Mia Gonzales

Chief of Strategic Operations
Special Assistant to the Director

Mia Gonzales is a proud Tucson native and lifelong Wildcat. She brings over 25 years of experience in management, grounded in finance, operations, and strategic leadership. Her career spans executive-level environments, where she has supported senior leadership, held leadership roles herself, and driven success through collaboration and innovation.

In addition to her work in large institutions, Mia has consulted for local small businesses, offering guidance on operational efficiency, team building, and long-term sustainability.

Her professional journey began at the University of Arizona in beautiful Old Main, where she gained early insight into complex institutional operations. She later served as Business Administrator for a regional public policy organization, managing finances, operations, and Board support, while leading membership engagement. In that role, she built trusted relationships with business and civic leaders - connections that continue to shape her collaborative approach.

Mia eventually returned to the University of Arizona through the College of Medicine and now serves at the Sarver Heart Center, where she oversees strategic operations and research recruitment, and leads initiatives to enhance administrative efficiency. As the primary point of contact for Dr. Hesham Sadek, she ensures alignment with strategic priorities and fosters communication across the organization.

Rooted in the Wildcat community and inspired by Tucson’s spirit, Mia brings heart, strategy, and energy to every facet of her work.

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