in the mid-80s to the Illinois State Tournament Sweet Sixteen. Although Mike was living in Tampa, he kept track of Frank’s teams and their success. “I could feel the influence he had on his players and students.” Sadly, Frank passed away in April of 2016. In 2017, Carmel started its annual alumni basketball game in Frank’s honor, and former players from all eras have returned annually since. Later that year, Mike attended his 40-year reunion in Mundelein. “I was so happy to re-connect. I had been connected with some through Facebook, but to attend and have conversations was great.
Mike Belmont ’77 Although Mike Belmont ’77 has lived in Florida for 37 years, his connection to Carmel Catholic remains strong. “My parents sacrificed a great deal to allow all of us to go to Catholic schools,” said Belmont. The five children of Frank Sr. and Mildred all attended Immaculate Conception in Waukegan before he and his brothers (Frank Jr. ’71 and John ’84) came to Carmel and two sisters attended Holy Child High School in Waukegan. Mike then attended Marquette, studying Journalism and Political Science, worked in municipal and real estate finance for several years after graduation, and has now spent decades in the Florida home building industry. Since 2008 he has served as President of Minto Communities and is currently responsible for the management and oversight of its U.S. operations. Minto has been developing master planned communities and building homes in Florida for over four decades and builds more than 1,200 homes a year. These 55 and over adult communities have recently expanded to Daytona, Hilton Head and Panama Beach City. Mike’s brother, Frank, was a staple in Carmel history as a teacher, head boys basketball coach and Athletic Director. He led his teams
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That’s when Mike decided he wanted to do more. Motivated by the sacrifice his parents had made decades ago, Mike wanted to help make it easier on other families. He made a very generous donation and started the Frank Belmont Memorial Scholarship in honor of his brother. The scholarship is awarded annually and alumni players are invited to donate toward the scholarship.
“I’m fortunate to be able to celebrate Frank’s memory by supporting Carmel and Catholic education.” Mike hopes that Carmel will continue its academic priorities and is happy to help students maintain a high level of education. When asked what advice he would have for Carmel students, he said through a chuckle, “Study harder than I did!”