Our community has demonstrated support for FIU’s expansion onto the land adjacent to the Modesto A. Maidique Campus by voting “Yes” on a November 2014 referendum.

Now, more than a year later, it is imperative that we move forward with the plan to find the Fair a new home.

I am an example of the impact FIU has on South Florida. As a Miami native, FIU has allowed me to stay close to home while providing me with countless leadership opportunities. FIU has given me invaluable tools to pursue a successful career and I will graduate with no debt. Other members of my family also have made the most of their FIU educations – my mother and brother are all FIU alumni.

FIU gives similar opportunities to thousands every year – we have 55,000 students and 200,000 alumni. These are our community’s leaders, engineers, doctors and entrepreneurs. FIU educates our community’s top teachers, employs thousands, and is helping to transform Miami into a cultural hub.

FIU’s success is our community’s success. FIU’s expansion would mean more and better jobs and educational opportunities.

Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez, as president of the FIU Student Government Association, I am asking you and members of the County Commission to please take action on the South Dade site. Some 30 sites have been studied and the only one that really works is South Dade. Relocating the Fair to South Dade is good for FIU and is good for the South Dade community.

Please listen to the voters and let FIU expand.