Ruth Rios

Ruth Rios, who spent eight years in foster care, has beaten the odds. Less than 3 percent of former foster care youth earn a college degree. Determined to be part of the “good number,” Ruth worked hard for her bachelor’s degree at FIU and now has earned her MBA as part of the Professional MBA Downtown program.

At age 10, Ruth was separated from her loving parents. The reason, Ruth explained, was that a relative provided misinformation. Ruth was in foster care until age 18, in 14 different foster homes, while her parents struggled to get her back. Ruth said “no” to any chance of adoption so she could remain her parents’ child. She is now reunited with her family.

Ruth came to FIU while still in foster care. She was an early supporter of Fostering Panther Pride, a campus program that provides former foster care and homeless students with assistance during their college years.

A hard worker, Ruth received scholarships from The Zyman Foundation as well as the National Society of Hispanic MBAs and Lincoln Motors. Ruth also was involved with CHARLEE of Dade County, a nonprofit agency that provided resources and support to help abused, abandoned and neglected children and at-risk families. Ruth gave speeches, encouraging people to help children in foster care, and also worked as an account manager.

Ruth is currently Senior Manager of Donor Relations at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and plans on earning a second master’s degree in public administration.