Ernesto Perez has been a very busy man since founding Dade Medical College 14 years ago. Since its inception, the college has grown significantly and now boasts campuses in Homestead, Miami, Miami Lakes, Hollywood, West Palm Beach and Jacksonville.

In 2011, Dade Medical College acquired Jacksonville’s Southern Career College. The

name was changed to University of Southernmost Florida in order to more accurately

represent the new direction of the institution and in recognition of the institution’s approval by its accrediting body to offer degrees up to the master’s degree level.

The acquisition was the first for Dade Medical College.

Mr. Perez said he is focusing on the launch of the University of Southernmost Florida campus in Coral Gables and has been eyeing opportunities for Dade Medical College in other parts of the state and abroad.

Recruited to the University of Southernmost Florida, Mr. Perez said, are Dr. Steve Kerr, who will serve as president, and the former mayor of Coral Gables, Don Slesnick, who has been named dean of the school of public administration.

Reporter Laura Stace interviewed Mr. Perez at the University of Southernmost Florida’s financial aid and admission office at 178 Giralda Ave.