Meet Dr. Ariel Morel

We recently connected with Dr. Ariel Morel and have shared our conversation below.

Dr. Ariel, thank you so much for joining us today and appreciate you talking about a sensitive topic. It’s unfortunately relevant to so many in the community as layoffs have been on the rise recently, and so we’d appreciate hearing your story and how you overcame being let go?
Navigating the tumultuous waters of career setbacks—whether through being laid off, fired, or resigning—is a journey fraught with challenges, but within these challenges lie opportunities for profound growth and self-discovery. My own professional odyssey has been punctuated by these trials, each one serving as a crucible that forged my resilience and shaped my path forward.

Fired: The sting of being forced out of a job, especially when you’ve advocated for your worth, cuts deep. I found myself in this very predicament when I stood up for a deserved salary increase, only to be met with resistance from my immediate supervisor. Despite assurances, promises were broken, and I was left with an ultimatum: accept the status quo or walk away. I chose the latter, refusing to succumb to unjust treatment. This pivotal moment, though initially disheartening, became the catalyst for my entrepreneurial journey. By founding my own consulting practice, I seized control of my destiny, turning adversity into opportunity.

Laid Off: The abruptness of being laid off, despite exemplary performance, can shake one’s sense of self-worth to the core. In the aftermath of this setback, I embarked on a soul-searching quest to redefine my professional trajectory. Months turned into years of introspection, during which I reevaluated my aspirations and educational pursuits. This period of contemplation bore fruit in the form of renewed clarity and ambition. Armed with newfound resolve, I propelled my consulting practice to greater heights and embarked on a journey of academic enrichment, pursuing a doctoral degree to become an authoritative voice in my field.

Resigning: Drawing from the lessons of past misfortunes, I resolved never to compromise my values or settle for less than I deserve. By recognizing my worth and asserting my boundaries, I preempted the possibility of being shown the door once again. Through deliberate introspection and a deep understanding of my professional ethos, I made the proactive choice to resign from positions that failed to align with my vision. This decision, though daunting, empowered me to chart a course dictated by authenticity and purpose. As a result, my business flourished, my academic pursuits bore fruit, and I found myself at the helm of a career defined by passion and fulfillment.

In hindsight, each setback was not a harbinger of defeat, but a harbinger of transformation. Through adversity, I unearthed reservoirs of resilience, discovered untapped potential, and forged a path illuminated by purpose. These experiences have not only shaped my professional journey but also sculpted the very fabric of my character, imbuing me with the fortitude to weather any storm and emerge stronger on the other side.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
In my journey as an administrative and operational executive professional, I’ve navigated diverse landscapes, from spearheading transformations within esteemed organizations to founding and guiding my own consulting ventures. At the core of my approach lies a commitment to promoting success through effective management and strategic decision-making.

In my most recent role as the Deputy Managing Director at Project Evident, I had the privilege of connecting nonprofits with evidence-related technical assistance, fostering equitable outcomes for communities. Through adept administrative and operational leadership, I engineered the launch of a major organizational initiative within a remarkably short timeframe. By crafting robust administrative processes and nurturing a culture of accountability, I ensured the seamless execution of our mission. Notably, I achieved 100% job satisfaction among my team, a testament to my dedication to fostering growth and engagement.

Prior to this, my tenure as the Senior Director of Administration at the Seminole Tribe of Florida showcased my prowess in driving operational excellence across diverse departments and locations. Through strategic partnerships and streamlined processes, I bolstered organizational efficiency and facilitated business growth, resulting in significant cost savings and heightened service quality. My leadership in talent development and organizational realignment yielded tangible outcomes, including reduced attrition rates and enhanced staff performance.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I’ve remained deeply committed to community engagement and advocacy. Through board leadership roles and active involvement in various organizations, I’ve championed causes close to my heart, from LGBTQIA2S+ empowerment to youth advocacy and beyond. My contributions have been recognized through awards and accolades, underscoring my unwavering dedication to effecting positive change.

As I continue to chart my course in the realm of administrative and operational leadership, I’m driven by a passion for innovation and a relentless pursuit of excellence. With a robust educational background, including a Doctor of Education in Organizational Innovation and certifications in human resources management and diversity, equity, and inclusion, I’m equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate complex challenges and drive sustainable growth.
In the coming months and years, I’m excited to further expand my impact through new initiatives and partnerships, leveraging my expertise to empower organizations and communities alike. Whether through consulting engagements, board leadership, or advocacy efforts, I remain steadfast in my commitment to fostering positive change and driving success at every turn.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on my journey, three qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge stand out as pivotal to my success:

Strategic Decision-Making: Throughout my career, the ability to make sound, strategic decisions has been paramount. Whether navigating organizational complexities or spearheading transformative initiatives, strategic decision-making has allowed me to steer my teams and ventures toward success. To develop this skill, I recommend cultivating a deep understanding of your organization’s goals and values, honing your analytical abilities, and seeking diverse perspectives when evaluating options. Embrace opportunities to lead projects or initiatives that require strategic thinking, and don’t shy away from seeking mentorship or guidance from seasoned professionals.

Leadership and Talent Development: Effective leadership is not merely about overseeing operations but empowering others to reach their full potential. Investing in talent development, fostering a culture of accountability and growth, and leading by example are essential aspects of leadership that have been instrumental in my journey. To enhance your leadership skills, actively seek opportunities to mentor others, hone your communication and interpersonal skills, and lead by example with integrity and empathy. Embrace feedback as a tool for growth and continuously strive to cultivate a positive and inclusive work environment.

Business Development and Relationship Building: In today’s interconnected world, success often hinges on the ability to cultivate meaningful relationships and seize opportunities for growth. Business development, including networking, relationship building, and contract negotiations, has been instrumental in expanding my ventures and driving sustainable business growth. To excel in this area, prioritize building authentic connections, maintaining a strong professional network, and actively seeking opportunities to expand your sphere of influence. Cultivate strong communication skills, both verbal and written, and approach every interaction with curiosity, humility, and a willingness to learn.

For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace every opportunity as a chance to learn and grow. Be proactive in seeking out new experiences, whether through internships, volunteer work, or extracurricular activities, and approach challenges with resilience and a growth mindset. Take ownership of your development by setting clear goals and seeking out resources, mentors, and learning opportunities that align with your aspirations. Remember that success is not defined by the absence of setbacks but by your ability to adapt, learn, and persevere in the face of adversity. Above all, stay true to your values, remain open to feedback and guidance, and never underestimate the power of perseverance and determination in achieving your goals.

Before we go, maybe you can tell us a bit about your parents and what you feel was the most impactful thing they did for you?
The most impactful thing my parents did for me was instilling in me the value of hard work, perseverance, and education. As immigrants to the United States from the Dominican Republic, they faced numerous challenges and obstacles, but they never wavered in their determination to provide for our family and give us opportunities they themselves never had.

Growing up, my parents ran a grocery store, and from a young age, my siblings and I worked alongside them, learning the importance of diligence and responsibility. Despite the long hours and physical demands of running a business, they always emphasized the importance of education as the key to unlocking a brighter future.

Their unwavering belief in the power of education inspired me to strive for academic excellence, culminating in the achievement of my doctoral degree. Along the way, they encouraged and supported me, offering guidance and motivation during the inevitable challenges and setbacks.

Through their example, my parents taught me the invaluable lesson that success is not determined by circumstances but by one’s resilience, determination, and willingness to seize opportunities. Their sacrifices, hard work, and unwavering belief in the transformative power of education have shaped me into the person I am today, instilling in me a deep sense of gratitude, ambition, and purpose.

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National University

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