We had the good fortune of connecting with Miguel Juarez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Miguel, let’s talk legacy – what do you want yours to be?
If I can help it, I would want my legacy to be the love that I gave during my lifetime. I would rather that people benefit from the work I put in this world than be remembered as “someone”. Serving as president of The Columbus Jazz Society, which is a 501c3 nonprofit organization, has humbled and taught me so much about the value of personal sacrifice, investing in ideas, and connecting with one’s community.
When you’re younger it is tempting to mostly use your skills and abilities to reach heights and collect accolades, but as you get older you start thinking, “What can I do that can benefit more than myself?”

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Each and every one of my accomplishments can be directly attributed to a good relationship. From time to time, I have been blessed to meet people and be presented with opportunities. Although, I am usually under-qualified for the assignments, trust can go a long way if built on strong foundations. That being said, it has been a very challenging road. It’s not easy pushing for consistency when the world is anything but. “Rome was not built in a day, but they were laying bricks every hour.”

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Goetchius House, originally built in 1839 is planning on reopening soon as a fine dining restaurant, event space, bar, cafe, ice cream parlor, and more! This is very promising for our city. My wife and kids also love the Springer Opera House and the River Center. Besides that, The Loft is my favorite place for jazz and live music.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank the previous presidents of The Columbus Jazz Society, Mr. Jason Keaton, Mr. David Morgan, and Dr. David Banks. Their dedication to jazz and the arts has opened so many doors and opportunities for our community to share, enjoy, and learn from. Our city will forever be grateful for their wisdom and efforts.

Website: https://columbusjazzsociety.com/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/columbusjazzsociety

Facebook: https://facebook.com/columbusjazzsociety

Youtube: https://youtube.com/columbusjazzsociety

Image Credits
Photos by Charley Windham and Justin Harris (Late City Lights)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.