Elected to be the City Attorney for the City for Miami in 2015, Victoria Méndez is a triple ’Cane, earning three degrees from the the University of Miami, each one preparing her for a career in public service.
“As the City Attorney for the City of Miami, I am able to serve this great City, its elected officials, and its more than 450,000 residents on a daily basis,” Méndez shares. “There is nothing more humbling and inspiring than that! I am able to draft legislation that improves the quality of life of our residents, litigate cases of great importance to our citizens and take on environmental issues of great significance.”
How has your education from the University of Miami helped you to grow in your career?
As a triple ’Cane, I can honestly say that my degrees from UM have been instrumental in helping me achieve my dream job as City Attorney. My Master's Degree in Public Administration coupled, with my Law Degree made me the best candidate when I was seeking my current position.
Can you share insight on challenges that you’ve faced along the way and how you overcame them to achieve such success?
Working in and around local government is always exciting, yet difficult at times. Political issues can always cause many challenges along the way. However, when you follow the law, no matter how difficult the issues may be, you will always achieve success.
How important is it for women to aspire to be leaders; in their field and in their community?
It is very important for women to aspire to leadership roles. Often I am the only woman in a room full of men. We need to help women grow into leadership roles and have a seat at the table. I mentor as many young lawyers as I can, especially women. I have helped mentor through our Florida Bar Leadership Academy, our Cuban American Bar Association Mentoring Program, participating in our law school programming, and starting my own office's Internship program. I have helped sharpen my own leadership skills further through Leadership Florida. We have come a long way, but there is always room for more women in leadership.
