St. Thomas University’s
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Gus Machado †, may his soul rest in peace, was the definition of the American dream.
He came to the United States from his native Cuba at the age of 15. After attending Edwards Military Institute in North Carolina and Greenville College, he began working for the Caterpillar Tractor Company in Illinois. Machado and his family relocated to Miami in 1956 and invested in a gas station on North Miami Avenue. Gradually, he began exporting used vehicles from this site to Cuba. When sales consistently grew among the increasing Latin community, Machado sold the gas station, and with the proceeds, he purchased Star Motors, Inc. It was here that commensurate with Miami’s growth, the business and his personal wealth grew to become the #1 Ford dealer in Miami-Dade County, and 22nd among dealers nationwide.
Throughout the years, Gus Machado, and his wife, Lilliam, have dedicated their time, efforts, and financial support to their businesses and community. Together, they created The Gus Machado Family Foundation with the purpose of contributing to multiple charitable organizations and establishing a legacy to leave behind for their family and community.
Fun fact: The Gus Machado Family Foundation celebrates the Gus Machado Community & Back to School Fair annually, providing over 400+ children with backpacks full of supplies.
The Machado Family is committed to supporting efforts that promote prevention and funds for cancer research, along with continuing higher education, specifically in business school.
Through the generous gift of Gus Machado † and Lilliam, St. Thomas University’s School of Business was honored to have the name of the “Gus Machado College of Business” in 2020.
Miguel “Mike” B. Fernandez is the Chairman & CEO of MBF Healthcare Partners, L.P., a private investment firm focused on investing in healthcare service companies nationwide.
The Fernandez Family came to the United States from Cuba after living in Mexico while waiting for their U.S. visas. Mike attended Xavier High School in New York and the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque before enlisting in the U.S. Army.
Mr. Fernandez began his career in the insurance field in 1975. He had the opportunity to acquire experience from selling health insurance to clients, which led him to design the first national database on health insurance quoting programs in 1981.
He has been the Founder and/or majority shareholder of over twenty-five healthcare-related companies. Among these enterprises are Physicians Healthcare Plans, CAC Medical Centers, Prescribit Rx, CarePlus Health Plans, Navarro Pharmacies, Medical Specialties Distributors, Hospitalists of America, NutriForce and Simply Healthcare Plans.
Mr. Fernandez serves on the Board of Trustees of the University of Miami, and he is a member of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Dean’s Advisory Council. He has served on the Board of Directors of Mednax, on the Board of Trustees of Loyola University Maryland, and on the Boards of Dana Farber Cancer Institute, the United Way, and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, among others.
Fun fact: Mr. Fernandez has been frequently honored for his business acumen. He was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, Honoris Causa by St. Thomas University and by Loyola University Maryland, and an Associate in Science, Honoris Causa from Miami Dade College.
Over the past 20 years, Mike has been a generous contributor to many charitable and philanthropic causes, including St. Thomas University. Through the generous gift of Chairman & CEO Mike Fernandez, what was once considered the Student Life Center, is now known as the “Fernandez Family Center for Leadership & Wellness” (2005).
AutoNation is America’s largest and most recognized auto retailer representing domestic, import, and luxury brands.
At AutoNation, it’s about more than selling and servicing cars and trucks. It’s about taking care of people.
AutoNation is dedicated to enhancing the communities that they proudly call home. From initiatives like DRV PNK, which raises essential funding for cancer research and treatment, to partnering with organizations that promote equity, justice, and unity.
They believe that service to those around us is our greatest responsibility. “As individuals, we are strong. As a team, we are unstoppable”.
Through the generous gift of AutoNation Inc., St. Thomas University’s former Bobcat Turf Field, home of Football, Men & Women’s Soccer, Women’s Flag Football, and Women’s Lacrosse teams, is now recognized as “AutoNation Field” (2022).
John J. Dooner, Jr. ’70, is the Chairman of The Dooner Group and is recognized as a marketing industry leader.
John’s business career began in 1970 in the media area of Grey Advertising. Three years later, he joined an Interpublic agency and, after a series of management posts, joined McCann Erickson in 1984, rising to Worldwide President in 1992.
In 1997 as Chairman & CEO, he created and launched the McCann Worldgroup, one of the world’s leading marketing communication companies comprised of eight companies which themselves are global leaders in both size and perception in their respective fields. The creation of Worldgroup transformed the advertising industry, and Dooner became Chairman Emeritus in 2011.
Fun fact: Mr. Dooner, Jr. is one of the first classes graduating from St. Thomas University, then Biscayne College, with a bachelor’s degree in History. With his multitude of accomplishments, STU welcomed Mr. Dooner, Jr. ’70 to our Board of Trustees in 2013, and he is currently the Chairman of the Board.
Through the generous gift of Mr. John J. Dooner, Jr. ’70, what was formerly known as Kennedy Hall for the first graduating classes, is now known as “Biscayne College – Mimi Dooner Hall”. Mr. & Mrs. Dooner honored their first daughter Miriam “Mimi” Elizabeth by incorporating her name into the iconic building after she lost her battle with cancer.
