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At St. John's College, our mission has always extended beyond the confines of the classroom walls, reaching into the very fabric of society and the lives of individuals. As a distinguished Jesuit institution, we are deeply committed to the formation of men and women who are not only knowledgeable but also compassionate and socially responsible—leaders who will utilize their education, faith, and empathy to enact meaningful transformations in the world around them. This commitment to holistic education emphasizes the importance of developing not just intellectual capabilities but also moral and ethical frameworks that guide our students in their personal and professional lives. In late June, SJC President Dr. Mirtha A. Peralta had the esteemed honor of joining fellow presidents from the Association of Jesuit Colleges and Universities (AJCU) for a private audience with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. This gathering was not merely a ceremonial occasion; it was a significant moment of reflection and dialogue about the future of Jesuit education and its role in addressing the pressing challenges facing our global community. Reflecting on this extraordinary encounter, Dr. Peralta shared her thoughts, stating: "Meeting Pope Leo XIV was a profound and humbling experience. His message reinforced that our responsibility as educators transcends the traditional goal of merely preparing students for successful careers in their respective fields. Instead, we are called to foster the development of thoughtful leaders who approach every challenge with wisdom, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to the common good. This vision of education as a transformative force continues to guide our work at St. John's College, inspiring us to cultivate an environment where critical thinking and ethical decision-making are paramount." We invite you to delve deeper into Pope Leo XIV's insightful message to the AJCU presidents, which underscores the shared commitment of Jesuit higher education to the principles of faith, justice, and service. This message serves as a reminder of the vital role that educational institutions play in shaping not only the minds but also the hearts of future generations, encouraging them to engage actively in their communities and advocate for social change. 🔗 Read more about Pope Leo XIV's message and the ongoing commitment to Jesuit values in higher education.

In Punta Gorda, innovation, opportunity, and inspiration converged as the Saint John's College Junior College and University Summer Camp empowered young learners with the knowledge and confidence needed to excel in a changing world. Through Digital Discovery, participants unleashed their creativity by delving into technology, digital tools, and emerging innovations. In Skills for Success, they honed vital life and career skills, including leadership, communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and professionalism, preparing them for success beyond the classroom. The Tourism & Hospitality track immersed students in one of Belize's most dynamic industries, providing hands-on experiences and practical insights into customer service, cultural heritage, and career pathways. The camp served as a launchpad for future leaders, innovators, and professionals eager to shape their communities and embrace new opportunities.

On Wednesday, we celebrated the conclusion of our Mandarin Program for Semester II at St. John’s College. This event marked a significant milestone in a journey that began as a modest offering and has now evolved into a highly sought-after course. The Mandarin Program has expanded into multiple sections, reflecting the strong interest from our students. Through consistent engagement, including scholarship information sessions, our students are not only learning a new language but are also preparing themselves for a variety of global opportunities. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this program. A special thank you goes to our Ambassador H.E. Amino C.Y. Chi, whose continued support and partnership have opened doors for our students. We would also like to recognize Ms. Heidi Hsiao, whose dedication and passion have been instrumental in transforming this program into a thriving and impactful experience for our students. To our faculty, organizers, and especially our students, thank you. Your commitment and enthusiasm are what make initiatives like this truly meaningful. At St. John’s College, we remain dedicated to forming men and women for and with others, equipping them to engage the world with confidence and purpose. We look forward to continuing this journey of growth and learning in the future.

Today, St. John’s College Aviation students, accompanied by members of the Media Team, embarked on an extraordinary journey into the world of storm science at the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport. This was not merely a field trip; it was a unique opportunity to engage with the renowned Hurricane Hunters. The experience provided our students with a front-row seat to the remarkable work of these dedicated professionals. The atmosphere was charged with energy as the roar of the aircraft engines resonated through the air, symbolizing a mission far greater than just flying. While many seek refuge from storms, these brave individuals venture directly into their heart to safeguard communities. Our students did more than observe; they actively engaged, posed questions, and envisioned their futures. Standing mere inches away from the aircraft that penetrate hurricane eyewalls, the barriers of the traditional classroom faded away. The possibilities that lie ahead felt more tangible than ever before. Experiences like these ignite curiosity, instill courage, and cultivate the next generation of leaders in aviation and beyond. They are a testament to our commitment to providing enriching educational opportunities that inspire our students to chase knowledge and embrace bold challenges. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our facilitators and chaperones who made this experience possible: Ms. Adelaide Sabido, Marketing and Communications Ms. Natalie Alamina, Aviation Management Lecturer Mr. Frank Tench, Alum HS ’74 JC ’76 Additionally, we express our sincere gratitude to the Hurricane Hunters for their visit to Belize and for generously providing this incredible learning opportunity to our students and other institutions. Your dedication continues to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals and scientists. Here’s to the pursuit of knowledge, the embrace of bold opportunities, and the excitement of navigating through storms along the way.

