Rodney Cruise

SVP & COO at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Rodney Cruise joined Embry-Riddle in March 2013. He provides leadership and direction for Information Technology, Human Resources, Institutional Efficiency, Corporate Relations, News and Media, Campus Safety, Facilities and Capital Planning at the university, supporting more than $800 million in construction projects on all campuses.

In addition to operational responsibilities, Rodney supports the strategic development of Embry-Riddle’s Research Park, working to attract companies—ranging from national and international aviation/aerospace groups, to technology businesses in all stages of development, helping to recruit them to Florida, and in particular, to our immediate community. He leads all government relations initiatives, working closely with state and national leaders in support of Embry-Riddle’s mission to expand research, increase entrepreneurship and create high-paying jobs.

Rodney currently serves as the Vice Chair of Starter Studio and Chair of Daytona State College’s Facilities and Capital Planning Committee. He is a member of the Executive Board of Directors of the Daytona Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce as well as the Daytona Beach Rotary Club. Currently, he is also a member of Congressman Michael Waltz’s Transportation Advisory Committee.

Before joining Embry-Riddle, Rodney served as Vice President of Business Development for Sodexo, where he held multiple leadership positions. His tenure at Sodexo included service on national and international teams focused on complex efficiency challenges as well as IT projects. He also acted as the National Chair for the Sodexo Organization of Latinos and supported an array of diversity initiatives.

Previously, he has served multiple years on the Executive Board of Directors of the Daytona Beach Regional Chamber of Commerce, where he was appointed to the ISB Coalition. He also served as a member of the Beachside Redevelopment Committee for Volusia County, and as a a former Board Member for Hope Place. In addition, he served on the board of Halifax Habitat for Humanity and with many other local initiatives.

Rodney was recognized in 2011 as Outstanding Adult Volunteer of the Year by the United Way of Volusia and Flagler County. He was presented the Community Legacy Award in 2013 by the Community Foundation of Volusia and Flagler. He was recognized as Board Member of the Year and Volunteer of the Year during his service with Halifax Habitat for Humanity.

Timeline

  • SVP & COO

    Current role

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