Victor H. Mendelson has been the Co-President and a Director of HEICO Corporation since 2009. He has been associated with the Company since 1990, serving in various capacities, such as the General Counsel (1993-2008), Chief Operating Officer of HEICO’s former MediTek Health Corporation subsidiary from 1995 until its profitable sale in 1996, Vice President (1996-2001), Executive Vice President (2001-2009), and President & Chief Executive Officer of the HEICO Electronic Technologies Group since its formation in September 1996.
Since the Mendelson family assumed management control of HEICO Corporation in 1990, the firm has experienced 20% compound annual growth in sales and net income, and more in share price.
HEICO is considered one of the world’s largest designers and makers of FAA-approved alternative commercial aircraft replacement parts; the company has been named one of the “100 Most Trustworthy Companies in America” and one of the ‘World’s Most Innovative Growth Companies” by Forbes thanks to its diversified aerospace, defense, electronics manufacturing, and services company with production, engineering, or distribution facilities in 21 states and 13 countries.
Mr. Mendelson received his AB degree from Columbia College of Columbia University in the City of New York, and his JD degree from the University of Miami School of Law. He is currently a Trustee of Columbia University (NYC), a Trustee of St. Thomas University (FL), a member of the University of Miami School of Law Dean’s Advisory Council, Director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade, as well as a Director and Past President of the Board of Directors of the Florida Grand Opera.
He is a recipient of the American Dreamer Award from Hispanic Unity of Florida, the Twelve Good Men Award from Ronald McDonald House, The Impresario Award from the Opera Society of Broward, the Henry Flagler Award from HistoryMiami and the AJC’s National Human Rights Award in 2018 alongside his family, and recipient of Columbia College’s John Jay Award in 2020.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Victor H. Mendelson, and his wife Lisa, the Gus Machado College of Business houses “The Lisa and Victor Mendelson Institute for Data Science & Analytics” (2022).
The Amaturos are models of providing excellence in community service. They dedicate their time between a variety of philanthropic causes, most prominently the Amaturo Family Foundation and the furtherance of Catholic education at all levels.
Wini is the President of The Amaturo Family Foundation and serves on St. Thomas University’s Board of Trustees, while her husband Joe, sits on the Board of Trustees of their generous Foundation.
Joe Amaturo, an MBA graduate from Harvard, is a prominent entrepreneur having owned and managed twenty-two radio and television stations around the country. Wini attended NYU and worked in an advertising agency in New York City up until she married in 1956.
The Amaturos are recognized for various accomplishments both professionally, and philanthropically. Joe was inducted into the H. Wayne Huizenga School of Business and Entrepreneurship’s Hall of Fame at Nova Southeastern University in 1994, has served as chairman of MUVICO Theaters, Inc., and remains active in many local organizations, including the United Way of Broward County, the YMCA, the Urban League, and is a longstanding member of the board of the Broward Center for the Performing Arts.
Fun fact about Joe: The Amaturo Theater at the Broward Center is named after Joe’s parents, and the couple’s gift included an endowment allowing free performances for Broward School children.
Wini on her part is a Dame of Malta, and a member of the Ambassadors’ Council of The Pantry of Broward and was among the first recipients of the Women of Faith award for the virtue of wisdom from Archbishop Thomas Wenski and the Archdiocese of Miami in 2014.
Fun fact about Wini: One of Wini’s favorite events to attend on campus is commencement. “We love the various events at St. Thomas, but graduations are my favorite. Seeing many first-generation college students proudly walk across the stage to receive their diploma and hearing their friends and family cheer for them is a very beautiful moment to watch”.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. and Mrs. Amaturo, the St. Thomas University School of Theology is now known as the “Amaturo Family School of Theology” (2022).
Chapel of St. Anthony
Central to St. Thomas University is its chapel, the Chapel of Saint Anthony, and it is hard to believe it has not always been there. The chapel’s doors first opened 18 years ago in February 2004, thanks to philanthropists Winifred “Wini” and Joseph “Joe” Amaturo.
Joe and Wini have been involved with St. Thomas for over two decades, and it started with a chance meeting with then-STU President Monsignor Casale through a mutual friend, David Lawrence, former Miami Herald publisher. Since then, their generosity has touched many STU and non-STU students.
The Amaturo’s first gift to STU helped build a vocational school in Haiti – Haiti Tec. And when they heard of Msgr. Casale’s dream of having a chapel on campus, they did not think twice about donating the funds needed to build it.
“We believe in the strong academic and ethical values taught in Catholic institutions, especially at St. Thomas,” said Wini. “So, when we heard of the opportunity to help support St. Thomas University, we were more than happy to do so. Especially with the building of the chapel, every Catholic university should have one; it is the essence of the university”.
“St. Thomas is a wonderfully well-rounded university, and it is steadily growing. Knowing that its students are instilled with the skills and values to become leaders in our community is reason enough to support STU. Its students not only learn but thrive.”
Jorge Rico is the Co-Founding Partner of MBF Healthcare Partners, L.P., and has served as a Managing Director of the firm since its inception. He directs MBF’s development and manages all aspects of MBF’s investment activities.
Jorge Rico’s background includes over 30 years of experience within the healthcare industry, specializing in the development and implementation of strategic plans in both public and privately held companies.
