Shane Vega

Through military service and music, Shane Vega discovered his passions for leadership, creativity, and giving back.

He enlisted in the Florida National Guard at the age of 17 and joined FIU ROTC in 2016. Shane rose through the ranks, earning greater responsibilities. He led the 2017 Mission Command Leadership Exercise, where he successfully took 120 cadets through a complicated and ultimately successful exercise. He also organized the Ruck To Honor Veterans Day event at FIU, working with FIU Police and Miami-Dade firefighters to celebrate military service and honor the fallen. Shane’s character and accomplishments led to his selection as ROTC’s Battalion Commander, leading 200 cadets from several area colleges and universities.

For the past 10 years, music has been Shane’s source of strength, no matter what the circumstances. He performed with the Studio Jazz Big Band on 88.9 FM WDNA on the FIU Spotlight hour and the Jazz at Jackson event at Jackson Memorial Hospital, and premiered pieces composed by FIU graduates with the FIU Wind Ensemble. He has also worked professionally with the Miami Symphony Orchestra, in Miami FC’s Street Band and the Miami Heat’s 305 Street Band. He is active in Student Veterans of America and Kappa Kappa Psi.

After graduation, Shane will continue his service as a Second Lieutenant Quartermaster Officer in the Florida National Guard. He plans to pursue a graduate degree and combine his military logistics experience with a career in civilian logistics and corporate management.

By Ellen Forman
Associate Director, Marketing and Communications, College of Business