Tampa, Florida (CNN) — Sen. Marco Rubio's introduction of Mitt Romney Thursday at the Republican National Convention will touch on themes of Americans exceptionalism, including Rubio's own experience growing up as the son of Cuban exiles, according to a source familiar with Rubio's plans.

The source said Rubio would delve into themes he's used for the past several years, including the sacrifices his parents made to ensure their children had every opportunity they themselves were denied.

Rubio will also tell delegates that America is headed in the wrong direction, making the case that Mitt Romney is the candidate to turn around a struggling American economy. Romney, Rubio will stress, understands what makes America exceptional: people taking chances by starting businesses and hiring workers.

The Florida senator will also point beyond Romney's experience as a business leader to his roles as a husband, father, and community and church leader, arguing the candidate's personal attributes qualify him as a great leader.

Rubio is slated to take the stage around 10 p.m. ET Thursday, and will introduce Romney before the GOP presidential candidate formally accepts his party's nomination.

The-CNN-Wire/Atlanta
™ & © 2012 Cable News Network, Inc., a Time Warner Company. All rights reserved.