Eduardo J. Padrón
President
Office of the President
300 N.E. Second Avenue
Miami, Florida 33132-2297
305-237-3316
epadron@mdc.edu
Message From the President
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Gratitude and Opportunity
Since the beginning of November, many people have been participating in the "Month of Thanks" challenge, taking time each day to share with others something for which they are grateful. The top spot on my personal list of what I am most thankful for is occupied by people — my family, friends, colleagues and students who add so much to my day-to-day life.
Also near the top of my list is my gratitude for the opportunities I have been given. I am fortunate to have found my passion at Miami Dade College early in my career, and to have the opportunity to work at a place I love, doing a job that inspires me every day. I am equally grateful to see how opportunity transforms the lives of others at the College, especially the lives of students. Knowing that I am able to play a part in extending educational access provides me with a constant source of gratitude.
I am also thankful for the changes that I see in our country's educational landscape. Community colleges have been traditionally undervalued in higher education, but the achievements of our students, alumni, faculty and staff have helped to elevate the status of our institution. We have always known that MDC provides an exceptional education and preparation for successful careers, and this fact is now recognized by our nation's leaders. I am thankful that MDC has earned the respect it deserves, and I am grateful to hear our students and graduates proudly say, "I am MDC."
As Thanksgiving nears, I encourage you to develop your own gratitude list, and to take the time to thank those who make a difference in your life. I would like to thank all of you for making MDC such a wonderful place to work and study, and for the difference that you make in our community.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and your loved ones.
Eduardo