LATIN TIMES MAGAZINE - 2019 Summer Edition | Page 32

in community
Latina Lideres Awards
Marucci Guzman
2019 Latina Mover N Shaker
by: Jolie Gonzalez-Padilla
I am the proud Executive Director of Latino
Leadership, Inc. We are a nonprofit, 501(c)3
organization serving the Central Florida area
for over 20 years. They say if you love what
you do, you will never work a day in your life.
LTM: What part of Florida do you live in – are you
from Florida? If not – what brought you to Florida?
Marucci Guzman: I currently live in Orlando, FL!
My parents brought me to Orlando at the age of 3,
looking for better medical and educational oppor-
tunities for my older sister.
I was born in Rio Piedras, Puerto Rico, and raised in Orlando.
My father was also born in Puerto Rico. My mother was born
in Mexico City, Mexico, to a Puerto Rican mother and a Lithua-
nian father. We jokingly call her the United Nations.
LTM: Tell me about what organizations you are a part of
Marucci Guzman: I am currently the Vice President of the Or-
ange County Library System. Talk about an awesome opportu-
nity to share with the community the awesome, life-changing
programs and services the library provides. We jokingly say “it’s
not your mother’s library”. Whether technology offerings or
cooking classes, OCLS provides fun and exciting opportunities
to grow as an individual.
LTM: Tell us about the biggest highlights of your career
Marucci Guzman: The biggest highlight of my career was be-
coming Executive Director. As they say, Marucci Guzman: I
used to work for food. I grew through the ranks to where I am
today. Seeing hopes and dreams develop into the successful pro-
grams they’re today, i.e. Santiago & Friends | Family Center for
Autism, makes all the sweat and tears worth it.
LTM: As a Latina leader in the community, business or other…
what has been your biggest challenge and how have you been
able to overcome it
Marucci Guzman: I would say self-doubt. It is a human flaw to
compare yourself to others. It can be frustrating to see how hard
you work daily and not receive the kudos or financial benefits
you think the mission warrants. But, at the end of the day, you
put your head down and keep grinding. If our families are well
and striving, we are doing what we need to do!
LTM: How important is being a Latina to you
Marucci Guzman: I often say that if I had the choice, I'd be born
Latina… again… and again… and again. I love being a Puerto
Rican woman. The history; The passion; The respect for those
who came before me is inspirational.
LTM: What is your favorite type of musica, and what is your fa-
vorite song?
Marucci Guzman: I love country music. I love salsa. I love Frank
Sinatra type music. My all-time favorite song is Marc Anthony’s
rendition of Preciosa.
LTM: IF you can go back to let’s say 18-21, what are some of the
pivotal decisions that you have made that you would do differ-
ently
Marucci Guzman: Nothing. Had a made a different decision, I
wouldn’t be where I am today. Every mistake. Every right deci-
sion has led to my current life. I am blessed with a great job, good
health, and an amazing family.
LTM: What do you think some of the best career choices are for
young Latinas
Marucci Guzman: Selfishly, I would urge more Latinas to be-
come Board Certified Behavior Analysts. We employ BCBAs at
Santiago & Friends. We are in desperate need of talented staff.
The need is greater than the supply. It's a field that pays great
with amazing job security.
LTM: Tell us about what kind of projects you currently have going
on
Marucci Guzman: Currently, I am working with Dr. Sherin in
developing and opening a free clinic for uninsured Latinos in
Central Florida. Building on his extensive medical background
and my community relationships, our vision for Clínica Mi Sa-
lud is a special place for health care.
LTM: What can we expect to see from you in the future
Marucci Guzman: Winning Ms. Universe. Just kidding! I would
like to continue seeing Latino Leadership grow and mature into
a pivotal piece of the Central Florida service provider network. It
is truly an honor to give back to my community daily.
LTM: What did I miss? Tell me something you want us to know!
Marucci Guzman: I need a vacation! Preferably without phone
or internet signal.
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