Justice Sotomayor met with students and local leaders to discuss the importance of leadership and civic engagement in transforming communities.
Miami, Feb. 14, 2025 – Miami Dade College (MDC) hosted U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor, in collaboration with the Knight Foundation, iCivics, and Miami-Dade County Public Schools, for two inspiring fireside chats on civic engagement and the important role young people play in shaping the future of their communities.
On Feb. 11, Knight Foundation President and CEO Maribel Pérez Wadsworth moderated a candid, thought-provoking conversation and lively Q&A session with Justice Sotomayor at MDC’s Padrón Campus about the power of civic engagement, the role of judicial institutions in our democracy, and her personal journey to the Court. MDC hosted civic and community leaders as well as law students from various universities in our community to participate in this event.
On Feb. 12, Justice Sotomayor joined nearly 500 Miami-Dade Public School students and Miami-Dade College students at MDC’s Wolfson Campus for an inspiring discussion about her life and the importance of being an active participant in civic society. Students asked Justice Sotomayor questions about mentorship, her experiences as the first Latina to sit on the nation’s highest court and what advice she would offer to young people. She highlighted the importance of community engagement from an early age. “You have the power to change the world. Democracy is community, learn how to be good citizens with a small ‘c,’” said Justice Sotomayor.
As Democracy’s College, MDC proudly serves as a convener of great leaders and sets the stage for thoughtful discussions that enhance students’ academic experience.
“We are honored to welcome Justice Sotomayor alongside leaders from the Knight Foundation, iCivics, and Miami-Dade County Public Schools, organizations that share our mission of advancing civic education and inspiring engaged citizens who will drive change,” said Miami Dade College President Madeline Pumariega. “Democracy thrives when we come together to exchange ideas, learn from one another, and take action. At Miami Dade College, we are proud to convene these important conversations that empower the leaders of tomorrow to make a lasting impact in our communities and beyond.”
Prior to the events, students and educators had the opportunity to ask questions and engage with Justice Sotomayor, who in 2009 became the first Latina, and third woman, to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court. Justice Sotomayor first visited MDC in 2018 as a featured author during the College’s Miami Book Fair.