Alumnus of the Year 2024 Announced

Roberto Surís is a member of the Belen Jesuit class of 1979. In 2019, the vision for a new athletic center on campus led to a conversation with Roberto and from that moment, a passion to see the project come to fruition was ignited. In 2022, the groundbreaking was held for the Roberto Suris Athletic Center and the dream started to form into reality. Now, weeks away from the completion of the athletic center, we are excited to announce that Roberto Surís is the 2024 Alumnus of the Year.

“In the tapestry of my life, Belen stands as the sacred thread, woven with the bonds of friendship and brotherhood,” said Surís. “Together, we were held in the embrace of love and compassion, guided not only by earthly mentors but also by the presence of Jesus, whose teachings echoed through the halls. Through their spiritual guidance and unwavering support, our priests and teachers became pillars of strength, shaping our academic years and the rest of our lives, imbuing us with the values we now impart to our families.”

Roberto’s story begins like many of his Belen brothers. Born in Cuba to a successful publishing family, his parents' and siblings' lives were uprooted when Fidel Castro took power, and the family business was confiscated. The family arrived in Miami in the early 1960s. Faith in the Lord kept his parents focused. In 1974, Roberto started in the 9th grade at Belen’s “East” Campus, then located on “Calle Ocho” and 7th Avenue. He made many lifelong friendships there with whom he still shares his life today.  He succeeded in his studies, lettered in his sports and, his senior year, was named “King of the Dust Bowl.” 

After college, Roberto’s thirst for success led him to expand into the multifamily development market. By 2005 and 2006, he had purchased, designed and either built or sold over 27 multifamily projects, always drawing on the deep relationships and inspirations he acquired during high school. In 2011, Roberto created The Estate Companies, a vertically integrated real estate development and general contracting operation with a focus on the institutional, highly amenitized multifamily rental market. Roberto has achieved great success and has built close to 9,000 units in more than 35 uniquely exquisite projects throughout the tri-county area. Remembering his roots, The Estate Companies’ management team is highly composed of other Belen graduates.

Roberto’s biggest influence and best friend has always been his father, from whom he learned to be faithful, committed and ethical. All these life-shaping qualities of faith, honesty, integrity and respect were reinforced by his mentors and peers during his Belen years.

“What began as a conversation with a Belen alumnus about helping his alma mater with the athletic project, has flourished into a friendship fueled by a common love of God and Belen Jesuit,” said Fr. Guillermo M. García-Tuñón, S.J. ‘87. “In the years I have gotten to know Roberto, he has demonstrated his commitment to the place he recognizes had such a strong impact on his life. He is a true example of what it is to be a Belen alumnus.”

In honor of this recognition, a digital billboard will be on display showcasing Roberto on the Palmetto & Coral Way from April 1 to April 21, 2024.