Clubs & Activities

Moderator: Josh Cantor - jcantor@columbushs.com

Purpose: The goal of the club is to increase the knowledge and understanding of exercise programs and their effect on the body.  We meet to discuss training programs and assign members different students to train. This helps keep the wellness center operating in a safe and effective manner.

Moderator: Elizabeth Hernandez - elizabeth.hernandez@columbushs.com

Purpose: Hearts for Children is more than just a club, it’s a mission to bring hope and kindness to children who need it the most. Many kids go without basic necessities, support, or even a sense of belonging. Our goal is to change that. Through fundraisers, donation drives, and volunteer events, we provide not just material aid, but also compassion, presence, and a reminder that they are not alone.

Guided by the Marist pillars, we believe that small acts of kindness can make a lasting impact. Whether it’s organizing toy and clothing drives, hosting charity events, or simply spending time with these children, we strive to make them feel valued and supported. At Hearts for Children, we don’t just give; we connect, uplift, and inspire!

Moderator: Kevin Davis - kdavis@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Herpetology & Animal Observation Club is to provide students with opportunities to observe, identify, and learn about reptiles, amphibians, and other wildlife in South Florida. The club promotes environmental awareness, responsible wildlife observation, and appreciation for the unique ecosystems of the Everglades and surrounding areas.

Moderator: Robert Lewis - robert.lewis@columbushs.com

Purpose: To promote an appreciation of ice hockey and play the sport as a team of enthusiasts. 

Moderator: Adriana Amador - aamador@columbushs.com

Purpose: This club aims to increase awareness about Native American cultures, traditions, and history and help support Native American communities in need. We want to celebrate and educate others about Native American tribes and their people. 

Moderators: Andrew Harriman - aharriman@columbushs.com and Richard Amador - richard.amador@columbushs.com

Purpose: Whether you are new to Columbus or approaching graduation, Intramural Sports is an opportunity to make new friends or hang out with old ones. The Intramural Sports program has been expanded this year in order to provide additional opportunities for students to get involved. Currently, the program includes 3-on-3 basketball, flag football, ultimate frisbee and soccer. There is something for everyone! 

Moderator: Valentina Medico - valentina.medico@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Italian Club’s mission is to introduce students to the Italian culture through fun, educational, and engaging activities. Through Italian-oriented activities such as film screenings, games, cultural events, and community service, the club will help students learn about Italy while creating a welcoming environment for everyone. As the first Italian Club at our school, we aim to build a strong community that celebrates Italian culture and encourages students to explore it beyond the classroom. This club is open to everyone.

Moderators: Gabriel de Tuya - gdetuya@columbushs.com

Purpose: To provide a safe way for students to learn both self-defense and the sport of jiu jitsu. We provide bi-weekly practices, offer competition opportunities, and have alumni/faculty classes as well.

Moderator: Josh Cantor - jcantor@columbushs.com

Purpose: Students will participate in activities that support the Castaway cause. They will help staff events, garner support for activities, and assist in other means. There will also be an internship and externship component where students can learn from members of the Castaways for non-profit skill sets and from UM staff about medical care. 

Moderator: 
Andrew Chacon - achacon@columbushs.com

Advisor: 
Br. Eladio Gonzalez - agonzalez@columbushs.com

Purpose: Key Club is the oldest and largest service program for high school students. The club is so successful because it is a student-led organization that teaches leadership through serving others. Members of the Key Club members build themselves as they build their schools and communities.

Moderator: Arlene Clute - arlene.clute@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Lego Explorers Club is to gather Lego aficionados, to help students gain communicative and collaborative skills. The club will also help students to develop fine motor skills. Using a wide variety of Lego techniques and pieces to develop a finished product. Lego can improve creativity and imagination and allows students to explore and create without limitations.

Moderators: Jeannette Gonzalez-Rojas - jgonzalez-rojas@columbushs.com and Belkis Llontop - bllontop@columbushs.com

Purpose: Columbus' LINK (Learning about Inclusion and Nurturing with Kindness) Club's mission of this club is to create awareness, respect, and opportunities for individuals with disabilities. Our club volunteers with students with special needs in our community. We are advocates for Inclusion.

Moderator: Emmanuel Gonzalez - emmanuel.gonzalez@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Columbus Mental Health and Awareness Club aims to create a safe and supportive space for individuals to openly discuss potential health challenges, share experiences, and learn effective coping strategies.

