Estrellas and Excellence: The Randy Gómez Story

Randy Gómez, born in San Pedro de Macoris in the Dominican Republic, received a Power Women of Long Island Award on November 13, 2024. An integral part of the Berkeley College community for nearly 20 years, Gómez’s career at Berkeley College began as an Admissions Associate, and she has climbed the College ladder to become the New York Director of Corporate and Community Relations for Corporate Learning Partnerships.

“Randy Gómez embodies the essence of a ‘Power Woman’ through her unwavering dedication, creativity, and transformative impact on the community,” shared Linda Mauro, Chief Operating Officer, New York campus. “She has consistently led initiatives that deliver meaningful results, inspiring countless individuals to pursue excellence. Her remarkable efforts to empower women, specifically fellow Latinas, and her drive for innovation stand as a testament to Randy. Balancing her professional achievements with a steadfast commitment to mentoring and fostering growth, Randy showcases a multifaceted brilliance that sets her apart. Her tireless persistence and unwavering efforts make her a truly deserving recipient of the Power Woman award.”

Mauro, part of Gómez’s “Berkeley family,” along with Gómez’s immediate family, beamed as Gómez made her way up to the red carpet to begin her walk to receive her Power Women award. Gómez shone her beautiful smile back to them, silently thanking them for their continued and unwavering support. She gave them an almost imperceptible wink, took a deep breath, and put one foot in front of the other, just as she has done her entire life.

Culture, Character, and College to Career

Gómez immigrated to America with her family when she was just four years old, learning early on the importance of her identity. While she learned English in school, she spoke her native Spanish at home and remained immersed in her Dominican culture, surrounding herself with the food and music of her home country. Though she felt pressured to conform to American standards and culture, she remained true to herself, a tenet she has taken through life and into the workplace.

“Representation matters,” Gómez stated, “and I want [young professionals and working mothers] to know they can excel in leadership while staying true to their identities.” Gómez staunchly supports all students, especially connecting with those who believe in themselves.

Full of confidence, Gómez began her own hair styling business as a teenager, which was extremely profitable, before setting her sights on attending college. Though she had many opportunities, Gómez decided to attend Berkeley College, attributing much of her decision to her admissions counselor, who, in Gómez’s words, “Kept it real,” and pulled no punches. After completing a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Gómez went on to work in Admissions at Berkeley College for the next 15 years while raising two children, volunteering in her community, and fighting to make education accessible for students.

During her tenure at Berkeley College, Gómez has built strong “relationships with colleagues, students, and partners who share a vision for innovation and impact, which continually energize [her] and bring fresh perspectives” to her work. Gómez’s work as Director of Corporate and Community Relations is, in her own words, “about empowering others to thrive. Every partnership, project, or initiative is a step toward creating transformative opportunities.” Her role, which seems to parallel her life’s journey, combines strategy, relationship-building, and advocacy for higher education.

A Leader in Three Industries

Gómez is an industry leader in her own right, having founded Sparx Labs, a nonprofit aimed at helping people learn how to manage blockchain and promote technological advances for women and non-binary people across the globe. In addition to being the CEO of Sparx Labs, Gómez is also the President of the Prospanica New Jersey Chapter. These different roles allow Gómez to understand better “industry trends and the challenges diverse people face.” Furthermore, these roles help her to identify partners for Berkeley College that are relevant, equitable, and forward-thinking.

Armed with so many tasks, identities, and jobs, Gómez shared a few keys to her successes: “It takes a village. Balancing multiple roles requires intentional time management, a supportive network – both at home and at work, and a clear vision of my priorities.” Gómez credits not only her mentors but her students for inspiring her; at a time when she was feeling spread too thin, a student happened to reach out to Gómez and thank her for an enlightening workshop that transformed the student’s career outlook and career trajectory. “It was a poignant reminder of why I do this work,” noted Gómez.

Staying True to Her Roots and Herself

Gómez flashed back to the present as a camera flashed in her eyes. As she smiled again, gliding down the red carpet to receive her Power Women of Long Island award, one foot in front of the other, Gómez took one last second to reflect on all the steps it took for her to get to this moment.

She thought of how she became a young mother and partner, how she learned to embrace the support around her, and how she invested plentifully in her family and in herself. As her children and successes grew, Gómez remembered to stay grounded and give back to her community through her businesses and volunteer work. She has continued to encourage her students and peers to stay true to their identities.

Gómez advocates for accessible education and knows that this award is not just about her own endeavors; it is, in her own words, “a testament to the power of the hard work, resilience and the incredible mentors who have guided me.” This award is more than a tangible trophy. This award speaks to years of diligence and dedication, execution and action, balance and belaboring. Gómez does not seek the spotlight. “Doers do,” she said. “We don’t often seek recognition; we are too focused on executing and making an impact.”

Gómez took the final step to the end of the red carpet, shook several hands, and gracefully accepted the award. She smiled for the cameras, glamorous as ever, proudly representing her immediate family and her work family, before stepping to the side, making space for the next woman to receive her award. Because that’s what Gómez does: she illuminates the way for other women to carve out their paths and successes, empowering and lifting them up along the way. The evening might have been coming to a close, but Gómez’s career, despite going 20 years strong, is still scratching the surface of her unlimited potential. 

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The views and/or opinions in this article are those of the individuals interviewed. The academic achievements and/or employment outcomes described in this article are specific to each individual and are not a guarantee of similar results for past or current students. For up-to-date and detailed information, please visit BerkeleyCollege.edu and view our catalogs at BerkeleyCollege.edu/publications.