A trailblazing politician and businesswoman who broke barriers as the first female Secretary of State in Puerto Rico, championing education and economic development.
Sila Mara Caldern is a Puerto Rican politician, businesswoman, and philanthropist who made history by becoming the first woman to be elected as the Governor of Puerto Rico, serving from 2001 to 2005. Throughout her illustrious career, Caldern has held various positions in the government of Puerto Rico, including Secretary of State and Mayor of San Juan, leaving an indelible mark on the island's politics and development.
Sila Mara Caldern Serra was born on September 23, 1942, in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to entrepreneur Csar Augusto Caldern and Sila Serra Jess. Her maternal grandfather, Miguel Serra Joy, emigrated from Mallorca, Balearic Islands to Puerto Rico in the late 19th century, granting Caldern Spanish citizenship in 2012.
Caldern attended high school at the Colegio Sagrado Corazn de Las Madres in Santurce, Puerto Rico. In 1964, she graduated with honors from Manhattanville College in Purchase, New York, with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government. She later attended the Graduate School of Public Administration at the University of Puerto Rico.
Caldern's career began in 1973 when she was named Executive Aide to the Labor Secretary, Luis Silva Recio. Two years later, she was named Special Aide for Economic Development to then Governor, Rafael Hernndez Coln.
In the private sector, Caldern worked as Director of Business Development at Citibank, N.A. in San Juan. During her tenure, she designed and marketed several new consumer products, significantly increasing the earnings of the Retail Division of the Bank. In 1978, she became president of the Banco de Ponce, a leading commercial bank in Puerto Rico.
In 1988, Caldern was appointed as the 12th Secretary of State of Puerto Rico, serving until 1989. She later became Chief of Staff to Governor Rafael Hernndez Coln.
In 1997, Caldern was elected as the Mayor of San Juan, the capital of Puerto Rico, a position she held until 2001. During her tenure, she implemented various urban development projects, including the revitalization of the San Juan Bay waterfront and the construction of the Tren Urbano, a 10.7-mile rail system.
In addition to her public service, Caldern is a dedicated philanthropist, focusing on education and children's welfare. She has been involved with various charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico and the United Way of Puerto Rico.
Sila Mara Caldern's trailblazing career has inspired countless women to pursue careers in politics and public service. Her commitment to education, economic development, and philanthropy has left a lasting impact on the people of Puerto Rico.
In recognition of her achievements, Caldern has received numerous awards and honors, including the Order of the Golden Ark, the highest decoration granted by the King of Spain.
Today, Sila Mara Caldern continues to be an inspiration to Puerto Ricans and people around the world, serving as a testament to the power of hard work, dedication, and public service.
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