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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.

In partnership with Lions Club International , St. John’s College High School  hosted a transformative Mental Health Workshop  designed to equip more than 40 student leaders with the tools to promote wellness, empathy, and compassion within their student-led organizations. The session provided a meaningful space for reflection, connection, and dialogue—encouraging participants to explore what it means to lead with both mind and heart. Through guided activities and discussions, students gained valuable insight into the importance of mental well-being, not only for themselves but also for those they serve and represent. The workshop underscored an essential truth about leadership: true leadership begins with a healthy mind and a caring heart. It is built on understanding, respect, and the commitment to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. A heartfelt thank-you is extended to the school counselors , whose guidance and dedication made this event possible. Their support continues to empower SJC students to grow as compassionate leaders who embody the Ignatian values of care, service, and community. Together, St. John’s College High School continues to build a community that leads with empathy, strength, and heart.

On September 19, 2025, St. John’s College Junior College (SJCJC) and Tropic Air signed a Memorandum of Understanding to continue supporting the dreams of aspiring Belizean aviators through the Howell Grange Aviation Scholarship. Generously sponsored by Tropic Air, this scholarship covers 50% of tuition and fees over two years for recipients pursuing aviation studies. Named in honor of Captain Howell Grange and his heroic in-flight actions, the scholarship aims to open doors for the next generation of aviation leaders in Belize. This year’s recipient, Abner Tun, distinguished himself with a 3.71 GPA and an Associate’s degree in Business with a concentration in Aviation Management. Abner will now continue his academic journey toward a Bachelor’s in Aviation Management at St. John’s College University, building on the strong foundation provided by this scholarship. SJCJC celebrates Abner’s accomplishments and extends sincere gratitude to Tropic Air for its ongoing commitment to nurturing the future of aviation in Belize. Through initiatives like the Howell Grange Aviation Scholarship, St. John’s continues to empower students to achieve their dreams and soar to new heights.

What began as a dream at St. John’s College in Belize has now blossomed into a proud reality. The Landivar Campus recently came alive with joy and gratitude as the College celebrated its first White Rose Convocation, honoring the inaugural cohort of students from the St. John’s College Nursing Program. More than a ceremony, this convocation marked the fulfillment of a vision made possible through the transformative partnership between St. John’s College and the Connell School of Nursing at Boston College. Together, both Jesuit institutions have worked to nurture, guide, and empower a new generation of nurses grounded in compassion, competence, and commitment to service. On August 12th, 2025, SJC’s nursing students successfully passed their Practical Nurse Exam, officially beginning their professional journeys as nurse practitioners within Belize’s healthcare system. Their success reflects not only their own dedication and perseverance but also the collective efforts of faculty, mentors, families, and institutional partners who have supported their growth every step of the way. As these students continue their path toward becoming Registered Nurses, the St. John’s College community proudly celebrates their accomplishments—recognizing in them the embodiment of the Jesuit mission to form “men and women for and with others.” The St. John’s College Nursing Program stands today as a testament to the vision and leadership of its founders: Dr. Mirtha Alice Peralta, Dr. Solangel Alvarado, and Mrs. Lydia McCoy. Their commitment, foresight, and passion laid the foundation for a program that integrates academic excellence with Ignatian values of care, reflection, and service to others. The College also extends its deepest gratitude to the program’s long-standing partners and supporters: Dr. Mary Simonelli, Dr. Donna Cullinan, and Dr. Maureen Connolly from Boston College’s Connell School of Nursing; members of the Belize Nursing Association; preceptors; parents; and the wider SJC family. Their mentorship, collaboration, and faith in this shared mission have been instrumental in shaping both the program and its students. Through continued partnership and shared Ignatian ideals, the SJC Nursing Program continues to flourish—forming healthcare professionals who are not only skilled but also deeply compassionate and mission-driven. As St. John’s College celebrates this milestone, it reaffirms its dedication to providing transformative education that prepares its graduates to serve Belize and the wider world with excellence, empathy, and faith in action.

On August 12th , history was made as graduates of the St. John’s College Associate Degree Nursing Program  sat for the Practical Nurse (PN) Licensure Examination  for the very first time. This milestone marks a new chapter not only for SJC but also for Belize’s healthcare system. For the first time, SJC nursing graduates joined candidates from the University of Belize and other regional programs in taking this important exam, officially stepping into the journey of professional nursing practice. The Nurses and Midwives Council  proudly welcomed SJC into Belize’s nurse training family, recognizing this as a significant achievement in advancing healthcare education and workforce development. St. John’s College extends its warmest congratulations and encouragement to all nursing graduates who undertook the PN Licensure Exam. We are proud of our future nurses and wish them every success as they continue their calling to serve with skill, care, and compassion.