TAMPA - For Richard Gonzmart, Jesuit High School wasn't just the place he went to study as a teenager in 1971. Jesuit was where he lay the groundwork for his life and what helped him gain the values young men receive when attending the Catholic high school for four short years.
"I always wanted to go to Jesuit," Gonzmart said. "When I attended I was helped along and had people to guide me in the right path. I received the values all young men receive here and I wanted to help other achieve their dreams in the way that I have."
Jesuit recognized Gonzmart, the president of the Columbia Restaurant group, on March 2 for a 40 million For Greater Glory capital campaign. The project aimed to provide more resources and create a dynamic learning environment for present and future students.
Seeing the project come to fruition overwhelmed Joe Caballero, Jesuit's board chair and a 1986 graduate.
"This was planned and supported by the generous alumni who lived the transformational experience at Jesuit and who believe in the mission of the school and the impact it has on men," Caballero said. "The core and the heart of the school hasn't changed, but this is a step toward another 100 years."
Nick Suszynski, Jesuit's director of development, echoed Caballero's sentiments, saying Gonzmart Hall will help embody the education Jesuit offers and be a step towards enhancing resources to help further future generations.
"It's hard to put into words, but it's inspiring and remarkable to see this (Gonzmart Hall)be open to the public," Suszynski said. "This was a road of hard work, but we've received a positive response. I'm very excited to see this shared with future generations."
Jesuit senior and student council president Tyler Peterson also spoke at the ceremony and introduced a time capsule comprised of different items and news pieces from the present. It will be opened 100 years from now.
Peterson also wrote a letter reflecting on the current school year and recent events such as the Parkland Stoneman Douglas shooting. As one of the students working for the school's television station, Peterson said he's excited to find a larger studio in Gonzmart Hall.
"It's momentous to be a part of the occasion," Peterson said. "(The building) will offer a better newsroom, especially since we'll have the equivalent of three classrooms now versus our one small class."
Reflecting on how far he has come, Gonzmart hopes the new building will help young men achieve their dreams and take advantage of the education they receive at Jesuit.
"My life is a dream and I hope I'm taking advantage and creating an example for children and helping others," Gonzmart said. "I know I have done everything I can, but I'll always ask what else can I do?"
Contact Katelyn Massarelli at kmassarelli@tampabay.com.
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