Modesto A. 'Mitch' Maidique sees bright spots among budget gloom with structure in place to build on quality of academic programs
When Modesto A. "Mitch" Maidique took the reins at Florida International University 22 years ago, the university boasted an enrollment of about 16,000 students. That number has more than doubled during his tenure.
Under Dr. Maidique's leadership, the university has introduced 22 new doctoral programs, grown its research expenditures from $6 million to about $110 million, and opened colleges of architecture and law. A new medical school is to admit its first class in fall 2009.
Entering his third decade as president, Dr. Maidique faces critical challenges: state budget cuts have meant dropping programs, limiting enrollment and raising tuition. But he remains optimistic, lauding the new medical school and a soon-to-open football stadium as milestones in the school's history. "I think FIU has a very bright future, no matter what curve they throw at us," he says.
He was interviewed in his University Park campus offices by Miami Today staff writer Risa Polansky.
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