![Michael R. Mendez](../../_assets/images/recipients/2017/michael_mendez.jpg)
Michael R. Mendez
College: Steven J. Green School of International and Public Affairs
Degree: BA '03, MBA '10
Michael Mendez is the Owner of Mendez Fuel, which operates several gas stations throughout Miami. Mendez Fuel’s flagship Coral Way location is anything but typical, offering fresh specialty sandwiches, acai bowls, and its own proprietary cold-press juice brand, FuelJuice Miami. In addition, it is one of Miami’s best craft beer destinations. Previously, Mr. Mendez worked at JDM Partners, a wealth-management firm, and implemented its marketing plan.
For 10 years, Mr. Mendez sat on the FIU Foundation’s Board of Directors. Currently, he serves as a Cabinet Member for the Dean’s Advisory Board for both the FIU College of Law and the College of Arts & Sciences. He is President of the Costa Foundation, which supports human rights organizations. The Foundation has funded an immigration legal clinic at FIU, as well as college scholarships.
Mendez graduated from FIU with both a B.A. in history and an M.B.A.