Thumbnail of speaker Fernie Rodriguez.

Speaker

Fernie Rodriguez

Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, UW–Madison

Dr. Fernie Rodriguez brings a strong background in student affairs, advocacy and programming for underrepresented students, as well as in academic support. They have a keen understanding of the many intersectional identities that students bring to their college experience and how supporting and celebrating these attributes contribute to their holistic development. Dr. Rodriguez is a first-generation college graduate.

Originally from El Paso, Texas, which is located on the U.S. border with Mexico. They earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Texas at Austin, a master’s in higher education student personnel administration from New York University, and a doctorate in higher education from the University of Minnesota.

Speaking in

Frayed Narratives of Belonging: Exploring Complex Stories of Identity and Inclusion

Day Two: November 14, 2024 | 10:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m., Breakout Session Option 1

Dean of Students Christina Olstad and Associate Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs Fernie Rodriguez will reflect on and share their experiences and lessons learned as queer leaders from working with and supporting marginalized communities. They will offer valuable insights and considerations for practitioners navigating the intersection of identity, personal values, and their roles as institutional representatives.

Session Objectives

  • Share insights on lived experiences from queer leaders navigating identities, values, and professional expectations 
  • Share two journeys of diverse professionals’ experience in leadership roles 
  • Share values, skills, and knowledge to support building inclusive student services