BORN INTO A MILITARY FAMILY
Michael was born on an Air Force base in Sherman, Texas, to a family shaped by sacrifice, resilience, and a deep love of country. His father, Vincent Arias Jr., immigrated to the United States in 1948 from the Philippines after his family survived the Japanese occupation during World War II, enduring the forced confiscation of their home and the loss of much that they had built. Like so many who fled tyranny and oppression, they came to America seeking freedom, security, and opportunity.
Once in the United States, Michael’s father proudly served his adopted country as a fighter pilot and Captain in the United States Air Force, and became a US Citizen in 1952. Growing up, Michael lived on Air Force bases in Texas, Germany, and Massachusetts before his father was ultimately stationed at Homestead Air Force Base during the Cuban crisis. When Michael was six years old, the Arias family put down permanent roots and made Miami home.
That love of country was also instilled in him by his mother, Rita, a descendant of Americans who served in both the Revolutionary War and the Civil War. Rita shared stories passed down through generations that instilled pride in America’s founding ideals and enduring promise. Together, his parents’ histories reflect a uniquely modern American story: immigrant grit and determination alongside deep-rooted American legacy and pride.
RAISED & ROOTED IN MIAMI
Growing up in Coral Gables, Michael developed a deep appreciation for Miami’s unique natural landscape. As a Cub Scout and Boy Scout, he spent countless weekends camping near Matheson Hammock Park and exploring the Everglades. Family boating outings on Biscayne Bay further shaped his love for the outdoors and connection to South Florida’s waterways.
Michael attended local public schools, graduating from Ponce de Leon Junior High and Coral Gables Senior High School. A dedicated student-athlete, he competed at the varsity level in both water polo and swimming, experiences that reinforced the discipline, teamwork, and perseverance that continue to guide him today.
Michael received all three of his college degrees from Florida State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Finance, an MBA, and a Juris Doctor. His education grounded him in fiscal responsibility, legal integrity, and practical leadership, principles that have guided his career in public service and the private sector.
For more than 35 years, Michael and his wife, Michelle, have called Coconut Grove home, where they have lived in the same house and raised their son in the Miami community they love. His wife is an Alumna of the University of Miami, and their son is a senior at The U.
PUBLIC SERVICE, FEDERAL ENFORCEMENT & BUSINESS LEADERSHIP
Michael Arias has built a 40-year career at the intersection of public service, law enforcement, and private-sector leadership and has been a member of the Florida Bar since 1982. He began his career as a state prosecutor in Orange County, Florida, where he prosecuted criminal cases and gained firsthand experience protecting communities and upholding the rule of law.
He later joined the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission in Miami as an Enforcement Attorney, where he investigated and prosecuted financial fraud and misconduct, holding powerful institutions accountable and protecting investors.
Michael then transitioned to the private sector, bringing his legal and regulatory expertise into senior leadership roles at leading financial institutions and broker-dealers. His experience managing complex regulatory environments and leading high-performing teams has given him a deep understanding of how effective oversight, accountability, and ethical leadership drive long-term success.
In 2004, Michael returned to the practice of law, representing investors, financial professionals, and small broker-dealers, advocating for fairness, accountability, and ethical conduct in the financial system.