Transforming Education and Building Confidence: The Mission of Dr. April Ruiz
Dr. April Ruiz
Founding CEO of Mosaic Masterminds
This new release of the Anchoring Hope Podcast with host David Mansilla features a remarkable guest: Dr. April Ruiz. A seasoned professional with over 22 years of experience in education, engineering, city government, nonprofit philanthropy, and business, April embodies a life dedicated to service and excellence. She has served as a substitute teacher, tutor, adjunct professor, and held multiple leadership roles across sectors. Holding degrees in international business, business administration, and a doctorate in educational leadership, she brings both expertise and passion to every endeavor.
As the Founding CEO of Mosaic Masterminds, April leads a team devoted to empowering learners of all ages through personalized tutoring and critical thinking skills. Fluent in seven languages, she has partnered with organizations such as NASA, Grand Rapids Public Schools, and Great Minds in STEM, while also mentoring youth and entrepreneurs. At the heart of it all is her steadfast faith in Jesus Christ—a faith that has carried her through hardships, illnesses, and seasons of uncertainty, shaping her into a servant-leader whose mission is to transform lives through education and encouragement.
The Call to Entrepreneurship and Education
April’s story is rooted in a calling. While many of her generation were encouraged to pursue “secure” careers, God placed entrepreneurship in her path early. Growing up surrounded by quiet examples of Black-owned businesses and even her grandparents’ ventures, she later realized that this entrepreneurial spirit was part of her destiny.
She founded Mosaic Masterminds while still in college, starting with simple tutoring for peers. What began as a way to help others grew into a thriving enterprise employing educators across the U.S. and internationally. Like Proverbs 16:3 reminds us, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” April’s obedience to use her gifts for the benefit of others became the foundation of a business that not only supports academics but uplifts self-esteem and unlocks potential.
Faith Through Trials and Illness
April’s journey has not been without hardship. Diagnosed with a rare inflammatory bowel disease at just 10 years old, she endured multiple surgeries, hospitalizations, and ongoing health battles throughout her academic and professional journey. At times, these challenges interrupted her education and nearly cost her life.
Yet, rather than breaking her spirit, these trials deepened her faith. She shared that each recovery reminded her that her life was spared to be a blessing to others. Like Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:9, she testifies, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” April’s persistence is a testimony that even in weakness, God’s strength shines brightest.
Balancing Work, Calling, and Leadership
April is no stranger to hard work. For years, she juggled multiple jobs while growing her business. She has worked in education, engineering, city government, and nonprofit philanthropy, always with diligence and discipline. Eventually, she stepped away from corporate roles to pursue Mosaic Masterminds full-time, trusting God to sustain her.
Through this journey, she learned an important leadership lesson: entrepreneurship is not about glamour, but about stewardship. She encourages aspiring leaders to maintain stability while growing their ventures—reminding them that balance, discipline, and faith are essential. Like Colossians 3:23 teaches, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
Gratitude, Obedience, and Surrender
One of the recurring themes in April’s story is gratitude. Having faced near-death experiences, she has cultivated daily thankfulness—for health, for family, and for God’s sustaining presence. She also recognizes the power of obedience, learning to seek God’s direction before making decisions rather than after.
Her testimony echoes Philippians 4:6–7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God… will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” By practicing gratitude and surrender, April experiences God’s peace even in seasons of uncertainty.
Looking Forward with Eternal Perspective
With her recent PhD in Educational Leadership, April now finds herself at a crossroads, waiting on the Lord for direction. Whether through teaching, scaling Mosaic Masterminds internationally, or mentoring future leaders, she is committed to following God’s leading.
Her message to the world is clear: live boldly, focus on what truly lasts, and keep eternity in perspective. As she shared, “Everything here on earth is temporal. Live your life in a way that rewards you long term, not just in this realm.” Her words reflect Matthew 6:20: “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Through her leadership, resilience, and faith, Dr. April Ruiz reminds us that true success is measured not in worldly accolades but in eternal impact.
Closing Thought
Dr. April Ruiz’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and faith. From overcoming illness to leading with excellence in education and business, she exemplifies how God uses trials to refine leaders for His glory. Her life echoes the promise of Romans 8:28—“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
Written by Jovilyn Dela Cruz
“Everything here on earth is temporal. Live your life in a way that rewards you long term, not just in this realm.”
