Amplify! Top 100 LatinX Leader

Congratulations to Mrs. Aliali (Silverio '97) Belkus, Central Catholic's Dean of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion, who was recently recognized for championing the Latino community and for her service and leadership by Amplify LatinX at the inaugural ALX100 Awards.

The award presentation, which took place at Boston Public Library on September 14, 2023, honored exceptional Latinx leaders across Massachusetts who have demonstrated outstanding excellence and made significant contributions in their respective fields and communities.

About the ALX100 Awards

The ALX100 Awards recognize exceptional Latinx leaders across Massachusetts who have demonstrated outstanding excellence and made significant contributions in their respective fields and communities. From unsung heroes to civic leaders to business trailblazers, we celebrate 100 of the brightest Latinx changemakers from across the commonwealth.

"It feels wonderful to have the work that I’ve done in our community recognized," said Mrs. Belkus. "I’ve had the privilege of education and I want to be a conduit for others to have access to that same privilege and opportunity."

“Having so many positive role models has allowed me to advocate for my community, and I want to share that with my students and work to advocate for their families so they can support their students through the journey. It’s not work, because I truly enjoy helping people."

In addition to her important duties as Dean of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Central Catholic, Mrs. Belkus serves as the moderator for SCOPE, (Students Can Open People's Eyes), a club that focuses on the celebration of diversity and multiculturalism. 

"I strongly believe in Central Catholic's mission of making Jesus known and loved and educating the whole person for college and for life, with particular care for the least favored and those in need," said Mrs. Belkus.

"The diversity of Central’s student body, the dedication of our teachers, and the commitment of the administration, creates a positive school culture that instills lasting values in young people. CCHS positively impacted my life, and I always encourage our students to bring their authentic selves to school every day."

Mrs. Belkus makes time to support many community organizations throughout the City of Lawrence. She also has a wide community connection, collaborating with various organizations including Merrimack College, where she has collaborated to bring the Be the CAUSE Diversity and Leadership Training to CCHS students, faculty, and staff.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in communication and media studies from Sacred Heart University, a master’s degree in English, an ESL Certification from UMASS Boston, and she is currently pursuing a CAGS in Educational Leadership and Management from Fitchburg State University.

“The Central Catholic community is particularly proud of Mrs. Belkus!" said Mr. Christopher F. Sullivan '81, CCHS President. "Her work continues to enrich the lives of young people, and she is a role model for our students, a resource for our staff, and a loving daily reminder that our young people can and will make our world a better place. Mrs. Belkus is very deserving of this special honor, and I am proud to call her my colleague and my friend."

Mrs. Belkus is also part of a strong Raider legacy with her husband Jason Belkus '97, her brother Evan Silverio '98, and her son Jason D. Belkus '23. Her mother, Mrs. Julia Silverio, is a former member of the Central Catholic Board of Directors.

 

About Amplify LatinX

Amplify LatinX is a 501c3 nonprofit, non-partisan collaborative convener that is advancing a new era of Latinx prosperity by expanding Latinx leadership across sectors, galvanizing legislative and public support, and championing continual economic mobility. 

About the ALX100 Awards - Honoring 100 Local Latinx Leaders

Our Amplifiers are leaders, risk-takers, quiet disruptors, and outspoken advocates from all industry sectors, who inspire us each day to uplift our Latinx community. Their stories encompass a highly diverse group of incredible people with distinct histories, professions, cultures, languages, traditions, and identities.

From unsung heroes to professional athletes to business leaders — Amplify LatinX is honoring and convening 100 of the brightest Latinx leaders from across the commonwealth.

 

Another Raider Recognized

Mrs. Aliali (Silverio '97) Belkus wasn't the only Raider who received an inaugural ALX100 Award from Amplify LatinX.

Congratulations to Mrs. Isis J. Ortiz-Belton '05, a Vice President at Eastern Bank and the President of the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) Boston.

Mrs. Ortiz-Belton is also a recipient of a Central Catholic High School Champagnat Award for her achievements! She was presented with the St. Théresè of Lisieux Alumni Award in 2022.