Madeline Pumariega

Madeline Pumariega is a trailblazer in higher education, serving as the first female president appointed to lead Miami Dade College (MDC), the nation's largest educational institution. Under her leadership, Miami Dade College made history, ranking No. 4 among Top Public Schools in the South Region and No. 18 among all colleges in the South by U.S. News & World Report. In addition, the College ranked No. 6 in Best Colleges for Veterans, No. 10 in Social Mobility, and No. 12 in Best Value in the South Region.

Before assuming the presidency at MDC, Pumariega became the first female and Hispanic chancellor of the Florida College System (FCS). In 2019, Pumariega held the position of executive vice president and provost at Tallahassee Community College.

A visionary leader with a passion for education and workforce development, under President Pumariega’s presidency at Miami Dade College, she has secured more than $100 million in funding. Dedicated to shaping higher education to meet the evolving needs of industries, Pumariega prioritizes collaboration with business partners to align educational programs with workforce demands, ensuring talent is prepared for the future of work.

In addition to her role at MDC, Madeline Pumariega continues to make a profound impact on education at local, state and national levels, serving on the Board of American Council on Education and serving as Chair on the Board of the Florida Prepaid Foundation. In addition, Pumariega is Chair Elect of the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce and is a Member of the Council on Foreign Relations and the Orange Bowl Committee. Recognized for her transformative leadership, she was recently named on the Forbes 50 Over 50 Innovation list for her commitment to shaping the future of education.

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