Tom Llamas made history this year as the first Latino anchor of an American weekday nightly news broadcast when he was named anchor and managing editor of “NBC Nightly News.” Following the retirement of Lester Holt, Llamas also assumed the role of anchor for “Top Story” on “NBC News NOW.”
A Miami native and son of Cuban immigrants, Llamas credits his success to the strong academic and faith-based foundation he received at Belen Jesuit Preparatory School. During a recent interview, he expressed gratitude to the school, mentioning that one of his first calls after his promotion was to its rector/president, Father Guillermo García-Tuñón. “So much of what I am today is because of Belen,” he said, highlighting the significant influence the institution has had on his growth as both a journalist and an individual.
Reflecting on his time at Belen, Llamas acknowledged the school’s challenging academic environment and competitive atmosphere, which fostered his drive for excellence. He emphasized that Belen also played a crucial role in deepening his Catholic faith, with opportunities for daily Mass right on campus contributing to his spiritual growth.
Llamas recently hosted a “fireside chat” at Belen to engage with the student body and share his experiences. He explained that his involvement in debate and drama during his high school years helped him develop essential skills for communication and public speaking, which are vital in journalism. His experiences at Belen shaped his understanding of the importance of credibility in news reporting and the responsibility of journalists to build trust with their audience.
He offered advice to aspiring journalists, urging them to stay curious, consume diverse news sources, and engage with civic affairs—qualities that he believes are essential for a successful career in journalism.
It’s worth noting that Llamas is not the only distinguished alumnus from Belen; Cesar Conde, the chairman of NBCUniversal News Group, is also a graduate. This connection to prominent figures in the media industry adds to the pride of the school community and showcases its history of cultivating talent.
As Llamas steps into his new role, he carries with him the lessons and values instilled in him by Belen Jesuit Preparatory School, remaining committed to high journalistic standards and service to the community. His story serves as inspiration for future generations, illustrating how education and faith can converge to shape impactful careers.
Llamas’s journey underscores the importance of community and the role of education in individual success, reminding us of the powerful influence that schools can have on their students’ futures.