Congratulations to our Student Government Student of the Month for August...Martin Maradiaga from Miami Dade College! Martin was nominated by his advisor, Jordan Chang! Here is what Jordan shared with us about Martin:

"Martin Maradiaga has launched the 2025–2026 academic year with remarkable energy and excellence. As S.G.A. President at Miami Dade College: Hialeah Campus, he welcomed faculty and staff at Campus Convocation, articulating a clear vision for S.G.A. and encouraging collaboration to enhance student engagement. Under his leadership, S.G.A. hosted three successful Welcome Week events: S.G.A. Connects, a campus resource fair that also served as a meet & greet of the S.G.A. executive board, a Lilo & Stitch movie night for students who are taking evening classes and looking for community, and lastly, a ping pong tournament to close out the week. As the Student Life Director, I can attest to these events encouraging students to get out of their comfort zone and find their "home away from home" at Miami Dade College: Hialeah Campus. Martin has actively collaborated with campus stakeholders to foster a welcoming and dynamic environment for new students. He organized a 9/11 commemorative event to honor the lives lost on September 11th, demonstrating his commitment to civic engagement and remembrance. As part of MDC’s Changemaker Week, Martin worked with our Institute for Civic Engagement & Democracy (iCED) to initiate and coordinate two major civic forums: the Hialeah Mayoral Candidates Forum and the Hialeah City Council Candidates Forum, connecting students with local government and promoting informed participation. His excellence extends beyond programming. Along with other S.G.A. leaders, Martin presented to the Miami Dade College Board of Trustees, highlighting S.G.A’s initiatives and advocating for student needs. Academically, he maintains a perfect 4.0 semester GPA since Summer 2024 and holds a 3.760 cumulative GPA, exemplifying his dedication to both leadership and scholarship.

Martin Maradiaga exemplifies student leadership through his proactive engagement, strategic vision, and collaborative spirit. As S.G.A. President, he has inspired his team to lead with purpose, organizing impactful events that foster community and school pride. His Welcome Week programming energized the campus and created meaningful connections among students. Martin’s leadership extends to civic engagement, where he took initiative to organize candidate forums during Changemaker Week, positioning MDC students as informed participants in local democracy. His ability to coordinate with city officials and campus administration reflects his maturity and influence. He also serves as a bridge between students and college leadership, representing student voices during his presentation to the Board of Trustees. Martin’s leadership is grounded in service, vision, and academic excellence—qualities that make him a role model at the Hialeah Campus and across Miami Dade College."

Congratulations, Martin! Thank you to Mr. Chang for nominating him!