A Place to Call Home

(This article was first published in the Belen Jesuit Alumni Magazine - Winter edition.)

I started my Belen journey back in 1978 as a 7th grader. My first three years, 7th through 9th grades, were at the Little Havana campus. The next three years, 10th through 12th grades, were at the then-new campus in Tamiami. I was in 10th grade in August of 1981 when the new Tamiami campus opened. I had such a great experience at Belen and I’m proud to be a member of the class of 1984. 

 

Fun fact: the class of 1984 was the only class to complete all three years of Jr. High school at the Little Havana campus and all three years of High school at the Tamiami campus. Both campuses were very different in terms of size and location. The Little Havana campus was much smaller and was located in an urban area. The Tamiami campus is much larger and is located in a suburban area. However, both were very similar because they were a home away from home for me. The dedicated Jesuits, faculty, and staff ensured we had everything we needed and made us feel like we were at home. Home is where a family lives and that is what I had at both campuses.  

 

After graduating from Belen, I attended FIU and received a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management. In 1995, I was blessed to marry the love of my life and soulmate, Irene. We have two great children, Adriana and Ricky ‘23.

 

In January 2017, I started a new journey and returned to Belen when I was hired as Executive Director of Facilities. I have now experienced Belen as a student, as a member of the staff and as a parent. I am also looking forward to being a Belen grandparent someday.  Since then, I have been honored to oversee many construction projects that have truly transformed our campus over the last seven years. These projects include the expansion of the Sarría Family Dining Hall, the Gian Zumpano Aquatic Center, The Arroyo Quad, the Our Lady of Belen Chapel, the Roberto C. Goizueta Innovation Center and the remodeling of 36 classrooms. Current projects include the Roberto Surís Athletic Center and the remodeling of the baseball fields. As a staff member, I have an extra sense of duty to ensure the Belen experience continues for many generations. I am very appreciative and blessed to be part of the Belen Community.  Mom and Dad, thank you very much for your sacrifice and sending me to Belen.