10 Questions for 1 Alumnus
(This article was first published in the Belen Alumni Magazine - Winter 2026 edition.)
What was your experience like at Belen?
What was your experience like at Belen?
I had an incredible 6 years at Belen. I developed a holistic, interdisciplinary foundation that I have carried forward throughout my life. I made great friends, developed a strong work ethic, and became a well-rounded person. I cherish my years there.
Which teacher or coach inspired you and made a lasting impact on your life, and why?
The AP Human Geography class I took with Ms. Ann Kenna has had a lasting impact on me. One of the projects for that class involved exploring multiple neighborhoods across Miami-Dade and Broward Counties to observe cultural differences. That project opened my eyes to how diverse the neighborhoods in the area can be and is part of what motivates me to travel as much as I do. I attribute part of my curiosity about different cultures and what makes different areas unique to Ms. Kenna’s class.
What is one thing you will never forget that you learned at Belen?
The importance of AMDG. We should do all things for the greater glory of God.
How has your Jesuit education shaped you and helped you throughout your life?
The rich formative foundation that I got at Belen has helped me across my different endeavors in life. From the public speaking classes I took with Mr. Williams to the athletic experiences I had running track and cross country with Barq, I developed a strong foundation for life.
Technology changes fast. Which habits or mindsets—formed during your years at Belen—have helped you stay grounded and adaptable in such a rapidly evolving field
The educational environment at Belen truly pushed me to new heights. There was a higher bar of what was expected from us, and I believe it is part of the reason why I have developed a pursuit of excellence today. In all that I do, I strive to push higher and achieve greater results.
How are you helping to advance Belen Jesuit’s use of artificial intelligence?
I am currently helping Belen integrate AI into its operations by applying industry best practices. We are at an inflection point in history, with AI driving rapid change across sectors. Education is no exception. The use of AI in education has the potential to improve learning outcomes for students and support the mission of Belen. As a committee, we are working to equip Belen with an approach, framework, and guardrails for the ethical implementation of AI to advance student formation and achieve operational excellence as an institution.
AI can be a touchy subject in education. What would you say to those who believe we should stay away from it?
A calculated approach should be taken when applying AI in education. AI has the potential to help students learn in ways that cater to their specific needs, allow teachers to create more dynamic learning plans, and prepare students for a modern workforce where AI will be the norm. Companies are increasingly tying AI adoption to performance reviews and making it clear that employees who don’t adapt may find themselves left behind. These workforce changes need to be incorporated into education to set students up for success.
How would you envision AI
improving the lives of Belen students when they enter the workforce?
AI will be the great equalizer, allowing students to access and synthesize vast amounts of information in a short amount of time. They will be able to ideate and innovate faster than ever before. This will allow them to drive significant positive change in their organizations if they harness the technology correctly.
Is there a moment in your career when something you learned at Belen suddenly clicked and shaped a major decision you made in the tech space?
I don’t think there was a single dramatic moment, but Belen’s emphasis on being a man for others has influenced my decisions. It’s a reminder to use the gifts and blessings God has extended to us for the betterment of others, not just for our own gain.
What advice would you give to students interested in pursuing a career similar to yours?
Find a mentor. Regardless of what career you choose, having the right person or people in your corner will help you be successful in your space. Also, try to gain firsthand experience in the field that interests you as early as possible. Don’t wait until you are two or more years into an undergraduate program to work in your space. The sooner you do, the faster you can see if it’s actually what you want. Above all, seek the Lord’s guidance through prayer. May He lead you to where He wants you to be.
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.