A Southwestern University education is a passport to global opportunities—a fact Javier Riofrio O.´97 knows well.

“Starting my professional life in Peru after graduating in 1997 was perfect timing, as my country was experiencing double-digit economic growth. However, this success wouldn’t have been possible without the liberal arts foundation I gained at SU. It was a combination of being in the right place at the right time and having the essential skills and experience SU provided me as an international student,” Javier reflects.

Born and raised in Lima, Peru, Javier earned a prestigious Fulbright Scholarship to attend Southwestern University in 1993. His time at SU was transformative. Majoring in Economics with an emphasis on developmental economics, he credits professors like Dr. Ken Roberts and Dr. Emily Northrop for shaping his understanding of key topics, including internal migration, informal sectors, social unrest, institutions, and economic change. These principles continue to guide his professional ventures in Peru.

Javier’s involvement at SU extended beyond the classroom. He played on the University’s first varsity soccer team under Coach Eric Wagner, worked in the audiovisual department, and became a lifelong member of the Pi Kappa Alpha fraternity. Reflecting on his time at SU, he says, “The faculty, staff, and enduring friendships I formed at SU provided the best foundation I could have ever hoped for.”

After graduation, Javier began his career with Peru Holding de Turismo, a publicly listed company in Lima. In 2004, he founded ACRES Investments, a holding company with three subsidiaries:

ACRES Finance, a regulated financial services enterprise that securitizes assets, structures private and public bonds, financing companies through the capital markets.

Energías Firmes del Perú, which develops renewable energy projects, including hydro, wind, and solar initiatives.

Desarrollo Social Inmobiliario, which focuses on real estate development for informal clusters, providing property rights and affordable housing solutions for families in need.

Javier’s connection to SU has come full circle. Although he first learned about the University through the Fulbright Commission, he and his wife Claudia were confident in their decision to send their twin sons, Diego and Santiago, to his alma mater. Last August, they began their studies as international students, carrying forward the family legacy… times two.