Building Beyond the Bases

Caroline O’Connor: While it's unique in professional sports, I believe there will be more instances of this in the future. I brought skills from other industries to sports, and our ownership group is very supportive of putting talented individuals in each role. The transition was made easy thanks to our diverse front office and supportive ownership.

Caroline O’Connor: I see being a role model as crucial. I strive to excel in my role and show others that it's achievable. I engage with young women and encourage them to consider sports as a career. When I was in college, I didn't perceive it as an option because I never knew of the different career opportunities in sports. But now, I emphasize that it's very possible, and platforms like this magazine help spread that message.

Caroline O’Connor: One in particular that we organize is a Women's Empowerment Day, where women leaders share insights, and companies bring their female employees to learn from these leaders. This event cultivates community and provides a platform for discussing successful women. Collaborating with partners like Ana adds to this sense of community, which is a priority.

Ana VeigaMilton: For our family, the Marlins play a central, unifying role. We've been involved since the stadium's early days, bringing friends and colleagues to experience the Marlins at such a lively stadium. The Marlins have revitalized the community, contributing to various initiatives through the Miami Marlins Foundation, which include food distributions, school visits, cultural engagement, and much more. The Marlins are an asset to Miami and generate impact, and Caroline is a significant part of that impact.

Ana VeigaMilton: The collaboration is exceptional. UHealth's academic medicine, combined with Jackson's infrastructure and medical expertise, forms a powerful synergy. I feel very fortunate to work alongside Caroline on the Jackson Health Foundation Board. Being involved in the Board allows us to contribute even more to this transformative partnership, strengthening healthcare, research, and the family-centered patient experience. We help elevate Miami!

Caroline O’Connor: The Marlins actively reflect Miami's energy, history, and culture. We aim for our staff to mirror the city's diversity. Our heritage-themed events are meant to be a unifying force, representing the different heritages of our community. The Marlins contribute to Miami's vibrant identity.  You can come on any given night - but especially on those celebrations - and feel a sense of pride and belonging to the various cultures being represented.

Caroline O’Connor:  Everywhere you look in the stadium, there’s a local presence, from hospitals, banks, and other businesses right down to the sounds and flavors at the ballpark. We’re all about every part of Miami.

Caroline O’Connor: We're committed to hosting a wide array of events beyond the games, making the ballpark a community gathering place. From college graduations to galas, we want to leverage this venue to unite the community. There is a special feeling when you enter loanDepot park.

Ana VeigaMilton: I believe in philanthropy's ability to connect people. It's a powerful way to create lasting change while forming meaningful relationships. My advice is to identify causes that resonate with you and then collaborate with others who share your passion. Through collective effort, we can truly make a difference.

Caroline O’Connor: We aim to continue growing the event lineup beyond baseball games. Our goal is to be an active hub for a range of events, conferences, and gatherings. We're exploring collaborations to integrate the Marlins into the community fabric further. The Marlins' presence should be felt beyond the field. From concerts, festivals, and monster trucks to corporate meetings, conventions, and community walks, loanDepot park is a place to come together.

Ana VeigaMilton: Yes, we are very excited! My father-in-law, Mr. José Milton, loved living in South Florida and was a big baseball fan. We spent many afternoons with family and friends watching spring training games. When the Marlins came to town, he was among the first to get season tickets and a VIP box. He was very knowledgeable about the sport and players and enjoyed how baseball brings families together. Our family decided to celebrate his life, legacy, and passion for baseball by donating to build the José Milton Field. The field will provide student-athletes from around Miami-Dade County and visiting teams with a great playing experience in South Florida. We are thrilled that Caroline and the Marlins will participate in the dedication ceremony in April, and my husband Cecil will throw out the first pitch. Baseball means family and community, and we are excited that the José Milton Field will encourage families and the next generation to come together, sharing a passion for baseball and our Miami Marlins!