Marta Gisela Serrano

This year marks the 40th anniversary of my graduation from Conchita Espinosa Academy (CEA). I am so proud to have attended this amazing school. When I think of CEA, I think about how well their teachers and their curriculum prepared me for future academic success. CEA played a major role in making me who I am today, through their complete and well-rounded educational program as well as their emphasis in promoting self-discipline and respect.

After graduating from CEA, I attended La Progresiva High School and graduated a year early in 1980. From there, I attended Miami-Dade College and Florida International University (FIU), from where I graduated in 1984. Some of the honors I received were Phi Theta Kappa, Talent Roster of Outstanding Minority Students, and Psi Chi National Honor Society. I have two graduate degrees, a Master of Public Administration from FIU and a Master of Library and Information Science from the University of South Florida. Although it was not my original intention, I fell in love with academia and FIU became my life-long career. I currently work in administration as an Associate Director of Administrative Services.

As the 40th anniversary of my graduation approached, I went on Facebook for the first time with the sole purpose of connecting with my fellow graduating class members. It has been a fantastic experience to reconnect with my classmates after 40 years. I am grateful to Conchita for the foundation I was given and the lifelong friendships that resulted.

Class of 1977