alumni and the institution, and managing events and programs to foster a vibrant alumni community.

Responsible for managing and maintaining accurate alumni records, databases, and technology systems within the Alumni Association. Also, assists in planning, coordinating, and executing various events.

SUPPORT STAFF

CARLOS BRAVO ‘86 Executive Director

ROBERTO BORBOLLA '56 Content Editor

LUIS FERNÁNDEZ DE CASTRO '54 Volunteer

REINALDO RAMOS '58 Volunteer

CARLOS JIMÉNEZ ‘15 Data & Support Administrator

VICTORIA TRUJILLO (OLLA '24) Alumni Support Intern

ALUMNI BOARD

A group of distinguished alumni who provide visionary leadership to the Alumni Association of Jesuit Schools from Cuba and Miami. Drawing on their professional expertise and diverse experiences, board members offer strategic guidance, thoughtful counsel, and steadfast support to advance the association’s mission. Their role is pivotal in shaping engagement strategies, developing impactful programs, and fostering a vibrant, connected alumni community, ensuring the continued success and growth of both the association and Belen Jesuit.

JOSÉ LÓPEZ-VARELA ‘87 President

CARLOS HERNÁNDEZ ‘88 Vice President

LEO COSÍO ‘14 Secretary

THOMAS PLA ‘00 Treasurer

RAMÓN BRANGER ‘92 Board Member

VICENTE COSSÍO ‘72 Board Member

JOSÉ GÓMEZ ‘08 Board Member

ALEJANDRO GÓMEZ-PINA ‘93 Board Member

STEVEN HENRIQUES ‘99 Board Member

EDUARDO MACÍAS ‘02 Board Member

ALBERT PARADELA ‘11 Board Member

LUIS PÉREZ-CODINA ‘01 Board Member

CARLOS PÉREZ-ABREU ‘88 Board Member

CARLOS SUÁREZ ‘00 Board Member

ROGELIO RIBAS ‘83 Board Member

STAY CONNECTED

Keeping your contact information current is essential to staying connected with the Belen Alumni Association. If you’re not hearing from us, it is likely we have outdated information, here’s how to make sure you are in the loop:

BCONNECTED

Already have an account? Update your profile by clicking the arrow next to your profile image (top right) and selecting “Edit Profile.”

WEEKLY eNEWS

If you’re not receiving our weekly eNews (check your spam/junk folder), email alumni@belenjesuit. org with your preferred email address.

WHATSAPP COMMUNITY

A new, vibrant hub for quick updates, event reminders, and group discussions tailored to your interests. Inside the community, you’ll find dedicated groups that make it easy to stay informed and connected in real time. Currently, we have over 1,500 members and 33 groups.

ALUMNI MAGAZINE

Haven’t received an alumni magazine in the past year? We may have an outdated home address. Email alumni@belenjesuit.org with your current address to confirm.

SOCIAL MEDIA

• Instagram (4,682 followers): @belenalumni

• Facebook (2,388 followers): /belenalumni

• YouTube (174 subscribers): Belen Alumni Association

Updating your information also unlocks the many benefits of BConnected: Alumni Directory – Search by graduation year, university, industry, profession, and more.

Networking Opportunities – Post or browse job openings and connect with fellow alumni. Alumni Groups – Join communities built around shared classes, careers, sports, and interests.

Mentoring Pages – Offer guidance or find a mentor in your field.

For even more tools, visit the Alumni Resource Kit (ARK) at www.belenjesuit.org/ark and bookmark it for easy access.

Every update you share helps strengthen our network, keeps you informed, and ensures the Belen brotherhood remains connected for generations to come. 1 2 3 4 5

ANNUAL STATISTICS

By measuring alumni engagement, the association can assess its impact, plan meaningful initiatives, and cultivate a strong network, thereby enhancing the association's overall success and long-term sustainability.

BCONNECTED

8,407

5,218

Network Size Registered Users

2,296

Network Size Architecture, Construction, Real Estate, & Engineering Section ACRES

BALS

62%

Belen Alumni Lawyers Section

599

Network Size

BASH

Belen Alumni Section of Healthcare

662

Network Size

BEAMS

Belen Entertainment Arts & Media Section

898

Network Size

BITS

Belen Innovation Technology Section

783

Network Size

1,488

Network Size Section of Accounting, Finance, & Enterprise

For more information on professional sections, visit www.belenjesuit.org/alumni

WHY WE GIVE BACK

Giving back to Belen Jesuit is more than honoring where we came from, it is investing in where we are going. Every contribution of time , talent , or treasure directly impacts the young men walking the same halls we once walked.

Time fuels mentorship programs, service projects, and alumni events that shape future leaders and strengthen bonds across generations. Whether volunteering at a school event, speaking to a class, or serving on a committee, your presence sends a powerful message: Belen’s community is for life.

