Last Friday, Florida International University launched its new “Panther Portrait” series. Ana Cristina Cash was its first honoree. The debut included an intimate ceremony at FIU’s Modesto A. Maidique Campus inside the Graham Center.
Born and raised in Miami, Cash began her decade-long music career at 6-years-old, earning early recognition with a standout performance on Univision’s “Sabado Gigante.” At 19, she became the first Hispanic artist to perform the national anthem at a presidential inauguration, singing for former President George W. Bush.
FIU leaders attended the ceremony to underscore the importance of recognizing FIU alums.
“It’s a testament to the hard work of the faculty and everything that prepared a graduate from the university,” said Brian Schriner, dean of the College of Communication, Architecture and the Arts. “So events like these are really celebratory, but they’re also inspirational.”
Her husband, John Carter Cash, the only son of legendary American singer-songwriter Jonny Cash, expressed how proud he was of his wife.
“I’m blessed to be a part of this celebration,” said John Cash. “Her photograph is going to go up here and be here for generations to come. It’s a wonderful thing.”
During the ceremony, Ana Cash reflected on the emotional weight of being recognized by her alma mater. She expressed gratitude for the recognition, acknowledging her mix of pride and humility as her portrait takes a permanent place on campus.
“Definitely, there’s a lot of imposter syndrome, but at the same time, it’s an honor,” said Ana Cash. “I am grateful and full of gratitude…Thank you, FIU, thank you, everyone, who was involved in this, and you know, it really is an honor, for sure.”
The FIU Alumni Association hopes to continue this series to recognize alums’s accomplishments.