Mr. Rico has served as a member of the Board of Directors of Navarro Discount Pharmacies, Nutri-Force Nutrition, Simply Healthcare Holdings, Medical Specialties Distributors, and Suncrest Healthcare and is currently a member of the Board of Directors of E-Mindful and Concordia Behavioral Health, and a member of the Board of Trustees at St. Thomas University (FL).
Mr. Rico holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from St. Thomas University and a Master’s in Business Administration specializing in Healthcare Administration from the University of Miami.
Fun fact: The one thing Mr. Rico is passionate about outside of his family and business is assisting young in succeeding in life through education and mentoring. He continues to support universities and high schools in our community to achieve that objective one student at a time.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Jorge L. Rico ’86, and his family, the Plaza in front of the Gus Machado College of Business is now recognized as the “Rico Family Plaza” (2022).
Dominick F. Miniaci, Esq. is the Founder & Managing Attorney of The Law Offices of Dominick F. Miniaci, P.A. He has been practicing U.S. Immigration Law since 1979 and has the distinction of being one of only 79 Florida Bar Board Certified Immigration and Naturalization Attorneys in the State.
Mr. Miniaci is a member of the St. Thomas University Board of Trustees, the Fort Lauderdale Museum of Discovery and Science Board of Trustees, and the Broward Performing Arts Foundation Board of Directors, and serves in leadership roles for various other organizations.
He has received numerous awards for his volunteerism, including being named Man of the Year by Saint Anthony Catholic School Foundation for Education in 2008, Man of the Year by City of Hope in 1990, and was recognized for 35 years of service and dedication to the Fraternal Order of Police in 2011.
Fun fact: In 2016, the STU Beach Volleyball Courts officially changed its name to “The Dominick Miniaci Beach Volleyball Courts”. The dedication included an exhibition featuring STU Bobcats Volleyball team and pro beach volleyball players, such as STU alum Adriana Montilla, AVP Tour player and international games gold medalist Bonnie Levin, Mexican national player Cynthia Aceves, to name a few.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Dominick F. Miniaci, Esq. and the Miniaci Family, the Fernandez Family Center for Leadership & Wellness houses within the “Miniaci Family Leadership Mezzanine”, which leads to three classrooms for the Sports Administration program, more athletic coaches’ offices, and the eSports gaming area.
Scott Boras is the founder, owner, and president of the Boras Corporation, a sports agency based in Newport Beach, California, which represents roughly 175 professional baseball clients.
Boras attended the University of the Pacific, where he led the baseball team with a .312 batting average in 1972 and was in the Top 10 in school history in multiple offensive categories. He received his Doctor of Pharmacy in 1977 and his Juris Doctor degree from the university’s McGeorge School of Law in 1982.
After law school, Boras worked as an associate in the pharmaceutical defense department of the Chicago firm Rooks, Pitts & Poust. But by 1980, Boras decided his calling was as a baseball agent.
Boras’s start as an agent came representing Manny Trillo, a former major league shortstop for the Philadelphia Phillies and other teams, and Bill Caudill, a former minor league teammate and closer for the Seattle Mariners, both of whom now work for Boras Corporation.
Boras has represented hundreds of players on all thirty major league teams and has participated in dozens of high-profile negotiations. He is known for identifying sources of leverage for his clients and using them for the client’s advantage. Since 2013, Forbes magazine has named Boras the “Most Powerful Sports Agent in the World”.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Scott Boras and Boras Corporation, St. Thomas University’s Baseball Program was honored to receive Major League standard state-of-the-art batting cages and continuous support, which gives our Student-Athletes a championship edge that no other college baseball program has.
Vincent “Vince” C. Hennessy is a St. Thomas University Alumnus, Class of 1967, in accounting, and earned a Law Degree from the University of Miami School of Law.
He went into real estate private equity investments and finance throughout the U.S. and retired from the ExxonMobil Foundation. He oversaw all Mining Operations for Exxon throughout the world, which led him to live in Italy, Hong Kong, and Australia, to name a few.
Vince currently lives in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife, Betty.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Vincent “Vince” C. Hennessy, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 108 is now known as the “Charles & Mary Hennessy Case Study Room” (2022).
Dolphins fans knew Don Shula for his success on the field. But those blessed to see Shula off the field knew of his involvement within the South Florida Catholic community.
Shula fell in love with the game of football at an early age and would play the sport with friends in his neighborhood. Although his parents forbid him to play the sport due to an accident from playing, his natural abilities were noticed by his gym teacher when he entered Harvey High School in Painesville, Ohio. During his senior year, Shula led the Harvey High team to a 7-3 record. It was the first time in program history that they won seven games.
He played professionally for the Cleveland Browns (1951–52), the Baltimore Colts (1953–56), and the Washington Redskins (1957). He began coaching in 1958 as an assistant at the University of Virginia, and as the defensive backfield coach for the Detroit Lions (1960–62) before becoming head coach of the Baltimore Colts in 1963. He was the youngest head coach in NFL history to bring their first NFL Championship game since 1959, earning the league’s Coach of the Year award.
Don Shula is known for holding the NFL record for most career wins as a head coach with 347 victories. He led the Baltimore Colts (1963-69) and Miami Dolphins (1970-95) to six Super Bowls. The Dolphins won twice, including a perfect 17-0 record in the 1972 season.