Moderators: Sylvie Galvez-Cuesta - sgalvez-cuesta@columbushs.com and Steve O'Brien - sobrien@columbushs.com

Purpose:
Columbus' Mindfulness Club is designed to introduce mindfulness to our school community. Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and helps us not be overwhelmed by what’s going on around us. At club meetings we will learn about the practice and we will be incorporating techniques into our weekly mindfulness meetings, so that students have the tools to do these on their own. The mission of this club is to empower students with the gift of mindfulness in their own lives to live a more balanced and stress free existence. 

Moderators: Dr. Sharifah Lee - slee@columbushs.com and Jada Brinson - jbrinson@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Mock Trial Team competes at the district, regionals, state, and national level. The maximum number of students who can be on a team is 13. The regular season commences in October (when case is released) and ends in February. They meet 2x per week (Oct - Dec.).   Beginning in January until the District Competition they meet 4x per week. Students are asked to pay $15 dues and conduct fundraisers to cover lunch, registration fees and miscellaneous expenses.  

Moderator: Gabriel Llerena - gllerena@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of Model United Nations (MUN) is to teach younger audiences both the problem-solving and diplomatic skills that can be seen both in the United Nations and any professional environment, which can prove to be useful later on in life. MUN teaches kids some of the intricacies involved in foreign relations and provides a unique point of view on the world that no other club offers. Additionally, MUN isn’t just serious topics on global relations and has a wide array of things that any student can have fun with. From a council of pirates to a nation at war, MUN can take on many forms. It appeals to kids who enjoy writing, history, politics, geography, sociology, fiction, or in fact nearly any subject. For these reasons and many more is why MUN is fun.

Moderator: Chris Ventura - cventura@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Ninja Warrior Club is to promote health and wellness in our student body while also promoting camaraderie. 

Moderator: Dr. E. Carter Burrus - cburrus@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Christopher Columbus High School Patriot Club is dedicated to supporting the brave men and women who currently serve our great nation and who have served in the past and are now our treasured veterans. We have a number of CCHS alumni who have served in our nation's armed forces and the Patriot Club coordinates events and efforts to support those here and abroad.

Moderator: Lourdes Cofresi - lcofresi@columbushs.com

Purpose: 

Moderator: Paul Kumer - pkumer@columbushs.com

Purpose: This club will serve a twofold purpose: first, to introduce the broader student body to the process of philosophical thinking, with the hopes of sparking an interest in the subject, and second, to provide a dedicated space for those already passionate about philosophy. Through this club, we aim to promote critical thinking and systems thinking, diversity of opinion, consideration of the questions we all face. 

Moderator: David Ulloa - dulloa@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of this club is to provide students with an opportunity to learn about photography and hone their skills. It also allows students to work with others with similar interests. 

Moderators: Kevin Corazon - kcorazon@columbushs.com and Roger Bowman - rbowman@columbushs.com

Purpose: Welcome to the exciting world of the Pickleball Club at CCHS! Our club brings together students who are passionate about staying active, making new friends, and having a blast on the court. Whether you're a seasoned pickleball player or completely new to the game, our club offers a welcoming environment for everyone. Our mission is to promote physical fitness, sportsmanship, teamwork, and social interaction among high school students through the game of pickleball. We aim to provide a platform where students can learn, practice, and compete in this fast-growing and engaging sport while fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support. 

Moderator: Rich Amador - richard.amador@columbushs.com

Purpose: Pink Club is a student-led organization that supports women receiving free breast cancer treatment at the Ortiz Gurdián Foundation in Nicaragua. The club pairs students with women at the clinic to exchange letters throughout the year, giving the women emotional support during chemotherapy while also fostering cultural exchange. To further help, Pink Club raises money and collects donations to provide comfort items such as blankets, beanies, and pillows. Fundraisers are a key part of the club’s work and the pink club hosted a casino night fundraiser last year which raised over $6,000 for the clinic. Through letters, fundraisers, and donations, Pink Club uplifts women in need while teaching students the value of compassion and service.

Moderator: Arlene Clute - arlene.clute@columbushs.com

Purpose: This club will introduce students to different fields of dentistry and will get them interested in pursuing a career in any of these fields. 

Moderator:  Dr. Sharifah Lee - slee@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The Pre-Law Club features guest speakers from different areas of the law profession. The purpose of the club is to inform CCHS students on how to become an attorney and get them better acquainted with the profession.

