Ignatian Educator Of The Year Named

Dr. Matthew Jordan '08 has been selected by his peers as the second recipient of the Beatriz Jiménez Ignatian Educator of the Year Award. He is celebrating his eighth year at Belen Jesuit. During his tenure, he has served as Dean of Student Activities, Student Council Moderator, Social Studies teacher, and currently as Director of Faculty Development.

“We are so happy to name Dr. Matthew Jordan as the recipient of the Beatriz Jiménez Ignatian Educator Award,” said José E. Roca ‘84, principal. “The award was named for Mrs. Beatriz Jiménez. She served our community for 34 years as a teacher, chairperson and administrator. She was a role model for all of us and demonstrated how a faith-filled person gives the MAGIS for the Greater Glory of God. Dr. Jordan is also a faith-filled person who embodies the principles of an Igantian Educator and puts forth maximum effort in all that he does. He has excelled in every role he has undertaken at Belen. He shares his faith, knowledge, and abilities with his students and colleagues.”  

Announced during the Mass of the Holy Spirit on August 25, the award was presented to him by Fr. Willie García-Tuñón, S.J. '87 and Mr. Roca ‘84. The Mass is the first of the academic year and is a tradition among Jesuit academic institutions dating to 1548, in which the community gathers to thank God for the gifts of creation and salvation and to seek the guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit in the coming year.

“Teaching at a school like Belen is a gift, not only because I can share my knowledge and faith, but because I am part of a team of individuals dedicated to forming young men to grow to give their best for God’s greater glory,” said Dr. Jordan. “Whether it’s on the court, field, or in the classroom, we all have a role to play in helping students achieve their magis and realize their potential. Being named by my peers for this award is incredibly humbling. I am grateful and blessed to work with, and learn from, such passionate educators who are so dedicated to their vocation.”

The Beatriz Jiménez Ignatian Educator of the Year Award is selected annually and given to a member of the faculty or staff who exemplifies the profile of an Ignatian Educator. The educator serves as a guide with and for students on their formational journeys at Belen Jesuit. The Ignatian Educator engages in ongoing personal, professional and religious development in order to sustain a vibrant community committed to the mission of Jesuit education. 

Click here to watch the Mass and award presentation. Click here to view the photo album.