Fun fact: From 1970 to 1992, The Miami Dolphins practiced daily at Biscayne College, now known as St. Thomas University. It is hard to believe that such a prominent figure and his team would pick Biscayne College for their summer training camp. The team would stay in the school’s dorms and have meals in the university cafeteria. Even after the Dolphins left to start the regular season, Coach Shula would still come back frequently to support the University.
Up to this day, the partnership still exists, many of St. Thomas University’s Sport Administration STUdents receive internship opportunities with the Dolphins organization, providing them with a one-of-a-kind experience.
Through the generous gift of the Shula Family., the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 106 is now known as the “Donald F. Shula & Family Case Study Room” (2022).
With backgrounds in Human Resources, Tom Shea and his wife Maureen founded Florida’s first corporate outplacement firm, Shea Associates, in 1979. They built a strong Florida-based clientele and joined the Association of Outplacement Firms International to expand their national and international referral base. They were invited to join and became active members of the United Nations Business Council which elevated their brand further.
When Right Management was founded with the goal of uniting many independent outplacement firms under one banner, Shea Associates with its strong Florida/Caribbean client base, understood the value and became one of the early members. Right Management expanded globally and grew its services to also include executive coaching, assessment, and leadership development in a growing talent management practice.
Tom, Chairman & Founder, has been named Florida’s 500 most influential business leaders by Florida Trend, while Maureen, CEO, has been recognized for helping shape and support Florida’s HR profession. Serving major Fortune 500 firms, their team consistently ranks as a top-performing region in Right Management’s worldwide network across over fifty countries.
Fun fact: In 2019, Tom and Maureen were honored by the South Florida Business & Wealth Magazine with the Lifetime Achievement of Excellence in HR award. That same year, Maureen, a current Board of Trustees of St. Thomas University, received the Bobcat Community Award.
Through the generous gift of Mr. and Mrs. Shea., the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 107 is now known as the “Tom & Maureen Case Study Room” (2022).
Mario Trueba, a Cuban native, is the Regional President of South Florida for First Horizon Bank. His banking career began in 1984 with SunTrust, United National Bank, Mellon United, and Sabadell, before working tirelessly to reach the title of CEO & President of IberiaBank. IberiaBank was acquired by First Horizon in 2020. Mr. Trueba oversees the operations from Key West to Jupiter, the bank’s largest coverage area in Florida.
Mr. Trueba is a graduate of St. Thomas University with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and an MBA from Florida International University. He is a board member of the Orange Bowl Committee, serves on the Board of Trustees of St. Thomas University, and is a member of the FIU Business Dean’s Council.
Fun fact: Mario Trueba was named to South Florida Business Journal’s “2020 Power Leaders in Banking” and received the Distinguished Torch Award from FIU.
Through the generous gift of Mr. Mario Trueba and his family, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 114 is now known as “The Trueba Family & First Horizon Trading Room” (2022).
Dan Dolan is a founding partner of Dolan Dobrinsky Rosenblum Bluestein, LLP. He is an alum of St. Thomas University School of Law and is actively involved with his law school alma mater. Mr. Dolan serves on the University’s Board of Trustees and is the Chairman of the College of Law Board of Advisors.
An Eagle member of the Florida Justice Association, Mr. Dolan was selected to serve as Chairman of the Dade County Legislative Recruitment Task Force. He is “AV” Peer Review Rated through the prestigious Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting the highest rating in legal ability and ethical standards.
The South Florida Legal Community have recognized Dan Dolan as one of the region’s leading trial lawyers. He was elected a member of the American Board of Trial Advocates (ABOTA), considered the industry gold standard reflecting jury trial experience and professional reputation.
Fun fact: Mr. Dolan is one of the few attorneys to garner the distinction of Super Lawyer. Only a limited number of attorneys in each state are given such recognition, as it is a distinction bestowed upon the top-rated attorneys in the nation.
Through the generous gift of Mr. Daniel D. Dolan, II, Esq. ’96, the College of Law Student Affairs Wing is now known as the “Ken Feldman Student Affairs Wing” (2008).
Paul A. Garcia, CPA/CFF, CVA is the Co-Founder of Garcia Santa María PLLC, and a St. Thomas University Board of Trustees Member.
With over 30 years of experience in all aspects of accounting, tax, consulting services, and litigation support, Paul is considered by members of the professional community as a highly experienced Certified Public Accountant in the State of Florida.
Paul specializes in forensic, and valuation matters for matrimonial dissolution matters. His civil litigation experience includes settlement negotiations, business valuations, shareholder/partner disputes, and the sale/purchase of business enterprises.
Paul completed a degree in Business Administration from Florida International University, is a Certified Valuation Analyst by the National Association of Certified Valuation Analysts, is Certified in Financial Forensics by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and is a Florida Supreme Court Certified Family Mediator.
Fun fact: Mr. Garcia is much more than just a financial expert in family law matters. He utilized his role as an accountant as a springboard for helping underprivileged families while serving as the President of KidSide, a not-for-profit organization that aims to protect children from low-income families in high-conflict court cases by giving them access to life-changing interventions.
