Opening Doors for Generations: Santander Bank US Awards $600,000 to STUdents

By Belkis Mejia Perdomo

On September 16, 2025, St. Thomas University (STU) celebrated a transformative $600,000 gift from Santander US to support first-generation students. The funding will help them pursue their degrees with reduced financial burden while also providing access to life-skills training. At a campus ceremony, STU President David A. Armstrong, J.D., described the investment as “a pathway for students to transform not only their own lives, but their families’ lives for generations to come.” 

Santander leaders, including Senior Vice President Jean G. Bélizaire and Executive Vice President Ronaldo Rondinelli, highlighted the bank’s commitment to expanding educational access in Miami and beyond. Bélizaire explained that the contribution is part of Santander’s global strategy to mobilize $400 million by 2026 for programs advancing education, employability, and entrepreneurship. He emphasized that the initiative reflects Santander’s culture of helping people and communities prosper, a core value that continues to guide its investments. He also introduced the Santander Open Academy, which offers free courses and content, along with scholarships worth up to $20,000 available to undergraduate students nationwide. 

Rondinelli noted Santander’s expanding presence in Miami, pointing to new branches in Doral and Downtown Miami that feature work cafés and meeting spaces open to students, faculty, and local residents. The ceremony concluded with a symbolic big check presentation, marking the start of a partnership that positions St. Thomas University students at the heart of Santander’s vision for education and opportunity.