The University Lecture Hall was charged with inspiration and energy as we proudly hosted our Networking for Growth and Impact event! This gathering was not just an occasion; it was a resounding success that brought together aspiring minds and seasoned professionals in a vibrant atmosphere. It was a true pleasure to witness the meaningful connections formed between our SJCJC business students and industry veterans, each interaction brimming with potential and opportunity. This mixer was, without a doubt, a masterclass in professional excellence, where knowledge was exchanged, ideas were sparked, and collaborations were born. During the event, our students had the unique opportunity to explore the strategic nuances of local economic development, gaining insights into how businesses can thrive within their communities while contributing to the overall growth of the region. They delved into the meticulous art of event planning, learning the intricacies involved in organizing successful gatherings that not only attract attendees but also foster networking and relationship-building. Furthermore, they engaged with the concept of creative entrepreneurship, specifically through the lens of the modern coffee house, understanding how such establishments can serve as hubs for innovation and social interaction. Above all, they learned the mastery of using passion as a secret ingredient to represent Belize so masterfully on the world stage, showcasing the rich culture and entrepreneurial spirit that defines our nation. A heartfelt thank you is extended to our distinguished guests who generously invested their time and expertise in nurturing the next generation of business leaders. Their presence and participation were invaluable to the success of this event: Ms. Melecia McDougall – Belize City Council, whose insights into local governance and community engagement provided our students with a deeper understanding of how public policy can influence business opportunities. Mr. Eros Dawson – Bake’d Artisan Bakery & Coffee House, who shared his journey of transforming a simple idea into a thriving business, illustrating the importance of creativity and quality in entrepreneurship. Ms. Samantha Bradley – The Party Planner, who offered her expertise in event management and marketing, emphasizing the significance of branding and customer experience in today’s competitive market. Chef Sean Kuylen – Chef Sean Kuylen Catering, who inspired students with his culinary artistry and commitment to excellence, demonstrating how passion and dedication can elevate a brand and create a lasting impact. Their stories of resilience, innovation, and leadership provided our students with a powerful blueprint for success in Belize’s evolving economy. Each narrative underscored the importance of adaptability and forward-thinking in a world that is constantly changing. We also extend our gratitude to our dedicated lecturers and enthusiastic students for bringing the curiosity, professionalism, and ambition that made this synergy possible. Your engagement and eagerness to learn were palpable, contributing to an enriching experience for everyone involved. The future of Belizean business is indeed bright — and it’s being built right here, within the walls of our university and through the connections fostered during events like these. Together, we are shaping a new generation of leaders who will drive innovation, inspire change, and contribute to the sustainable growth of our economy.

With hearts full of gratitude and pride, the Board of Trustees of St. John’s College, alongside the President, Administration, Faculty, Staff, and Students, warmly congratulates Fr. Andrew R. Kirschman, SJ, on his appointment as Provincial Superior of the Jesuits USA Central and Southern Province. On February 18, 2026, Very Reverend Arturo Sosa, SJ, Superior General of the Society of Jesus, entrusted Fr. Kirschman with this sacred responsibility, following a prayerful and consultative process across the Province. He will officially assume office on July 31, 2026, the Feast of Ignatius of Loyola, a day that calls Jesuits to a renewed commitment to mission, service, and courageous leadership. Since 2018, Fr. Kirschman has faithfully served as Novice Director, guiding and forming young Jesuits with wisdom, humility, and steadfast devotion. His leadership reflects the very spirit of discernment and generosity that defines Jesuit life. As we celebrate this new chapter, we also extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude to Fr. Thomas P. Greene, SJ, who has faithfully served as Provincial since July 31, 2020. His tenure has been marked by strength, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to the Jesuit mission. The impact of his leadership will continue to resonate across the Province and in the many communities it serves. We invite our entire community to join us in prayerful support of Fr. Kirschman as he prepares to lead and to offer heartfelt thanksgiving for Fr. Greene’s generous and faithful service. May God bless them both abundantly as they continue to serve the Church and the mission entrusted to the Society of Jesus.