Through the generous gifts of Mr. Paul A. Garcia, C.P.A., and his family, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 224 is now known as the “Paul A. Garcia & Family Classroom” (2022); and the “Paul A. Garcia CPA and Family” house St. Thomas University Spirit Store.
Paul Mainieri is a former baseball coach and second baseman. He played college baseball at Louisiana State University (LSU), Miami-Dade North Community College, and the University of New Orleans before pursuing a professional baseball career.
Paul Mainieri is an STU graduate, M.S. Sports Administration Class of 1982, former Head Baseball Coach, and former Director of Athletics at St. Thomas University.
Paul Mainieri’s coaching career began at his alma mater, Miami Columbus High School, where he served as assistant baseball and football coach for three years. He was the Head Coach for St. Thomas from 1983-88, while also serving as the University’s Director of Athletics from 1986-88. He amassed a career record of 179-121-2, was named the Sunshine State Conference Coach of the Year in 1984 and his 1987 team led the nation with a .340 batting average in six years at STU. Mainieri went on to coach the Air Force Academy from 1989-94 where he won 152 games and is the only coach in school history to win 20 or more games in six consecutive seasons.
Prior to becoming LSU’s coach in June 2006, Paul Mainieri directed the Notre Dame program in 12 seasons (1995-2006) to 533 wins, nine conference titles, nine NCAA tournament berths, and a College World Series appearance in 2002.
Paul Mainieri was inducted into the St. Thomas University Sports Hall of Fame in November 2009; that same year, Coach Mainieri won the NCAA College World Series with LSU. His jersey No. 1 was retired by the STU in February 2012 and was named a 2014 inductee to the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
Fun fact: Coach Mainieri (2014) and his father, Dr. Demie Mainieri (1988) became the first father-son duo to be elected to the American Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame.
The home of Bobcats Baseball received a name change on March 1st, 2013, when the field bestowed the name of the former baseball coach, athletic director, and alum Paul Mainieri along with his father’s name, now known as the “Paul Demie Mainieri Field”.
The ceremonial first pitch was thrown by Mainieri’s father, Dr. Demie Mainieri, a former adjunct professor in the early years of the prestigious St. Thomas University Sports Administration program. In 1990, Dr. Mainieri became the first junior college coach in history to win 1,000 games. He finished with 1,012 wins in a career that spanned from 1961 to 1990. While at Miami-Dade College, Dr. Mainieri coached 35 players who went on to play in the major leagues including Hall of Famer Steve Carlton, Bucky Dent, and Mike Piazza.
Antonio L. Argiz, C.P.A. is the South Florida Managing Partner of BDO USA. For over 40 years, he led the growth of the largest Florida-based professional services firm, Morrison, Brown, Argiz & Farra, LLC (MBAF), to becoming one of the Top 40 accounting firms in the nation before merging with BDO USA.
Mr. Argiz believes that “there is a need for more donors to help the many great charities impacting lives”.
Through the generous gift of Mr. Antonio L. Argiz, C.P.A., the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 109 is now known as the “Antonio L. “Tony” Argiz Case Study Room” (2022).
Robert E. Sanchez is the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ryder System, Inc. Over 30 years, Mr. Sanchez has served in multiple senior executive leadership positions. He played an intricate part in centralizing Ryder’s asset management function and improving its cost management to increase the return of capital and earnings of the company.
Mr. Sanchez’s achievements go beyond his professional accomplishments but also through his philanthropic endeavors; he believes that “Giving back in the communities where we work and live is an inherent part of our culture”.
Through the generous gift of Chairman & CEO Robert E. Sanchez and Ryder System Charitable Foundation, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 210 is now known as the “Ryder System Inc. Trade & Logistics Classroom” (2022).
Patrick L. Cordero, Esq. ’88 is the Principal Attorney at The Law Offices of Patrick L. Cordero, P.A. He has been the top consumer bankruptcy petition filer of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 in the State of Florida for the last 32 years. Being rated by the highly prestigious Martindale Hubbell and having an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau is just some of his accomplishments and recognitions.
Patrick Cordero was born in Bronx, New York, to Hispanic parents. He is a respected, devoted family man, actively involved in the community and religious organizations. Patrick serves as a consultant to many attorneys and businesses regarding asset protection and bankruptcy-related matters and has been interviewed by local and national TV stations for his expertise on Consumer Bankruptcy laws.
Mr. Cordero continues to be part of the efforts in making this world a better place, either through his law practice or his sincere efforts with the local community. He serves on the Board of Advisors for his alma mater, St. Thomas University, and hosts a weekly TV program with issues affecting the community, topics of national/local concerns, and political dilemmas.
Fun fact: Patrick was recognized as one of the Top Lawyers in Florida by the Select Legal Network, for demonstrating the highest ethical standards and professional excellence. Adding to his accolades, Mr. Cordero was presented with the Miami-Dade County Certificate of Appreciation and recognition for valuable and exemplary contributions to the community.
“Giving back in any way you can, big or small, shows your appreciation. By giving back I am investing in our community’s future, in education, and in the legacy of my graduating class”.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Patrick L. Cordero, Esq. ’88, the College of Law Breezeway is recognized as the “Patrick Cordero Breezeway” (2008).
Former Director of the Master of Accounting program at St. Thomas University.
