Maria Elena Ferrer a 2015 Hispanic Woman of Distinction

The struggles of a Cuban immigrant family did not stop Maria Elena from dreaming about her future. As a young child, she desired financial independence, travel and a determination to embrace hard work and ingenuity.  After attending Miami-Dade College with a focus on banking and finance, Maria Elena began her career in the banking business in south Florida and today is the Senior Vice President at IberiaBank where she manages private banking relationships and specialty lending programs.

 Throughout her career, she has volunteered for agencies that provide support to the Hispanic community.  Using her life experiences and her ability to communicate in both languages, Maria Elena chaired the Board of Directors at Hispanic Unity of Florida, an organization that helps newly arriving immigrants obtain jobs, learn the English language and receive the support available for their families.   During her seven years leading this Board, she was instrumental in expanding and enhancing the mission of Hispanic Unity.

Even with her job responsibilities, Maria Elena finds time to be active on the Boys and Girls Club where she believes that this non-profit group will help reshape the future of the community, many of which come from the various ethnic groups in south Florida.

Believing that community service is a responsibility to make the world a little better, Maria Elena continues to support the Make-A-Wish Foundation, United Way, Symphony of the Americas and numerous events where she can make an impact on the lives of men, women and children.

“Bilingual/bicultural Hispanic women are leaving their own mark on every facet of the workforce. We embrace our femininity and bring our passion and drive for excellence in all we do” said Maria Elena. “ I have, and always will, remember where I came from and continue to advocate for the Hispanic community.”

Maria Elena will be celebrated as Hispanic Woman of Distinction on August 14, 2015.

Meet the other 2015 Hispanic Women of Distinction:

Silvia Cobo

Claudia Bartra

Marielena Villamil

Yvette Aleman

Daisy Baez

Kattia A. Castellanos