Raúl and Nidia Rodríguez were born in Cuba and got married in 1976.
Before meeting Nidia, Raúl was a Cuban Air Force pilot during World War II and bravely patrolled the coast from submarine threats. After his service, he entered the business world and traveled throughout Latin America, eventually establishing a chain of appliance and television stores called Corvet in Venezuela.
In the mid-1960s, Raúl moved to Miami and embarked on a new chapter in his life. He invested in Lil’ Abner Mobile Home Park, which laid the groundwork for a thriving real estate empire.
Nidia was 16 when her parents sent her to live in Miami. Forging her path, she soon moved to Nicaragua to work at a convent before returning to Miami in the 1970s.
It wasn’t long before Nidia and Raúl met, and their partnership grew in love, mutual respect, and shared values. Their son Raúl was born in 1978 into a loving, faith-filled home and is a proud member of the class of 1997. Always involved in their son’s life, they became committed to supporting Belen. In 1999, their generosity led to the construction of the science building, which was named in their honor the Raúl and Nidia Rodríguez Science Pavilion.
Their passion for helping others led Raúl to establish the Rayni Foundation, which is dedicated to empowering children through education. Over the years, the foundation has awarded over 1,000 scholarships, allowing young minds to pursue their dreams and shape a brighter future.
Raúl served on the Belen Board of Advisors for many years and they gave generously to the financial assistance program.
In 2010, Raúl passed away, leaving a legacy of inspiration and service to others to his son and grandchildren.
Nidia continued to support Belen by contributing to the construction of the Multimedia Center, where the Raúl and Nidia Rodríguez Control Room was named in their honor.
Together, they contributed their time, resources, and unwavering support to the school, leaving an indelible mark on its legacy.
Nidia passed away in 2023, having lived a life of generosity and dedication to others.
They are inducted into the Belen Hall of Fame, class of 2024.