Through the generous contribution of Dr. Reese, the Gus Machado College of Business Classrooms 113 & 201 are now known as the “Reese-Palacios Family Meeting Room” & the “Kent A. Reese & Randy L. Reese Classroom” respectively (2022).
Former Director of the Master of Accounting program at St. Thomas University.
Through the generous contribution of Dr. Reese, the Gus Machado College of Business Classrooms 113 & 201 are now known as the “Reese-Palacios Family Meeting Room” & the “Kent A. Reese & Randy L. Reese Classroom” respectively (2022).
Joseph P. Lacher is the former Chairman of Goodwill Industries of South Florida, currently serving as a Member of the Board of Trustees at St. Thomas University.
A Florida native, he grew up in Bradenton and received a bachelor’s degree from Belmont Abbey College and an M.B.A. from Fairleigh Dickinson University. He was also a Sloan Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Before Goodwill Industries, he was the President of BellSouth in Florida and was responsible for managing all the company’s operations in the state. He joined Southern Bell in 1967 as a management assistant in Charlotte, N.C. Mr. Lacher then became District Accounting Manager for Jacksonville and held positions of increasing responsibility in Atlanta. He was appointed Vice President of Southern Bell’s North Carolina operations in 1988, and in 1990 to Vice President of Southern Bell’s Florida operations. In March 1991, Mr. Lacher was appointed State President for Florida Operations of BellSouth Telecommunications, Inc.
He is active in civic affairs, serving as director of Great Florida Bank, Perry Ellis International, Miami Business Forum, Associated Industries, Florida Council of 100, Enterprise Florida, Inc., and Florida TaxWatch. He is also on the board of Community Partnership for the Homeless, Goodwill Industries, and Our Kids, Inc.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Joseph “Joe” P. Lacher, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 220 is now known as the “Joseph P. Lacher & Family Classroom” (2022).
Manuel “Manny” Kadre is the Chairman & CEO of MBB Auto Group in Coral Gables, Florida, a premium luxury retail automotive group, which owns eleven other dealerships in New York and New Jersey that sell Mercedes-Benz, Land Rover, Jaguar, and Volvo.
He is the Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the University of Miami, serves as Chairman of the Board of Republic Services, Inc., and sits on the board of directors of The Home Depot, Inc., and Mednax Services, Inc. He is also a partner and director of Gold Coast Restaurants, which is the largest franchisee of TGI Friday’s in the country.
Manny has served in various roles, including President, Vice President, General Counsel, and Secretary, for a number of automotive, beverage, and consumer products companies in markets throughout the United States and the Caribbean.
Fun fact: He grew up in New York City and moved to Florida in 1990. He got his start in the beverage distribution business and then began buying car dealerships. He eventually sold the dealerships in Florida to concentrate on those in New York and New Jersey.
Mr. Kadre is a graduate of Iona College and earned his law degree from Fordham University School of Law.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Manuel “Manny” Kadre, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 222 is now known as the “Kadre Family Classroom” (2022).
Victor Benitez is the Vice President & General Manager at Gus Machado Ford and is a current member of St. Thomas University’s Board of Trustees.
Through the generous contribution of Victor & Idania Benitez, the Gus Machado College of Business Classroom 226 is now known as the “Victor & Idania Benitez Classroom” (2022).
Albert Sotero is an innovative and results-driven leader focused on achieving exceptional results in highly competitive environments that demand continuous improvement.
He is the CEO of several companies, including Everest Builders, Inc., and FalconTrust Group. Albert specializes in driving product, process, and customer service improvement while building partnerships and alliances.
Proven success benchmarking pace-setting results across key performance metrics (sales, revenue, income, quality, production, and service). His record includes leading strategic initiatives to catapult per-annum revenue.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Albert Sotero, the Plaza of the College of Law is now known as the “Albert Sotero Family Plaza” (2022).
Ricky K. Patel, Esq. ’09 is the Senior Partner of Farrell & Patel which he Co-Founded with STU Alumnus Wesley Farrell ’09. He is responsible for collaborating directly with firm clients, creating over-arching strategies, and communicating with the media and public at large.
Mr. Patel received his law degree from St. Thomas University School of Law and his undergraduate degree from Florida State University. He became a lawyer so he could make a difference. As a partner at Farrell & Patel he continues this important work by also focusing on helping those who may be underrepresented. He is devoted to his clients, community, and charitable causes. He started a Family Foundation, Its4TheKids, which provides resources to children in need.
Ricky Patel provides both his time and resources to The United Way (Tocqueville Member), VAWA (Violence Against Women’s Act), Gracious Hands Haitian Orphanage, Fashion Gives Back (Founder), Puerto Rico Relief, St. Thomas University, School of Law Advisory Board, and Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, where he served as Chairman to the Board of Trustees.
Fun fact: Mr. Patel was the youngest person appointed to President Barack Obama’s National Finance Committee, which he served on for two years. He also served as an ambassador for the Clinton Global Initiative.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Ricky K. Patel, Esq. ’09, the Main Walkway in the School of Law Breezeway is now known as the “Ricky Patel 2009 Walkway” (2016).
