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A Bridge Between Worlds: Dr. Agatha Caraballo's Journey to Civic Leadership
What is your personal/professional story?
I was born in Asuncion, Paraguay to a Brazilian mother and an American father. My father was serving in the Peace Corps when my parents met. My parents moved to the US when I was a baby. I grew up in Northern California where I was raised and attended Santa Rosa Junior College, where I received an Associate of Arts in Communication. In 1999, I moved to Miami as a transfer student, where I completed my Bachelor of Science in Communication at Florida International University's Biscayne Bay Campus.
My early career was spent working for nonprofits and in higher education. I then decided to return to FIU to earn my PhD in Public Affairs. After graduating, I joined the faculty of the Department of Public Policy and Administration. A decade later, I am the Founding Director of the Maurice A. Ferré Institute for Civic Leadership and an Associate Teaching Professor in the Department of Public Policy and Administration at the Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University (FIU). I am also an Affiliate Faculty in the African and African-Diaspora Studies program and the Master of Arts in Global Affairs degree program.
What are some key moments in your life that have contributed to where you are today?
There are a couple of key moments in my life that have contributed to where, and who, I am today. One particularly key moment was meeting my husband in 2000, soon after transferring to Florida International University. Meeting my husband was the main reason I made my permanent home in South Florida. Meeting my husband also led me to create a beautiful and amazing little family.
Another key moment was my decision to go to graduate school in 2008. Going back to school set me on my current career trajectory. Achieving my PhD and connecting to people and associations since have provided me with many opportunities to serve including as FIU's inaugural Director of Teaching for the Black Faculty Association. I am also proud to have organized numerous professional development events related to public service and leadership and to have been recognized for exceptional teaching, mentorship, and service. My online classes have received Quality Matters certification, a nationally recognized benchmark for high-quality distance education.
Where does your passion to serve come from?
As a middle child of divorced parents, I felt compelled to be a problem solver and peacekeeper. I derive personal satisfaction from helping others and bringing them together.
How can GlobalMindED help you reach your goals?
I appreciate the recognition and look forward to learning about other role models who aim to inspire the next generation of young leaders.
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