Cynthia M. Ruiz has been a professor at the University of West Los Angeles (UWLA) School of Business for seven years, teaching leadership at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. Her cultural roots have shaped her outlook on the importance of education and giving back to the community.

“I come from blended cultures,” explained Cynthia. “I am Latina and Native American. On my dad’s side, my grandparents came from Mexico 100 years ago. On my mom’s side, I am Cherokee from Oklahoma. I was the first person in our family to go to college, where I obtained my Master’s degree by age 23. Education changed my life and opened doors to a variety of experiences. I have had to overcome many obstacles and challenges. I viewed each challenge as a lesson. And each lesson has made me stronger.”

For Cynthia, her most important goal is to be a person with integrity who makes a positive difference in this world. “As a Native American leader, I have been taught to consider seven generations in the future, and I do that by sharing my wisdom with others,” added Cynthia.

A Deep Business Background Made Her Ideally Suited for UWLA

Cynthia explained that UWLA President Brown recruited her to teach at the University because he was looking for people who had practical experience, not just academic knowledge. She has led organizations with thousands of employees and oversaw billions of dollars. In addition to teaching at UWLA, Cynthia runs her own company, Cynthia M. Ruiz & Associates, where she coaches C-Suite executives to become better leaders. “Ninety percent of my clients are women,” stated Cynthia. “That was not intentional, but it turned out to be a lucrative niche since so many women are taking leadership roles.”

Her unique blend of executive-level experience and entrepreneurship enables Cynthia to provide students with real examples of how the theory can be applied. She believes that UWLA’s emphasis on education that is applicable in the real world is invaluable. She also thinks the diverse nature of the student body is a tremendous plus for the educational experience.

“UWLA has a diverse student population, and most of the students in the School of Business that I teach are returning to the classroom after being out of school for a long time,” said Cynthia. “Of course, it is my job to make sure they get the required knowledge, but the most meaningful thing I can do is to inspire them to believe in themselves and give them the confidence to complete in a competitive job market.”

Making a Difference

Cynthia gives back to the community whenever she can. “As a professor, I have also participated in UWLA’s Women Leadership seminars,” stated Cynthia. “During the pandemic, I used my academic skills to teach a non-accredited short course called ‘Becoming the CEO of your Life.’ This course was free to the community as my way of giving back.” She readily admits she loves helping people.

Another example of how she helps is in the classroom. She recalls one class requiring students to submit a written term paper and give an oral presentation. The morning of the oral presentations, one particular student informed her he could not do the presentation. “I asked why. He said he had stayed up all night and did not finish the PowerPoint presentation,” explained Cynthia. “I came to find out he didn’t know how to use PowerPoint. So, I encouraged him to move forward with the oral presentation and speak from the heart. He ended up giving a very personal and moving talk. Later, I scheduled time with him to teach him how to use PowerPoint. I have always believed you need to meet students where they are and not judge them.”

Cynthia is grateful for the chance to shape student’s minds and help them excel. “When people ask me how I am doing, I reply, I am blessed and grateful,” concluded Cynthia. “I am grateful to be affiliated with a university that truly believes in its students. UWLA is a great educational environment where everyone is treated like family. Like I tell prospective students, education is an investment in yourself and your future. It is not always easy, but it’s worth it. I’m proud to be a part of this excellent institution.”