St. John’s College Mobilizes Community in the Fight Against Cancer

In a powerful demonstration of its unwavering commitment to community engagement and the vital task of forming leaders who are dedicated to serving others, St. John’s College (SJC) recently embarked on a significant partnership with the Belize Cancer Society. This collaboration was centered around a month-long initiative focused on raising awareness, providing education, and inspiring action within the community regarding cancer prevention and treatment.

The collaboration featured a special episode of the Wildcat Connect Podcast, which welcomed the esteemed Mrs. Kim Simplis Barrow, who serves as the President of the Belize Cancer Society. In this enlightening conversation, hosted by Ms. Adelaide Sabido, who is the Head of Marketing & Communications at SJC, alongside co-host Ms. Margarita Blanco, from the Human Resources Department, the dialogue delved deep into the critical importance of breast cancer awareness. Mrs. Barrow emphasized not only the necessity of early detection but also the vital role of mobilizing community support in the fight against cancer. The discussion served as an inspiring platform for students, reinforcing the message that every voice can make a difference and that collective action can lead to significant change.

The partnership was vividly brought to life on campus through a dynamic "Wear Pink" fundraiser, an initiative thoughtfully launched by President Peralta. This event galvanized the entire college community, encouraging students, faculty, and staff to participate in a show of solidarity and support for those affected by cancer. The collective effort culminated in a heartfelt presentation to Mrs. Barrow, which was conducted by Dr. Fidel Pol, Headmaster of St. John’s College, along with Dr. Alexia Pol, associate dean of the University, and Dr. Solangel Alvarado, Dean of St. John’s College Junior College. Their presence underscored the importance of this initiative and the collective commitment of the college to the cause.

“What the SJC community has done is truly inspiring,” remarked Mrs. Barrow during her visit. “You’ve shown that compassion, leadership, and service are powerful tools in the fight against cancer. This contribution will directly support our awareness and patient outreach programs, enabling us to reach more individuals and provide them with the resources they need.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the tangible impact of their efforts.

This successful initiative underscores St. John’s College's enduring dedication to its Jesuit, Catholic mission of forming men and women for and with others. By uniting the campus community in a shared cause, SJC continues to build a future where awareness is met with concrete action, and service becomes a catalyst for saving lives. The college’s commitment to fostering a culture of empathy and proactive engagement is evident in such initiatives, and it serves as a model for other institutions aiming to make a meaningful difference in their communities.