Rene is a Tampa native who began his journey with Tampa Catholic as a student in the 1970's. His freshman class size could not be accommodated by Tampa Catholic's facilities at the time, so they were bused daily to Mary Help of Christians for their first year of high school education. He said that experience allowed his class to bond more closely and grow in friendship early on. Over the next few years, he was a three-year varsity baseball player and a member of the 1976 state championship team. Also, he excelled in mathematics, forming a steady friend group among the others in his math classes. After graduating, he continued his education at Western Kentucky University, where he studied accounting and played collegiate baseball.

Following college, Rene began his career as a CPA working in the audit area with an international firm that later spun off as Rivero Gordimer & Company (RG). He worked there until 1989, when he left to join his father and siblings in a healthcare company. Upon selling that business in 1995 and working with the buyers for several years, Rene returned to Rivero Gordimer & Company, where he spent the balance of his career, leading valuation and advisory work.  

In addition to his extensive career, Rene and his wife, Mary, are parishioners who are deeply involved at their parish of St. Lawrence Catholic Church in Tampa. Those who attend the 10:00 am Mass on Sundays are familiar with their smiling faces greeting them as they enter the church building. Rene and Mary were married at the parish in 1984, and after moving to Brandon for many years, in 2009, they returned to the parish they initially called home and have both now volunteered to lead the greeters ministry at the parish.

Rene has remained closely connected to Tampa Catholic throughout his life. He has served on the Consultative Board since 2013, and as Board Chairman since 2016. In 2020 he was inducted into the Tampa Catholic Athletic Hall of Fame.

In addition to his professional and service contributions, Rene and his wife, Mary, have generously given back to the school community in meaningful ways. Most recently, they donated a beautiful five-foot-tall statue of the Blessed Mother, now placed in a grotto just outside the baseball field. This peaceful space offers a place for prayer and reflection, and all are warmly invited to visit and spend time there. This donation and his years of service are a testament to his steadfast and deep Catholic faith that is a blessing to witness and see continue to touch the Tampa Catholic community.

Tampa Catholic High School looks forward to welcoming Rene as he inspires the Class of 2026 with a message grounded in Faith, Excellence, and Family.

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