Written by Genevieve Bowen on October 15, 2025
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Madeline Pumariega’s journey in higher education began as a student at Miami Dade College, where she discovered a passion for learning and service that would shape her career. Raised in Miami, she quickly distinguished herself through dedication and leadership, ultimately returning to her alma mater in a professional capacity, rising through positions of increasing responsibility over two decades, including serving as president of the Wolfson Campus.
Her deep ties to the college and commitment to student success laid the foundation for a historic appointment in November 2020, when she became the fifth president of Miami Dade College and the first woman to lead one of the nation’s largest higher education institutions.
Before returning to MDC, Ms. Pumariega also made history as the first female and Hispanic chancellor of the Florida College System, where she spearheaded initiatives to maintain accessibility and affordability for students across the state, while strengthening programs in high-demand career fields.
She also held leadership roles at Tallahassee Community College and led the statewide nonprofit Take Stock in Children, cementing her reputation as an advocate for student opportunity and upward economic mobility.
Over her first five years as MDC president, Ms. Pumariega has overseen transformative growth and innovation. Enrollment has increased steadily, with notable expansion in programs such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, nursing and construction trades. Dual enrollment courses have connected nearly 20,000 students to college-level coursework while saving families about $17 million in tuition. The college’s industry certifications, degree production and workforce partnerships have flourished, reflecting MDC’s role as an economic engine in Miami-Dade County with a $5 billion impact.
Ms. Pumariega has also championed the integration of a culture of care across campuses, earning MDC recognition as a “Great College to Work For.”
Strategic initiatives include artificial intelligence centers, aerospace and aviation programs, and health care pathways, including dental hygiene and nursing credentials. Partnerships with MasTec, Google and FIFA have further positioned students to access career opportunities locally and globally, including internships and full-time roles tied to the 2026 World Cup.
This year, MDC celebrates the 100th anniversary of the Freedom Tower, which Ms. Pumariega has guided through a major revitalization. The new “Libertad” exhibit chronicles Miami’s history, highlighting the city’s diverse community and spirit of resilience, while the FIFA and “Unidad: The World’s Game” exhibits showcase the global reach of sport and culture.
Looking ahead, Ms. Pumariega is focused on the MDC 2030 strategic plan, which will guide the college’s direction through 2030. Emphasizing academic excellence, innovation, workforce alignment and global engagement, the plan seeks to strengthen pathways from high school to career and ensure MDC remains a transformative force in the community.
For Ms. Pumariega, the next chapter is about building on successes, harnessing technology and partnerships, and empowering students to transform their lives – continuing a career-long mission of opening doors and shaping futures.
Ms. Pumariega spoke with Miami Today reporter Genevieve Bowen.
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