Meet Dr. Anthony Cruz | President, Miami Dade College Hialeah Campus

We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Anthony Cruz and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Anthony, is there something you believe many others might not?
I disagree with the conventional advice that we all need a backup plan or a plan b when establishing our professional or business goals. I believe that a backup plan can interfere and actually hurt reaching our primary goal. Backup plans can give us a sense of false security that can reduce motivation and level of effort. This makes it even more important that our goals are well thought out and focused.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have dedicated my 25 years in higher education to changing lives. I truly believe that a college education has the power to change lives and provide endless opportunities. My college education transformed my life and that of my family. As a first-generation college student, navigating college was not easy and that’s why I have focused my career on increasing educational opportunities, enhancing the student experience and bolstering student success. My growth as a leader and a higher education administrator has been fueled by my yearning to make a difference. My road to professional success has been bumpy with several setbacks. I have relied on my strong sense of perseverance and support from family and mentors to push ahead despite the odds. Success has its price. I know I have sacrificed precious time with my wife and children along the way. As a result, I have gained a greater appreciation for spending quality time with family and friends. Through my career, I have learned that to grow as people and professionals we need to get out of our comfort zones. Do at least one thing every day that makes you feel uncomfortable and you will grow. I consider myself an authentic leader who listens and others can rely on for support and guidance.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
We would have to start by having a media noche and a materva at the iconic Versailles Restaurant on Calle Ocho. I think it would be nice to stick around Calle Ocho and watch some riveting domino games in Domino Park. Later in the evening we can go over to loanDepot Park and watch the Marlins play. At the stadium, we can eat some ceviche and have a few cold beers. The next day, we really need to hit South Beach and get some rays while making sure to take in the sights and sounds on Ocean Drive. We would definitely take in the Art Deco vibe and eat dinner at the historic Carlyle Hotel Cafe on 12th. The next day, I think we should start early by hitting the links and playing nine holes at the Granada Golf Course in Coral Gables. We can walk over to Miracle Mile to have lunch and do some shopping. That night we can go down to Mary Brickell Village and have dinner and drinks at Baire Grill – Argentinian restaurant. We can definitely spend the rest of the evening visiting a few of the bars and restaurants in that area. We would make sure to visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Vizcaya transports you to the Mediterranean with its Mediterranean Revival architecture and Renaissance gardens. You can’t leave Miami without experiencing an Everglades airboat ride. Take in nature and have fun riding around the beautiful Everglades. Our last stop would we the Wynwood Art Walls. Enjoy urban art at its finest and stop by Cerveceria La Tropical for a few cold ones and some tasty bites.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate my shoutout to my wife, Diana Sarmiento-Cruz. We have known each other for 33 years and have been married for 27 years. She is my best friend and greatest supporter. Diana has always encouraged me to reach my fullest potential. She has taught me to appreciate family and how to be a servant leader. My successes and growth as a father, husband, and leader have been fueled by her caring and nurturing spirit.

Instagram: @drcruzmdc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-cruz-ed-d-aa1b0b35

Twitter: @drtcruz