Sitting here in the Museum of Art and Design (MOAD) at Miami Dade College, I often think about how I ended up in this role. My journey to being part of this team, focused on preserving the historic Freedom Tower, was not a straight line, but it all feels like it was meant to be. The Freedom Tower, with its echoes of history and personal stories, aligns with everything I’m passionate about.
One story that really struck me was about a woman who fled Cuba, bringing only a crystal candy dish with her. She thought she’d return someday, but that day never came. That dish is more than an object; it’s a narrative of hope and survival, and witnessing that made me truly understand our mission’s significance.
My love for the arts took root when I first saw Bouguereau’s painting “The Abduction of Psyche” as a kid in Montreal. It left a lasting impact on me, reminding me how powerful art can be. This passion aligns perfectly with MOAD’s focus, and it’s a fire I bring to my job every day.
Before this, I never imagined working in museums or in marketing. I had planned to stay in hospitality forever. But after an opportunity arose to present a project for a bank, I discovered a knack for marketing that I didn’t know I had. That project changed my career path completely. A friend later pointed me towards this role at MOAD, and the fit was immediate.
Reflecting on past advice, my mentor’s words still ring true: always ask for what you want. It’s a principle I carry with me, especially now, dealing with the challenges and tight deadlines that come with marketing. In fact, it fueled my response when I was trying to preserve oral histories at the Freedom Tower—stories that must not be lost.
There was a memorable moment at a wellness resort earlier in my career, where a guest told me that I literally saved his life. Those are the moments that truly emphasize the impact one can have through their work.
Personally and professionally, this job has changed me. It has broadened my understanding of the arts and the non-profit sector and has given me more opportunities to travel and learn from other cultures. My hope is that, through my work, the Freedom Tower continues to stand as a beacon of history and inspiration for at least another century. It’s about preserving the stories and ensuring they inspire future generations, one exhibit at a time. That’s why I’m here, weaving together the threads of past and present, making sure these significant stories endure.