Moderator: Elizabeth Hernandez - elizabeth.hernandez@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The Pre-Med Club at Columbus is dedicated to students who are passionate about pursuing careers in medicine, healthcare, and the life sciences. The club provides hands-on experiences and learning opportunities to help students explore various medical fields. Throughout the year, members can participate in field trips to local hospitals, medical schools, and research labs, where they get to observe professionals in action. The club also hosts guest speakers, including doctors, nurses, and medical researchers, who share insights into their careers. Other activities include organizing first-aid workshops, attending medical conferences, and participating in health-related community service projects. The Pre-Med Club aims to inspire future healthcare professionals and provide a head start on their medical journey.

Moderator: Amy Mallafre - amallafre@columbushs.com

Purpose: Welcome to Project BloodSugar! Our club is dedicated to increasing awareness about diabetes while actively creating a positive impact.  Our mission goes beyond just raising awareness; we are committed to making a real difference in the lives of those in need.  With a focus on helping diabetics across the globe, our club serves as a supportive community that extends a helping hand to those who require assistance. We aim to transform the lives of individuals affected by diabetes and pave the way for a healthier future. 

Moderator: Matthew Deville - mdeville@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of Project H.O.P.E. is to help dog/animal shelters around Miami, donate money, food, and toys to shelters, and give dogs in shelters more comfortable lives. We will also work to raise awareness about foster dogs and potentially give them a home. 

Moderator: Lourdes Rayneri - lrayneri@columbushs.com

Purpose: PAWS is a club for those who share a passion for dogs and their health. The purpose of the PAWS Club is to raise awareness for canine cancer through fundraising in the form of selling merchandise. Proceeds from the fundraising are sent to the AKC Canine Health Foundation to advance research in various fields of cancer found in dogs. Along with raising money, the PAWS Club will educate its members on the importance of canine health through guest speakers and field trips throughout the year. 

Moderator: Betty Vinson - bvinson@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The Real Estate Explorer (REX) Club for Columbus students will serve as an educational resource and practical approach to introduce students to the real estate industry. The primary purpose will be to help students develop the necessary knowledge of real estate, business, and finance, with the ultimate goal of preparing them to take the Florida Real Estate Sales Associate licensing exam once all requirements have been met.

Moderator: Deacon Jim Dugard - jdugard@columbushs.com 

Purpose: Our mission is to foster a deeper understanding of the inherent worth of all life, inspiring open dialogue and fostering a culture that upholds the sanctity of life in all its forms. Through education, compassionate outreach, and active engagement, we strive to be a voice for the voiceless, advocating for the protection of the unborn, the elderly, the marginalized, and the vulnerable.

Guided by the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, and our Marist charism, we endeavor to cultivate an environment where the respect for life is not merely a slogan but a guiding principle. We aim to nurture a community that supports expectant mothers and families facing challenges, provides resources for adoption, and offers solace to those affected by the pain of abortion.

As members of the Christopher Columbus High School Respect Life Club, we are dedicated to fostering a society where love triumphs over indifference, and where every life is cherished and celebrated. In our pursuit of a culture of life, we aim to ignite a transformation that ripples outwards, inspiring our community to stand up for the defenseless and to embrace the divine gift of life at every stage. Through unity, compassion, and unwavering dedication, we pledge to be ambassadors of change, building a world where the sanctity of life is upheld, protected, and celebrated.

Moderator: Maria Romero - maria.romero@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of this club is to provide academic assistance to Columbus students. Members will complete volunteer work such as aiding students unable to afford tutoring at low-income schools. 

Moderator: Tony Oses - aoses@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Columbus Robotics Club is to develop students' interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) through robotics competitions and other projects.  Robotics competitions such as VEX, First, Battlebots, Siemens, Google Stem Fair, and Drone Racing League not only help promote and foster student's interest in STEM, but help develop life skills in the areas of leadership, teamwork, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence; all in an environment with like-minded individuals.  The Columbus Robotics Club provides a place where all students, especially those with an inclination for technology, can thrive.   We hope to attract and inspire students who never thought they could do this kind of work, and to encourage students to explore career alternatives.

Moderator: Andres Gonzalez - agonzalez@columbushs.com

Purpose: To create and organize rock climbing events with those who enjoy this hobby.

Club Moderator:
Andres Gonzalez - agonzalez@columbushs.com

Purpose: SADD’s mission is to empower young people to successfully confront the risks and pressures that challenge them throughout their daily lives. SADD fosters a sense of belonging and promotes resiliency, leadership, and advocacy skills so that young people make positive life decisions that will carry them throughout life.

