Dr. Mariela Roca is a mother, veteran, and dedicated civil servant. Raised by a strong and independent single mother, Mariela knows all too well how hard work, sacrifice, and dedication are key to living a meaningful and successful life.

Mariela was born in San Juan, Puerto Rico and at an early age moved to Queens, NY with her mother and older brother. She obtained a public school education, which continued when her family moved back to Puerto Rico at the age of 13. There, she finished middle and high school and attended the University of Puerto Rico for her first year of college.

Inspired by her older brother’s military service within the United States Marine Corps, she decided to herself enlist in the United States Air Force. During her time in the Air Force, Mariela served as a Medical Logistician providing lifesaving Medical Logistics support to military warfighters across all services both stateside, and while deployed overseas.

Mariela holds a Master of Business Administration from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Emmitsburg, MD and a Doctor of Business Administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus.