ABOUT

Bio

Mario L. Vazquez was born in Puerto Rico and raised in Cidra, located in the island’s central region. After completing high school, he relocated to the United States and worked as a postal worker in Stratford, Connecticut. He served in both the Puerto Rico and Connecticut Army National Guard, as well as in the U.S. Army at Fort Hood, Texas. Mario has pursued art since childhood and developed a keen interest in photography. His father was an electronics technician and amateur photographer, while his mother worked as both a teacher and a nurse. He attributes his talents to the influence of both parents. Mario’s passion for travel has taken him to several countries, including Canada, Mexico, Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, and the United Kingdom, where he found inspiration for his storytelling.

Honors & Awards  

Mario has received many honors and awards, including:

Adjunct Professor of the Year Award, 2025 Nominated Unsung Hero Award, 2024 Academic Advising Customer Service Award, 2021, 2022, 2024 & 2025 Dissertation of Distinction Award, 2017 Teacher of the Year Award, 2015 Contributions to the Community, Miami-Dade County, Office of the Mayor, 2013, 2014, & 2015 U.S. Congressional Recognition, Outstanding Public Service, 2012, 2013, 2014, & 2015 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 feeed him for a lifetime.” - Chinese proverb