As Belize commemorates 175 years of Jesuit presence and mission, St. John’s College was deeply honored to welcome the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, the Very Rev. Arturo Sosa, S.J., on his first official visit to the nation. His presence marked a historic moment for the College, the wider Jesuit community, and the nation, as he presided over a special Mass celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the Society of Jesus in Belize. For 175 years, the Jesuits have walked alongside the people of Belize, shaping the nation’s spiritual, educational, and social landscape. Through the establishment of churches and schools across the country, the Society of Jesus has fostered communities of faith, learning, and solidarity. St. John’s College stands proudly as one of the most enduring expressions of that Jesuit mission, alongside sister parishes and apostolates including St. Peter Claver, St. Martin de Porres, and St. John Vianney. A highlight of the Very Reverend Arturo Sosa’s liturgical celebration was the rededication of Fordyce Chapel, the spiritual heart of the SJC campus. For generations, the chapel has served as a sacred space for prayer, discernment, celebration, and quiet encounter with God. Its rededication symbolizes the renewal of a sacred trust and reaffirms the College’s commitment to forming students in body, mind, and spirit. At St. John’s College, education remains rooted in faith and inspired by the Jesuit tradition of service to others. Fr. Sosa’s presence at St. John’s College marked a profound spiritual, historical, and institutional milestone. His visit came at a moment of great national significance as Belize celebrates the 175th anniversary of a legacy that has shaped the spiritual, educational, and social fabric of our nation for nearly two centuries. His visit during this historic anniversary year was a powerful affirmation of the enduring Jesuit commitment to Belize and its people. His presence was made even more meaningful as St. John’s College also begins its 140th Anniversary celebrations, initiating a milestone year rooted in the same Jesuit tradition of service and mission. St. John’s College expresses its deepest appreciation to the Very Reverend Arturo Sosa, S.J., for his pastoral leadership, prayerful accompaniment, and witness to faith and mission. His visit will remain a moment of lasting significance for the College and for Belize. As the institution embarks on its 140th Anniversary Year, it does so strengthened in Jesuit identity and renewed in its commitment to faith, excellence, and service. The College extends heartfelt gratitude to its Jesuit community, administrators, faculty, staff, and campus teams whose dedication and collaborative spirit made this historic celebration possible. Their efforts reflect the shared mission that continues to define St. John’s College after 140 years. May God continue to bless the Society of Jesus, the nation of Belize, and St. John’s College as together they journey in faith and service to others. In keeping with established protocol, the College respectfully refrained from publicizing the visit until after his departure.

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.

St. John’s College Junior College proudly hosted its Annual Social Justice Forum on Thursday, October 23rd, at the well-known Landivar Gymnasium, a venue that has become synonymous with engaging discussions and transformative ideas. This year, the forum was centered around the thought-provoking theme “Caring for Our Common Home.” This theme resonates deeply in today’s world, where environmental issues and social justice are increasingly intertwined, prompting urgent conversations about our collective responsibility towards the planet and each other. This year’s keynote speaker, the esteemed Senator Janelle Chanona , who also serves as the Vice President of Oceana Belize , captivated the audience with her inspiring and timely address. She spoke passionately about the critical importance of environmental stewardship and social responsibility in the context of global challenges such as climate change, pollution, and the degradation of natural resources. Drawing from the profound insights of Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’ , Senator Chanona urged students to engage in deep reflection regarding their roles as caretakers of creation. She emphasized the necessity of listening to both “the cry of the earth and the cry of the poor,” highlighting the interconnectedness of ecological and social issues. In her address, Senator Chanona emphasized that genuine and lasting change begins with a foundation built on awareness, compassion, and decisive action. These values, she noted, are deeply rooted in our Jesuit mission of forming men and women for and with others . Her powerful message encouraged students to expand their understanding of environmental care, urging them to view it not merely as an ecological issue but as a profound moral and spiritual responsibility. This call to action was framed as a challenge to respond with empathy and purpose, recognizing that each individual has a role to play in fostering a sustainable future. The forum itself created a vibrant space for meaningful dialogue and reflection , where students were invited to engage in discussions that challenged them to consider how their daily choices and lifestyles impact both the planet and their immediate communities. It was a moment of collective discernment, encouraging participants to live out the Ignatian principles of justice, sustainability, and cura personalis (care for the whole person). This emphasis on holistic care underscores the importance of nurturing not only the environment but also the well-being of individuals and communities. More than just an academic event, this year’s Social Justice Forum served as a powerful reminder that “caring for our common home” is an act of faith, service, and solidarity. It is a commitment that lies at the heart of the Ignatian vision for a more just and compassionate world. The discussions sparked during the forum encourage ongoing reflection and action, inspiring participants to carry the insights gained into their daily lives. As students left the Landivar Gymnasium, they were not only equipped with knowledge but also motivated to become advocates for change, embodying the principles of social justice and environmental stewardship in their own communities.

