Why I Give Back

(This article first appeared in the Belen Jesuit President's Report, 2020-21 edition)

“No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted” (Aesop). I did not have to think twice when I was asked to share my thoughts of why giving back to Belen Jesuit Preparatory School is important to me; it was an easy “Yes.” This was my opportunity, as a woman, to express my gratitude to Belen and explain why I choose to give back.

I have many fond memories of Belen. Looking back and reflecting a plethora of images flash through my mind: yearly Tómbolas, homecoming, dances, proms, masses, football games, regattas, and graduation. I can truly say Belen has been present in my life for forty-nine years, both as a young girl, when I visited as a teenager with my older brothers who would watch me like a hawk, ensuring no other boy would talk to me, and today as a woman, a proud wife, mother, and aunt.

My father, José Rodríguez, attended El Colegio de Belén in Cuba. My older brothers, José Rodríguez ‘80 and Jorge Rodríguez ‘84 attended Belen Jesuit in Miami as did my nephews Pablo Rodríguez ‘11 and Alfonso Martínez Padrón ‘16. My husband, Jorge Padrón Sr. ‘86, and our son Jorge Padrón Jr. ‘16 are also Belen alumni. The legacy of Belen graduates in my family is monumental. I have had the honor of witnessing tremendous growth and accomplishments through the efforts of the Belen community. Our family is a product of the grit and determination Belen has instilled in shaping respectful gentlemen. My husband and I are so proud of our son, Jorge Jr., a Belen and Babson College alumnus. His hard work and determination have enabled him to set and accomplish goals and stay humble while completing them. Belen played an instrumental part in this.

Personally, the gratitude I have for this institution is immense. It has been evident in my life that Belen truly embodies the phrase, “Men for Others.”  In my parents’ most difficult financial moments, Belen never wavered in their support for my brothers’ education. The school never turned its back on my family.  My father, May he Rest in Peace, was always so grateful for the education and for the spiritual learnings that surrounded my brothers. Education is a privilege that should not be taken for granted. Giving back is the greatest act of grace; it provides an opportunity for those in need to create and establish legacies. This is the grace that once was bestowed upon my family. 

I ask anyone reading this today to pause and reflect. Stop and remember that Belen Jesuit needs you and your philanthropy to continue to exist for the present and future boys. Pause and remind yourself how serving others truly feels. “For it is in giving that we receive,” said Francis of Assisi. Sometimes, it is in the smallest moments or acts that you find peace. Giving back, for me, has represented many volunteer hours heading the Annual Gala and raising hundreds and thousands of dollars for the financial assistance program. Truly giving back has always been the most rewarding and amazing time for me. Providing financial support to families who experience hardship, in order to assist their sons to continue their education at Belen, is the most altruistic way of life.

Life has come full circle; the fact that my husband and I can give back to Belen is very important to us. Our core values, helping others, were taught to us by both of our parents. “Men for others” is a timeless mission statement. As a woman, I believe “time” is the most valuable currency we have. Please, make the Time and GIVE BACK today.