Bio
Mario was born in Puerto Rico and grew up in the island's central region in Cidra. After graduating high school, he moved to the United States and became a postal worker in the U.S. Postal Service in Stratford, Connecticut. Mario served in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas. He has been interested in art since he was young and developed a passion for photography. His father was an electronic technician and an amateur photographer, and his mother was a teacher and nurse. Two inherited talents passed on by his parents.
Mario completed his associate degree at Central Texas College in Killeen, Texas, while serving in the military. He then received a bachelor's and master's degree in art education from Southern Connecticut State University in New Haven, Connecticut. His passion for travel and learning led him to study abroad in Italy to learn more about master painters and the art world. Mario became a teacher and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with students of all ages. He obtained a Specialist in Education degree from Barry University in Miami, Florida, and a doctoral degree from Nova Southeastern University in Davie, Florida. Mario has taught art in public schools and college-level students for over two decades. Among the many things he enjoys, he has a passion for nature, travel, and photography.
Mario values the importance of libraries and supports literacy programs and extracurricular activities that assist with student development in all stages while in school. He has worked with Military Veterans from all branches of the U.S. armed forces transitioning from military to college life as they obtain their higher education degrees and continue into the workforce. In addition, Mario believes the arts and humanities are vital in helping everyone learn and appreciate our world's quilt of diverse cultures and divergent global perspectives. Most importantly, he believes that books provide a unique lens into the world and enhance the quality of our lives.
Honors and Awards
Mario has received many honors and awards, including:
Nominated - Unsung Hero Award, 2024
Advising Customer Service Award, 2021, 2022, & 2024
Nominated - Adjunct Professor of the Year, 2022
Dissertation of Distinction Award, 2017
Teacher of the Year Award, 2015
Contributions to the Community, Miami-Dade County, 2014
U.S. Congressional Recognition, 2012
Ambassador Jean Wilkowski International Fellowship, 2006
Most Dependable Teacher, 2005
Rookie Teacher of the Year, 2003
Army Achievement Medal, 1999
“Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.”
Image Credit: Main Reading Room, Library of Congress, Washington, D.C. - Photo taken by Mario L. Vazquez