Leticia Diaz

Dean, Barry University School of Law, Orlando

As Dean of Barry University’s Dwayne O. Andreas School of Law, Diaz leads more than 130 faculty, administrators and staffers. During her tenure, she’s been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion. She is the first Cuban-American woman to serve as a dean at a U.S. law school and has launched several initiatives to increase student participation and ensure equal opportunities for all.

EDUCATION: Bloomfield College (BS), Rutgers University (MS, Ph.D., JD)

MENTOR: My father, who immigrated from Cuba, embodies the American Dream. Forced to abandon his law studies when fleeing Cuba, his resilience and determination profoundly shaped my work ethic.

READING: Harvard Business Review; Psychology Today

WHAT I’VE LEARNED: Balancing a demanding career while being a wife and mother has sharpened my ability to prioritize and focus under pressure. Watching both my children become lawyers has reinforced this lesson.

MOTIVATIONAL MANTRA: Lead by example, advocate with passion and thrive on justice.