Richard L. Rodríguez

Richard L. Rodríguez has a diverse and extensive work experience in various industries, including education, law, development, and public administration. Richard L. currently serves as the President and Chief Executive Officer of Acero Schools, a network of 15 public schools in Chicago. In this role, they are responsible for overseeing the education and success of over 7,500 students and families.

Prior to their current position, Rodríguez worked as Of Counsel at The Law Offices of Marc J. Lane, a Professional Corporation. Richard L. also served as the Vice President and Business Development Director at Lendlease, where they played a key role in developing business opportunities.

Rodríguez has held several positions within the City of Chicago government, including Commissioner of the Department of Energy & Environment, Commissioner of the Department of Aviation, Commissioner of the Department of Buildings, and Executive Director of the Department of Construction & Permits. In these roles, they worked towards promoting safety, quality, and sustainability in the city's infrastructure.

Additionally, Rodríguez served as the President of the Chicago Transit Authority, overseeing the operation of the city's public transportation system. Richard L. also held managerial positions at the Chicago Housing Authority and the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Rodríguez's career has involved a strong focus on leadership, strategic planning, and community development. Richard L. has demonstrated a commitment to improving educational opportunities, promoting sustainable practices, and serving the public.

Richard L. Rodríguez's education history begins with a Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree in Sociology and Communications from Loyola University Chicago, which they obtained from 1989 to 1993. In 1994, they pursued a Juris Doctor (JD) degree in International Law from the Chicago-Kent College of Law, Illinois Institute of Technology. During this time, in 1995, they also completed a Summer Program in International Law at American University. From 1997 to 1998, Rodríguez attended the University of Guam, where they studied Economics.

In terms of higher education, Rodríguez later pursued a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Sociology from Loyola University Chicago, which they began in 2015 and is expected to complete in 2023. Additionally, they are a current PhD candidate in Sociology at Loyola University Chicago.

Rodríguez has also acquired various certifications throughout their career. Richard L. obtained certification in Project Management from Loyola University Chicago in 2003. In 2004, they received certification in Government Contracting from The George Washington University. Richard L. also acquired the certification "Driving Government Performance" from Harvard Kennedy School in 2007. Furthermore, Rodríguez holds professional bar certifications, including the Guam Bar from the Supreme Court of Guam in 1998, the Illinois Bar from the Supreme Court of Illinois in 1997, and the District of Columbia Bar from the District of Columbia Court of Appeals in 1999.