Iron Sharpens Iron: Ignatian Speaker Series
(This article was first published in the Belen Alumni Magazine - Winter 2026 edition.)
This past fall, the school administration drew inspiration from this year’s theme, “Iron Sharpens Iron,” to debut the inaugural speaker series. Three talented and dynamic speakers were invited not only to speak to students during the school day, but also to parents and members of the community.
This past fall, the school administration drew inspiration from this year’s theme, “Iron Sharpens Iron,” to debut the inaugural speaker series. Three talented and dynamic speakers were invited not only to speak to students during the school day, but also to parents and members of the community.
The Ignatian Speaker Series kicked off with a powerful presentation by Matthew Bocchi to parents in honor of Red Ribbon Week. Matt spoke openly and honestly about loss, trauma, addiction, and recovery. During the day, 10th-12th-grade students were deeply moved by Mr. Bocchi’s presentation and his powerful story of loss, addiction, and redemption. His inspiring words provided a critical lesson on living fully - with faith, hope and purpose.
On November 3, Jason Evert spoke to the Belen community and shared guidelines for supporting your child’s chastity. From setting clear standards to building positive relationship habits with your son, Jason gave us a roadmap for creating a healthy, strong bond between children and parents.
The Iron Sharpens Iron Ignatian Speaker Series concluded on December 3rd with an impactful presentation by Dr. Alex Kor. Dr. Kor shared his parents’ Holocaust survival stories and the message of forgiveness his mother carried into the world until her passing. His powerful and deeply emotional presentation captivated the audience and left a lasting impression, especially on the students present. He reminded us of the importance of understanding history in upholding human dignity.
We look forward to making the speaker series an annual event.
BELEN JESUIT PREPARATORY SCHOOL
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: communications@belenjesuit.org
500 SW 127th Avenue, Miami, FL 33184
phone: 305.223.8600 | fax: 305.227.2565 | email: communications@belenjesuit.org
Belen Jesuit Preparatory School was founded in 1854 in Havana, Cuba, by Queen Isabel II of Spain. The task of educating students was assigned to the priests and brothers of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), whose teaching tradition is synonymous with academic excellence and spiritual discipline. In 1961, the new political regime of Cuba confiscated the school's property and expelled the Jesuit faculty. The School was re-established in Miami the same year, and over the next decade, continued to grow. Today, Belen Jesuit is situated on a 34-acre site in western Dade County, just minutes away from downtown Miami.