Nelson A. Rodriguez, Director
Born and raised in the City of Newark, New Jersey, Nelson has spent most of his life serving the multicultural communities of Northern New Jersey. He is an alumni of Montclair State University (2005, BA in Psychology and 2016, MA in Educational Leadership). As a Graduate Student, Nelson was awarded with the Student Leadership Award in Diversity and Equality and recently completed the Executive Leadership Institute for College Opportunity Program Professionals at Cornell University.
Nelson's experiences as a first-generation college graduate, and in community-based nonprofits, government, and for over ten years in higher education, has enabled him to create strong connections with those interested in advancing the futures of the students, families and communities he has served. Starting his career coordinating a youth leadership program for the nonprofit organization, La Casa de Don Pedro, Inc. gave him the tools needed to work within diverse community settings. Continuing to work and volunteer in the field of community and youth development for over twenty years has given Nelson the confidence and drive to operate diligently in any environment.
His aspiration is to continue to work towards improving individuals and communities by developing leadership skills, stronger partnerships and reaching for opportunities that will positively impact the lives of those around him. Nelson strives every day to be a mentor/role model for the young people in his family and community at large, and continues to work with others to create an environment that thrives on positivity and inclusiveness.