Gloria M. Garcia, 47, is an attorney in Miami Lakes who practices workers compensation law. She lives in town with her husband and three children. Garcia is also a volunteer with the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network, where she says she advocates for laws that benefit cancer patients.
Q: Where are you from and what is your background?
A: I was born in Cuba and moved to the United States when I was five. My parents moved to Miami Lakes in 1988 and I’ve been here ever since. I attended law school at St. Thomas University and graduated in 1998.
Q: What do you like most about Miami Lakes?
A: The family atmosphere. I’ve had my kids attend the best schools in town and they also have so many activities that are family-friendly.
Q: What do you dislike about the town?
A: No town is perfect, but I think we can have more fine dining options or event spaces that would attract more business meetings.
Q: What are the demands/responsibilities of your current position and what do you hope to accomplish?
A: I now have my own practice in Miami Lakes and the biggest challenge is juggling that family life versus business life, but I’ve found a way to balance both.
Q: What is your biggest accomplishment, personal or career?
A: My biggest accomplishment in my personal life is having my family. I love the young generation and everything they are doing. In my career, I’ve been fortunate to have been named [one of the] Women of Distinction in Miami Lakes for two years. I was one of the founding members of the Miami Lakes Bar. Also recently as a volunteer, I was named the first Hispanic Lead Ambassador for the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Action Network. I began volunteering after my sister Maria Garcia passed away from breast cancer in 2009.
Q: What is your fantasy career?
A: I would probably be an author. I think there’s so much knowledge to share, I would love to share others’ stories.
Q: What books are you reading, are there any podcasts that you’re listening to?
A: I’m reading “Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In” by Roger Fisher and William Ury.
Q: What have you binge-watched on TV?
A: I was recently hooked on “Click Bait” on Netflix.
Q: Where did you last travel to on a vacation?
A: Naples, Florida with the family. It’s our yearly tradition. It’s a wonderful time to spend with my entire family.