Continuing its tradition of academic excellence and social relevance, St. John’s College University hosted another engaging session of its Distinguished Lecture Series this past Wednesday evening. The lecture featured Mr. Dean Flowers, President of the Public Service Union of Belize, who delivered an insightful presentation on “Managing Labor Relations.”  Drawing from his extensive experience in Belize’s public sector, Mr. Flowers offered practical perspectives on the challenges and opportunities within the labor landscape. He emphasized that effective labor relations extend beyond negotiation—they are grounded in dialogue, fairness, and mutual respect, and serve to build trust while promoting the common good. Students were encouraged to consider how leadership, ethics, and empathy should guide decision-making, reflecting the Jesuit mission to form men and women for others. The lecture prompted deep reflection on how future leaders can contribute to a more just and equitable Belize, guided by Ignatian principles of justice, service, and care for the whole person. Once again, the Distinguished Lecture Series provided a vital platform for academic inquiry, civic engagement, and moral reflection, exemplifying St. John’s College University’s commitment to education that transforms both minds and hearts.

Students from St. John’s College Junior College  recently experienced the vibrant sights, sounds, and flavors of Taiwan—without ever leaving Belize. Holding symbolic “Taiwan Passports,” students embarked on a cultural journey that brought Taiwanese traditions to life right on campus. The event offered an immersive introduction to Taiwanese culture, language, and cuisine. From delicious dumplings and refreshing bubble tea to the laughter-filled Night Market Mahjong Bingo , participants experienced the lively atmosphere of a Taipei night market. Every activity, from writing their names in Mandarin to drawing Taiwan’s flag, encouraged authentic engagement and appreciation of a different culture. Guided by YiYing Hsiao (M. Heidi) , Mandarin instructor at SJCJC, the event served as a meaningful opportunity to build bridges of friendship and understanding. Through hands-on activities, students gained deeper insight into Taiwanese customs and the joy of cultural exchange. The experience reminded students that learning a language goes beyond the classroom—it is also about discovering new ways of seeing the world and connecting with others. T his celebration of culture, curiosity, and connection exemplified SJCJC’s commitment to forming globally aware students who value diversity, dialogue, and mutual respect.

On October 1, 2025, the St. John’s College (SJC) community in Belize came together in an inspiring display of faith, unity, and service through the Wildcat Lighthouse Movement—a social ride and walk dedicated to raising funds for Catholic Primary Schools across Belize. The event marked the culmination of an extraordinary journey by Fr. Matthew Ruhl, SJ, who, since July 15th, had been cycling across the United States from Portland, Maine, to the Santa Monica Pier in California. His 12-week, cross-country mission to support Catholic education inspired the SJC community to take action locally, joining him in spirit by organizing a parallel ride and walk that made a tangible impact in Belize. Starting at the historic Baron Bliss Lighthouse and concluding at the SJC Campus, participants of all ages, students, parents, faculty, alumni, and community partners, walked and rode together in solidarity. The event was family-friendly and non-competitive, emphasizing community spirit, generosity, and the Ignatian ideal of being “men and women for and with others.” At the campus, a special ceremony blessed the participants and recognized sponsors whose contributions helped make the event possible. Simultaneously, SJC featured live coverage of Fr. Ruhl’s arrival at the Santa Monica Pier, symbolically linking both ends of the continent through one shared Jesuit mission. Funds raised from the Wildcat Lighthouse Movement will directly support the educational needs of students in Catholic Primary Schools throughout Belize providing essential resources and fostering opportunities for a brighter future. Through this event, St. John’s College once again demonstrated its deep commitment to community engagement, faith in action, and the transformative power of Jesuit education. The Wildcat Lighthouse Movement illuminated not only the Belizean coast but also the enduring light of solidarity and hope that guides all Jesuit institutions around the world.