Barry University Athletics

B. Boyd "Ben" Benjamin spent many years devoting his personal time and energy to serve both Barry University and the Miami community.  As a member of the Board of Trustees of Barry University and special assistant to President Sr. Jeanne O’Laughlin, Benjamin helped to ensure Barry’s financial future. He was also instrumental in finding financial assistance for the many students who came to him for help.

Benjamin was a tremendous supporter of the Barry athletic program. He joined Sr. Jeanne in the development of Barry’s athletic department in the early 1980s and continued to provide administrative guidance as the Buccaneers became affiliated with the NCAA and the Sunshine State Conference. He was also a great fan of Buccaneer athletics, taking great pride in Barry’s academic support of its student-athletes. One of his proudest accomplishments was being able to bring Dr. G. Jean Cerra, current Director of Athletics, to Barry University.

He spent many years devoted to making the Miami community a better place. His contributions to the Miami area were - and continue to be - invaluable. Benjamin was chairman of the Public Health Trust that oversees Jackson Memorial Hospital.  As founding chairman of the Jackson Foundation, Benjamin spearheaded the nearly impossible task of raising $28 million to build the Ryder Trauma Center that saves countless lives in our community every day.

He also served as president of the Orange Bowl Committee in 1964, remaining as one of the OB’s best ambassadors long after his term. Benjamin was actively involved in Boy’s Town, United Way, Miami Rotary, Dade County Red Cross, Museum of Science, and the Dade County Regional Planning Board.