Mario Murgado is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Murgado Automotive Group. The company operates automotive dealerships in three states, representing Alfa Romeo, Audi, Bentley, Buick, Cadillac, Ferrari, GMC, Honda, Infiniti, Maserati, Mazda, and Volkswagen.
For more than 20 years, Mario Murgado has led Murgado Automotive Group with an entrepreneurial spirit while working in close connection to corporate giants like General Motors, Honda, Nissan, and Volkswagen. The dealership group has grown from three barren stores when he acquired it to 17 dealerships, offering a full spectrum of cars, trucks, and SUVS – from traditional, economy brands to ultra-luxury, elite sports cars.
Murgado has served as Chairman of the Florida Automobile Dealers Association and the American Honda National Dealer Advisory Board, as a member of the General Motors advisory boards for marketing and fixed-operations dealers and is a member of the South Florida Dealers Association and AIADA Board member.
Outside of his business and industry, Murgado is active in numerous civic and community organizations. He currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for St. Thomas University, and as a senior member of the Orange Bowl Committee. He is also a Past Chair for Miami International Auto Show.
Murgado earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from La Salle University and graduated from the Owner/President Management Program from Harvard University.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Mario Murgado, the Gus Machado College of Business Accounting program is now known as “The Murgado School of Accounting” (2022).
Jose Navarro is the President of MMG Equity Partners, Inc. He provides strategic guidance and is directly involved in overseeing the leasing of the current portfolio.
Jose Navarro arrived in Miami, FL, from Cuba in 1960 at the age of 16 and found work in a drugstore in Miami Beach. He helped to bring his family over in 1961, and alongside his father, they opened the first Navarro Pharmacy in the United States in Little Havana.
Over the course of the 45 years, Jose led the company to over $250 million in sales, with its 20 stores leading the industry in sales per store, sales per square foot, and prescriptions per store. Navarro was the largest Hispanic-owned drugstore chain in the United States before the sale of the company to CVS Health.
Jose graduated from the University of Florida in 1970 with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy. He has served on the Board of Trustees for St. Thomas University, the Latin Chamber of Commerce, and the National Association of Chain Drug Stores.
Mr. Navarro is focused on philanthropic efforts through the Navarro Family Foundation. Through the generous contribution of Mr. Navarro and his family, St. Thomas University received funding for the “Navarro Family Foundation Scholarship” which benefits our STUdents in a multitude of ways.
Janice Gonzalez is the President & CEO of JBG Communications, a Marketing, Advertising and PR company that is committed to help individuals and businesses achieve results within a reasonable budget.
At the age of 23, Janice was the first female, and youngest, Account Executive at the prestigious William Cook Advertising Agency. In 1992 Janice started her own marketing and public relations firm, JBG communications. Her forte is in assisting individuals and organizations develop comprehensive marketing and PR plans that will help them achieve their “rainmaking’” goals.
Janice is a native of Miami and has experience in dealing with local and international markets, including Latin America and The Caribbean.
She received her Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing with a minor in Advertising from the University of Miami Herbert Business Scholl in 1985.
Through the generous contribution of Mrs. Janice Gonzalez, St. Thomas University received funding for the “Ervin Gonzalez Legal Scholars Program at Biscayne College” which benefits our STUdents in a multitude of ways.
Herbert Yardley is the former owner of Massey Yardley Chrysler Dodge after being in the industry for more than 60 years. He is currently a member of St. Thomas University’s Board of Trustees.
Mr. Yardley served as the Mayor of Sea Ranch Lakes, FL, in the early 90s, the Chairman of PBS Miami, the President of Volunteer Broward, and a member of the University of Florida Foundation.
He is a graduate of the University of Florida and attended a graduate business program at the University of Michigan.
Mr. Yardley and his son, John, were part of the Automobile Dealership Council. He believes in professionalizing the automobile dealership workforce and believes it is critical that the industry starts hiring college graduates and providing meaningful, paid internship opportunities to college students. His commitment to supporting higher education does not stop there.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Herbert Yardley, St. Thomas University received funding for the “Catherine Anderson Yardley Scholarship”, named after his late wife, Catherine, which assists undergraduate STUdents, and “The Thomas Hargis Anderson Law Scholarship”, in honor of his father-in-law, which assists College of Law STUdents financially.
Masoud Shojaee is a testament to how hard work and perseverance can pay off. Leading the pack of Miami’s plethora of development firms is Shoma Group, a renowned multi-billion-dollar real estate company that has been led into international recognition by the husband-wife team of Masoud and Stephanie Shojaee.
Masoud Shojaee is the CEO & Chairman of the Board of Shoma Group, one of the largest real estate development companies in South Florida. Initially, the company focused on developing mid-range priced properties, mostly single-family homes, and townhouses.
An Iranian native, Masoud immigrated to the United States in 1978 before founding Shoma Group a decade later. He attended the University of Miami, and after completing his degree, he decided to start a venture in real estate, and the concept of Shoma was born.
The company has developed more than sixty-five development projects, one million square feet of office and retail space, and oversaw more than $5 billion in real estate transactions. However, Mr. Shojaee doesn`t rest on past success. He continues to develop and refine his approach based on his depth of understanding of the markets and his desire to create projects that inspire excitement and new ways to improve the environments we live in.