Moderator: Keith Cooper - kcooper@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Sailing Club is to inspire a passion for sailing and foster a community on and off the water. 

Moderators: Keith Cooper - kcooper@columbushs.com and Katie Essig - kessig@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Scuba Diving club is to provide students who are interested in diving an opportunity to learn more about diving and to experience scuba diving with others who enjoy it.

Moderator: Alejandro Levy – alevy@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Self Defense Club teaches students the fundamentals of self-defense through martial arts in a safe and controlled environment. The club focuses on building confidence, discipline, and practical skills while promoting respect and responsibility among its members.

Moderator: Chris Ventura - cventura@columbushs.com 

Purpose: To create a community of like minded individuals who enjoy the act and history of skateboarding. Members will gather at local skate spots to skate as well as work on creating video footage for skate videos.

Moderator: Adriana Amador - aamador@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose and objective of the Soccer Club is to make soccer available to people. 

Moderator: Daniella Rodriguez - daniella.rodriguez@columbushs.com

Purpose: Sound for Service is a student-led organization providing free DJ services for school and community events while teaching students the fundamentals of DJing. 

Moderators: Marylin Romero - mromero@columbushs.com and Chantal Berthet - cberthet@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Spanish Club is dedicated to promoting and fostering curiosity, appreciation, and continuous interest in the Spanish language and Hispanic & Latin culture. The club provides an opportunity for Explorers regardless of language skill and/or background to meet, socialize and develop friendships while sharing and/or increasing their knowledge and awareness of the Spanish-Speaking world through various after-school activities such as but not limited to cultural events and discussions, movie days, restaurant trips, museums visits, community engagement and so much more!

Moderator: Mike Dukes - mdukes@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The Columbus Spearfishing Club provides an opportunity for the students to be able to participate in a range of activities. This club will give the students, who are interested, a chance to explore Florida open waters. The club members meet monthly for activity scheduling. Note that most trips will require a saltwater license. It is the responsibility of the angler to have their license with them during those trips. The benefits of the club not only pertain to the recreational aspect of spearfishing but would also benefit the students in an academic aspect as well.

Moderators: Br. Eladio Gonzalez - egonzalez@columbushs.com and Robert Lewis - robert.lewis@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The Squires Club is dedicated to helping young men grow into leaders of character by enhancing their opportunities in life through leadership development, moral guidance, and service. Rooted in the values of faith, integrity, and responsibility, the club empowers its members to build confidence, strengthen their character, and prepare for future success. Through a wide variety of activities, service projects, and leadership experiences, Squires are challenged to make a positive impact in their school, community, and beyond.

Moderator: Jorge Garrigo - jgarrigo@columbushs.com

Purpose: To create a bully-free environment for all CCHS students.

Moderator: Maria Romero - maria.romero@columbushs.com

Purpose: The STEM Club aims to foster curiosity, creativity, and innovation in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Through hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and real-world problem solving, the club provides students with opportunities to explore STEM concepts beyond the classroom, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and inspire a lifelong passion for STEM related careers. Participating in the STEM Club will also help students earn the required hours and experience necessary for induction into the National STEM Honor Society. 

Moderator: Chris Ventura - cventura@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of this club is to introduce students to the fundamentals of trading and the stock market. It aims to provide financial literacy, develop analytical thinking, and encourage teamwork and responsibility. 

Moderators: Melissa Alonso (Director) - malonso@columbushs.com, Daniel Rivero - drivero@columbushs.com and Maria Romero - mromero@columbushs.com

Purpose: SAC is at the heart of student life at Columbus and is made up of an elected Student Council Board representing each grade level; in a nutshell SAC is run by students for the students. SAC is responsible for organizing and putting on our opening school year dance come to be known as “Beach Bash.” It is further responsible for school spirit, organizing pep rallies for football games as well as basketball and other sports. SAC is there to rally the students at all sporting events accompanied by our very own mascot “Mr. Explorer”. SAC organizes and runs Homecoming Week and all its activities as well as the Homecoming Dance in the fall. Spring brings the much cherished “Battle of the Sexes” talent show against our sister school OLLA, which always brings the best talent to the stage. The board assists the moderator with organizing the class trips for all grade levels including the very much anticipated Grad Bash for seniors at Universal Orlando, Florida.  To culminate a year full of activities the senior SAC board and ex-officio members help choose a theme and organize the Senior Prom.  As the academic year comes to a close a new group of explorers step up and run for office on the SAC board. The SAC board members work in close connection with the SAC Club members and organize several service oriented projects both on and off campus, such as the very successful annual Turkey Drive and the Toy Drive. SAC allots the opportunity for every student to participate and encourages each explorer to join the vast number of clubs and activities. SAC strives to make your four years at Columbus the most spirit filled experience to be had.

