Cristina Moguel

Cristina Moguel was working as a bartender, to help pay for her undergraduate college expenses, when she realized she belonged in a career where all her efforts could go into creating the perfect guest experience.

Cristina had to take the bartending job because her family bakery – El Brazo Fuerte – was struggling. After having her epiphany from behind the bar, she spearheaded the opening of the S Sports Bar & Grill. That opened the doors to opportunities for other grand openings, including The Lucky Clover, Mare Nostrum, and Hoops Sports Bar & Grill.

Cristina enrolled in the master’s program at the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management and put her education into practice by managing the family business. While working on her master’s degree, Cristina had her oldest son, Logan, who was diagnosed with autism.

Dedicating more than 20 hours a week toward special care for Logan made it difficult for Cristina to focus on her studies. In addition to her motivation and persistence, Cristina credits her success to support from friends, family and FIU professors like Joel Feigenheimer.

After graduation, Cristina plans to work on expanding El Brazo Fuerte by shifting its business model from a commissary bakery to a chain of storefront bakeries throughout all of South Florida. Cristina also plans to earn a Ph.D. in business and one day become a professor at the Chaplin School.

Cristina also hopes her achievements inspire Logan by showing him you can accomplish your dreams, no matter the obstacles in your way.

By Gabriela Aguirrechu
Media Relations Representative
Office of Media Relations