Fun fact: Masoud and Stephanie’s close relationship is able to thrive both inside the workplace and out of the office thanks to their overlapping interests, deep-seated love for one another, and of course, a shared passion for development.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Masoud Shojaee, the College of Law Wing is now known as the “Shojaee Family Law School Wing” (2014).
Gary M. Goldbloom is a real estate developer and attorney with over thirty years of experience in the field. He is the President of MG Investment, Inc. and has developed, constructed, and managed a variety of properties, including multi-family residential, office, retail, hotel, and government.
Mr. Goldbloom is currently the President of his family foundation. Gary knew the importance of giving back from his parents, the late George & Evelyn Goldbloom, as they pursued many philanthropic activities. The family foundation, The George and Evelyn Goldbloom Foundation continues with the legacy of its founders; Gary contributed a hefty sum to finance The Goldbloom Family Distinguished Endowed Chair in Cybersecurity.
Gary earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Miami School of Law.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Gary Goldbloom and The George & Evelyn Goldbloom Foundation, the Convocation Hall is now known as the “Evelyn & George Goldbloom Convocation Hall”.
John J. Brunetti Jr. is a successful businessman, a philanthropist, and a highly respected member of South Florida community.
Mr. Brunetti is the President of The Brunetti Foundation and President of the Hialeah Park, after the passing of his father, John J. Brunetti Sr., as well as the Director of Amboy Bank in Old Bridge, New Jersey. He currently sits on the Board of Trustees of St. Thomas University.
John J. Brunetti Jr. has been a major force in the future development and global expansion of Brunetti Properties for the last 25 years. Focusing on strategic planning, structuring, personnel, and resource allocation.
After his post-university apprenticeship with his father at the Brunetti Organization, his activities expanded into the field of government affairs and corporate planning for the future development of Brunetti Properties. Operating in both Florida and New Jersey, Mr. Brunetti negotiated a 450-acre, mixed-use development in Old Bridge, New Jersey, and laid the groundwork for the revitalization of the real estate market in central New Jersey.
Mr. Brunetti, Jr. is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey, the prestigious New York Military Academy, in Cornwall, New York, and of the Lear School in Miami, Florida.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. John J. Brunetti Jr., the College of Law houses the “The John J. Brunetti Human Trafficking Academy”. The Academy develops education programs, conducts research, and instructs law and policy to fight human trafficking throughout the world and to empower survivor leadership in our global community.
Listed amongst the Most Influential People of 2021 by TIME100, Ebony Magazine’s Power 100 Most Influential African Americans., the National Trial Lawyers’ Top 100 Lawyers, and the 2014 NNPA Newsmaker of the Year, Attorney Benjamin Crump is referred to as “Black America’s Attorney General”. Through a steadfast dedication to justice and service, Attorney Crump has established himself as one of the nation’s foremost lawyers and advocates for social justice, winning several record settlements and verdicts for victims and families that have faced injustice.
Mr. Crump is the President of the National Civil Rights Trial Lawyers Association. He is also the founder and director of The Benjamin L. Crump Center for Social Justice at St. Thomas University College of Law, one of the most diverse law schools in the nation.
Among dozens of accomplishments, Attorney Crump has been recognized with the NAACP Thurgood Marshall Award, the SCLC Martin Luther King Servant Leader Award, the American Association for Justice Johnnie Cochran Award, and the Alpha Kappa Alpha Eleanor Roosevelt Medallion for Service.
Crump graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice in 1992 and received his Juris Doctor in 1995 from FSU College of Law.
Through the generous contribution of Mr. Benjamin L. Crump, the College of Law houses “The Benjamin L. Crump Center for Social Justice”, which focuses on the dignity of all people, seeking to promote a robust dialogue among policy makers, law enforcement, the judicial system, and affected communities.
Coach Ken Stibler was the founding Athletic Director and the first Men’s Basketball Coach (1966-1983) at Biscayne College, now St. Thomas University. Stibler expanded the athletic programs, turning the Bobcats into contenders in multiple sports, compiling 216 wins in his coaching career, including victories over major universities such as University of Houston, LaSalle, Dayton, Fairfield, Iona, Southern Mississippi, South Alabama, and Yale while also battling national powers such as Florida State University and Tennessee University.
Fun fact: In his final two years as Head Coach at St. Thomas University, Coach Stibler earned consecutive Sunshine State Conference Coach of the Year awards. He was inducted into the STU Hall of Fame in the 1995 inaugural class, and into the Hall of Fame of the Sunshine State Conference in 1997.
During his time at the University, he served many roles – at times promoter, public relations man, sports publicist, cheerleader, trainer, and coach. Stibler was a professor of English Composition, Sports Administration, Business Communication and Report Writing, and History; and was named ‘Professor of the Year’ four times in his tenure at Biscayne College.
He was a mentor and friend to his players and students and was actively involved in social issues and numerous charities – a true humanitarian always lending a hand to those less fortunate than himself.
On May 4, 2019, Stibler’s legacy was commemorated by naming the street leading to the Fernandez Family Center “Coach Ken Stibler Way”. Stibler served as a trailblazer for Biscayne College, now St. Thomas University, helping build the university and athletic programs to the national powers they are today.