Moderator: Armando Rodriguez - arodriguez@columbushs.com

Purpose: The Students for the Exploration and Development of Space (SEDS) is an international student organization whose purpose is to promote space exploration and development. SEDS is the largest STEAM student space organization providing a platform for ALL students to pursue their ambition of space exploration and develop future leaders in the expanding space industry.

SEDS chapters are inspiring an entirely new generation to make tomorrow happen through educational and engineering projects, outreach, and other exciting endeavors. Columbus SEDS is the local chapter of SEDS at CCHS. Members benefit from opportunities to participate in STEM based activities, competitions and field trips in aerospace, rocketry, coding and robotics.

Moderator: Keith Cooper - kcooper@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The high school surfing club is a group of students who share a passion for surfing and embracing the ocean. Fueled by their love for the sport and the coastal lifestyle, club members gather regularly to improve their surfing skills, and connect with like-minded peers. The club not only offers an opportunity to learn and refine surfing techniques but also promotes environmental awareness and ocean conservation.

Moderator: Joshua Cantor - jcantor@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of this club is to raise awareness for people with physical disabilities caused by injuries, to raise funds for the Swim with Mike Foundation, to begin injury prevention initiatives, and to offer community service opportunities. 

Moderator: Jordan Guest - jordan.guest@columbushs.com

Purpose: Educate elders and children about health, nutrition and physiology (how a healthier diet and being more active will improve longevity and their mental/physical wellbeing). 

Moderator: Michael Marinelli - mmarinelli@columbushs.com

Purpose: To support Columbus athletic teams at both home and away events, building school spirit and unity. Members will actively cheer on teams through instruments, chants, and organized support, representing the school with pride.

Moderator: Joseph Busatto - jbusatto@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The school newspaper, always on top of the latest stories, keeps the student body aware of the activities of the school. With different sections it also includes students’ opinions of local and national events. Becoming involved in The Log exposes students to journalism issues as well as fostering a sense of community.

The Log (view the latest issue here)

Moderator: Chris Ventura - cventura@columbushs.com

Purpose: Ultimate Frisbee Club is a group formed by students who share a passion for the game of Ultimate Frisbee. These students gather together on a weekly basis and play Ultimate Frisbee games together, participate in outside tournaments, as well as organize games against Alumni athletes.

Moderator: Br. Robert Dittus - rdittus@columbushs.com 

Purpose: The USNSCC is a student-led organization dedicated to developing character, leadership, and citizenship through meaningful service to our nation's veterans and their families. Anchored in the proud traditions and core values of the United States Navy and inspired by the Naval Sea Cadets program, our squadron fosters discipline, teamwork, and honor while providing students with authentic opportunities to give back to those who have served our country with distinction.

Moderator: Matthew DeVille - mdeville@columbushs.com 

Purpose: Is to make a positive impact in the lives of teenagers by providing them with the opportunity to serve their communities in ways that align with their passions. Through a series of outstanding events held throughout the school year, the club creates an environment where young individuals can actively contribute and make a difference. By engaging in meaningful community service experiences, the VIP Connect Club empowers teenagers to grow personally and develop a lifelong commitment to serving others.

Moderator: Javier Hermida - jhermida@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of the Wakeboarding Club is to allow students to wakeboard for their own leisure/fun at Miami Watersports Complex in Hialeah. Students in the club will have meetups every month at the park. This will allow interested students to be introduced to wakeboarding and allow students to explore their love of wakeboarding. 

Moderator: Maria Romero - maria.romero@columbushs.com

Purpose: The purpose of this club is to educate its members regarding the luxury watch market so that they can become wise investors in watches in the future. Additionally, this club hopes to allow its members to become more knowledgeable with regards to a watch's mechanics and inner workings. The passion piece behind this club is the "Time for Math" component, which allows the club's members to reach out and assist the underprivileged in mathematics since watches are truly a science of numbers.

Moderator: Kevin Davis - kdavis@columbushs.com

Purpose: To bring students together to have fun and bond with each other while playing wiffle ball.