Talent empowers our students and fellow alumni through real-world expertise, career guidance, and innovative ideas. Sharing your knowledge —whether in a classroom, through a workshop, or by opening doors in your industry, creates opportunities that ripple far beyond campus.

Treasure sustains scholarships, improves facilities, and supports programs that keep Belen at the forefront of Jesuit education. From small monthly gifts to transformative major contributions, every dollar is a commitment to future generations.

When we give back, we do more than support a school, we reinforce the values that shaped us, ensure access for those who will follow, and strengthen the legacy we proudly share. Our collective generosity is what keeps the Belen spirit alive, vibrant, and ready to inspire Men for Others for years to come.

GIVING

Your generosity this year has strengthened our Jesuit, Catholic mission, shaping minds, nurturing faith, and ensuring that future generations will be formed in the same spirit of excellence and service that shaped us.

Jorge Pérez-Álvarez '76 Director of Giving

The Fund for Belen has grown stronger over the past five years t hanks to the consistent generosity of our alumni. This support fuels scholarships, strengthens facilities, and enriches the student experience. Just as important as the size of a gift is the act of participation, each alumnus who contributes helps preserve our Jesuit mission and ensures future generations benefit from the same tradition of excellence, faith , and service.

www.belenjesuit.org/alumnigiving

THE GRAND REUNION – A TRADITION REIMAGINED

"The Grand Reunion is one of my favorite weekends of the year—it’s where the spirit of Belen truly comes alive. Carlos Jiménez '15 and I especially enjoy our tradition of the ‘Bar Crawl,’ visiting each class at their Friday night happy hours to share a few laughs and reconnect, even if just for a few minutes. Then on Sunday, seeing everyone together on campus for Mass, lunch, and an afternoon in the Garrido Family Plaza reminds me why this tradition matters—it’s where friendships are renewed, families come together, and the bonds of Belen grow even stronger."

Carlos Bravo ‘86 Executive Director

The original plan was to launch our new milestone-year reunion format in June 2020, bringing together alumni from classes ending in the same number every five years. Then the pandemic happened. When it became possible to gather again, we adapted, determined to keep the vision alive. In 2021, we hosted the Grand Reunion Celebration over two days: the first day for the 0’s and 5’s, and the next for the 1’s and 6’s, maintaining the proper cycle. Despite the lingering effects of the pandemic, both celebrations were a resounding success.

Each June, the Belen campus becomes a meeting ground for generations, welcoming alumni from across the country and globe. The weekend blends nostalgia and new memories: Friday night happy hours, the ceremonial bricklaying for the most recent graduating class, Saturday class events, and the culminating Sunday at Belen Jesuit. This special day begins with Mass celebrated by Fr. Willie, S.J. ’87, followed by lunch in the dining hall, studentled campus tours, and a relaxed afternoon in the Garrido Family Plaza, complete with cigars, domino games, and a Kid Zone where alumni can enjoy the day with their families.

It’s more than a party, it’s a reaffirmation of who we are as a community. The Grand Reunion has become a bridge between eras, connecting seasoned graduates with young alumni and showing that, no matter how many years have passed, the bonds of Belen endure. This past summer’s celebration proved just how much alumni love this format, and excitement is already building for what’s in store next summer when the 1’s and 6’s take their turn.

OUR YEAR IN REVIEW

FALL: TOGETHER AGAIN

• Belen AVE returned with Jordi Orbay ’13 of Google DeepMind, diving into the world of reinforcement learning and large language models.

• BEAMS supported the "I Am Not a Poet" exhibition featuring the art of Arturo E. Mosquera ’00 †.

• Dedication and blessing of the Roberto Surís Athletic Center, including the unveiling of the new Sports Hall of Fame Interactive Wall.

• Alumni Tour in New York City with visits to Regis High School.

• BEAMS cultural series launch featuring Emmy and Grammy Award-winning composer Carlos Rafael Rivera ’89.

• Music program with Oscar Bustillo ’86 performing and discussing the creative process from composition to performance.

• SAFE networking lunch at John Martin’s Restaurant.

• The class of 2025 received their class rings at the Senior Ring Mass held at the Our Lady of Belen Chapel.

• ACRES hosted an expert panel on affordable housing development opportunities.

• The Rick Raimúndez ’90 Tailgate and Football

Game celebrated with food, music, and fellowship in the Garrido Family Plaza. Thank you to all the sponsors who made this event possible!

• Sagua Reunion

• Over the Top Gala raised over $571,000 for the Financial Assistance Program.

• Inaugural bottle release of The 1854 Blend at City Cigar Lounge in partnership with Maker’s Mark.

WINTER: GIVING BACK

• Reyes Magis Thanksgiving Drive provided meals, turkeys, and gift cards for the community at Gesu Catholic Church.

