Student Spotlight – Toni Marie Soldano
Toni Soldano
Each month, faculty and staff are recognized for their enormous contribution to Union. In the words of President Sublett, “Only people make a difference in an organization and only people are important in our lives.”
Toni Soldano is Director of Enrollment, Florida Academic Center, is in the spotlight. Toni is also a student in the Master of Science in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) program. Learn more about Toni in the Q&A below.
Q. What do you plan to do with your degree?
A. This is a personal goal that I have had for a very long time, and something I would like to complete for my parents. I hope this degree will help me grow in my current job capacity, and will eventually lead me to promotion opportunities.
Q. What led you to this program?
A. I love the flexibility of the online format, and the accelerated pace of this program. Completing a master’s degree in one year is a great thing!
Q. Why did you choose Union for your studies?
A. I am an employee of the university, so I know the value of an education from Union. The faculty is exceptional and I know the curriculum will prepare me for my future goals. Union’s mission and values closely align with my own especially the theme of social responsibility!
Q. If you could give a piece of advice to your 20 something, what would it be?
A. Oh that’s easy. I would tell myself to stay in school and complete my degree! Taking a semester off at 22 turned into taking 17 years off. I know it’s never too late, but completing a bachelor’s degree at 40 and now a master’s at 51 is very different from having done it all in my twenties!
Q. Who has influenced you the most in your life, and how have they influenced you?
A. My parents have been awesome supports to me throughout my life, always encouraging me in whatever I decide to do, and instilling the value of education in me. I promised them I would follow through and I want to make them proud of me! Being a mom to three amazing children has made me want to set the example for them that you can achieve whatever you want in life if you work for it and make a commitment to yourself. And my wonderful husband, who makes me want to be a better person every day, supports me and wants to see me leave my mark in the world! I couldn’t do it without him!