The 1854 Belen Gala was a huge success! Over a thousand members of the Belen community came together for an evening of fun and camaraderie to raise funds for the Financial Assistance Program. Over $350,000 in net proceeds were raised thanks to the gala sponsors, underwriters, attendees, auction participants, and generous donations.
The Watsco Center at the University of Miami was transformed and decked out in disco glam. Everything from the dance floor to the decor on the tables to the digital signage showcased Belen and honored our tradition of excellence. Guests enjoyed delicious food, Bacardi drinks and danced the night away to music by Tropics Entertainment.
“It goes without saying, we’ve come a long way since the brave Jesuits made the tumultuous journey to Miami and the humble beginnings of our school when we first arrived in 1961,” said Fr. Willie, S.J. ‘87. “In no small way should it be overlooked that the success of Belen is
because of our community - our amazing alumni, supportive parents, great faculty and staff, and, of course, our dedicated students. I have no doubt that with your continued support, Belen will indeed last forever.”
Planning the gala is done over the course of several months under the direction of Rebeca Lowell, Event Coordinator. During that time, there have been many parents, friends, and benefactors who have been working with the school’s Advancement Office to make sure our Gala is successful. In particular, thanks to this year’s Gala Chairs Claudia Navarro and Patty Paredes; Auction Chairs Alina León, Cary Falero, Monica Antún, Patty Franyie, and Karla Handal; Program Book Chairs Teresita Caraballo, Alejandra Gentzschein, and Christina Gómez-Pina and alumnus Raúl Rodríguez ‘95 whose vision reimagined this arena for this special evening. Without their tireless efforts, the gala would not have been possible.
“I’m grateful to the army of volunteers that helped to make the 1854 Belen Gala so incredibly special,” said Rebeca Lowell, Event Coordinator. “We are already envisioning next year’s gala. Stay tuned for more information before the end of the school year.”