Maryam Laguna Borrego is Vice President for External Affairs and Chief of Staff to the President.

In this role, Maryam—whose passion for education as the great equalizer has driven her decade-long career as a strategist, leader, and consensus builder—serves as a senior leader and member of the President’s Cabinet at Miami Dade College.  She plays a critical role in the Office of the President and with key stakeholders both internally and externally, including the College’s Board of Trustees and local, state, and federal stakeholders. Specifically, she provides leadership and operational oversight for Government Affairs, Cultural Affairs, The Idea Center, and leads the strategy for the College’s major gifts. She is currently leading two of the college's most important cultural projects: the renovation and reopening of the Freedom Tower in 2025 and the Historic Dyer Courthouse which will be a hub for art, culture and innovation.

As the strategic leader for the College, Cultural Affairs, Government Affairs and the Idea Center, she and her team are stewarding some of the most innovative programs. The Miami Film Festival just celebrated its 40th anniversary and the Book Fair will turn 40 this November.

Prior to her role at MDC, Maryam served in the Office of the President at the University of Miami, as assistant vice president for public affairs. She has significant experience in higher education leadership, strategic planning and budgeting, advocacy and outreach, as well as the implementation of data-driven decisions on complex issues ranging from economic development to racial justice.

Maryam earned a Doctorate in Higher Education Leadership from the University of Miami; holds a Master of Arts in Public Policy from the University of Florida, as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science.

In addition to her experience in higher education, Maryam developed her skills and relationships in key roles with Take Stock in Children, The Miami Foundation, as well as City Year Miami. Her community involvement includes being a member of the International Women’s Forum and an an appointed member of the Downtown Development Authority. She is also a civic leader within the United Way of Miami Dade, Leadership Florida, and maintains active alumni involvement with the University of Florida, where she was inducted the Alumni Hall of Fame, Hispanic Hall of Fame and Florida Blue Key.