• Richard De Aguiar ’85 spoke to 8th graders on human dignity and the law.

• Manolis Tsavaris ’21 shared his experience at the U.S. Naval Academy with students.

• Advent Eucharistic Procession held on campus.

• Tombola Challenge kicked off to raise money for The Fund for Belen. Two alumni generously offered a matching gift of $55,000.

• 5th Annual Beyond Belen Mentorship & Networking Program connected over 100 alumni with students.

• Reyes Magis Toy Drive and distribution brought gifts to children of Gesu’s CCD program.

• Annual Alumni College Fair welcomed over 70 alumni currently in college to speak with students.

• Lacrosse Alumni Game, Cross Country Glory Mile, and Copa Wolverine soccer tournament brought athletes back to campus.

• Annual Basketball Reunion hosted at the Ignatian Center of the Arts Amphitheater.

• New giving option introduced for appreciated securities such as stocks.

• Alumni supported Juan FernándezBarquín ’01 at his investiture as Miami-Dade Clerk of the Court & Comptroller.

SPRING: THE POWER OF COMMUNITY

• The Alumni Tombola Challenge raised $710,858 from 1,318 donors, contributing to a recordbreaking Tombola total of $1.4 million for the Financial Assistance Program.

• Held our annual delegate meeting & board elections. Thank you Derek León '00 and Xabier Martínez-Cid '11 for your years of service!

• Thank you to all alumni who came out throughout various "Alumni Tours" in Bethesda, Maryland, as well as the ones who welcomed the Office of College Counseling with students at FL POLY, UF, FSU, UCF, USF, UTampa, and FGCU.

• Close Up program honored Pat Collins for 50 years of leadership and established the Patrick Collins Civics Scholarship.

• Belen Alumni Missions was introduced to the Alumni Association for Fall 2025.

• Belen Jesuit Hall of Fame inducted 10 individuals; José Toledo ’96 named Alumnus of the Year.

• SAFE hosted a joint networking happy hour with Lourdes, Carrollton, and Columbus alumni.

• LinkedIn Workshop and professional headshots prepared seniors for post-graduation success.

• 3rd Annual Pitch Competition highlighted student innovation and entrepreneurship.

• The Big Bang art event celebrated creative works from the Arturo E. Mosquera ’00 † collection.

• Reyes Magis and Jesuit Refugee Services partnered for a morning of service and reflection.

• Alumni works featured at the 42nd Miami Film Festival.

• Northern Trust Luncheon brought together over 100 alumni for networking.

• ACRES event at Miami Freedom Park Launch

Center shared project and bid opportunities.

• 1854 Day of Giving drew over 660 donors and raised more than $320,000.

• BALS Happy Hour in Wynwood featured guest speaker Juan Fernández-Barquín ’01.

SUMMER: FIN DEL AÑO

• Alumni Pin Ceremony welcomed the Class of 2025 into the Belen brotherhood, including the presentation of the class banner to the Class of 1975.

• Special recognition to alumni fathers whose sons graduated in the Class of 2025.

• Daniel Enrique Vilella ’25 honored as Brigadier and class speaker.

• Grand Reunion Weekend

• Happy Hour - Bar Crawl

• Class of 2024 Bricklaying Ceremony

• Individual Class Events

• Sunday at Belen

• BEAMS hosted a live performance by Oscar Bustillo ’86 inspired by the works of Arturo E. Mosquera ’00.

• Alumni supported career exploration through internships and job shadowing opportunities for students.

• Father Sardiña, S.J. Memorial Fishing Tournament and Dock Party raised funds for the Fr. Jorge Sardiña, S.J. ’45 Scholarship Fund.

• Dolores Reunion

• Celebration of the Feast of St. Ignatius of Loyola in the Our Lady of Belen Chapel

Photo Albums: https://belenalumni.smugmug.com/

2025 - 2026

SEPTEMBER 26

The Rick Raimúndez '90 Tailgate & Homecoming Game

DECEMBER 11

Beyond Belen Mentorship Program

DECEMBER 12

Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony

DECEMBER 20

Pickleball Tournament

JANUARY 24

Culinary Extravaganza

JANUARY 30 - FEBRUARY 1

Fr. Dorta-Duque, S.J. Memorial Tombola

MARCH 21

Belen Jesuit Hall of Fame Ceremony

MAY 6-7

Belen Jesuit Day of Giving

MAY 11

Father Izquierdo, S.J. Golf Tournament

MAY 18

Alumni Pin Ceremony

MAY 20

Commencement Exercises

MAY 30

Bricklaying Ceremony (Class of 2025)

MAY 31

Grand Reunion Celebration (1's and 6's)

JUNE 6

Father Sardiña, S.J. Fishing Tournament