Miguel Rodriguez being recognized by Buffalo’s mayor Byron Brown during Hispanic Heritage Month.
What started out as research for a conference grew into recognition by City of Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown for Miguel Rodriguez.
Rodriguez, Director of Community Standards and Student Advocacy at Daemen University, received a certificate from Mayor Brown during an event celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month in October. At a press conference announcing a donation from the city to the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY, the mayor cited Rodriguez among individuals who have contributed to the local Hispanic community.
As Rodriguez explains, he was doing some research for a conference presentation when he noted the lack of individuals of Hispanic or Latino backgrounds in leadership positions, particularly in higher education.
“In my research, I was looking to see what was being done locally to promote Hispanic and Latino culture when I learned about the annual Puerto Rican & Hispanic Day parade to be held in August,” Rodriguez says. “I saw a great opportunity for Daemen to get involved in the parade as it aligned with our commitment to diversity and inclusion on campus and within the community.”
Rodriguez reached out to the parade organizers and helped arrange Daemen’s participation which included university staff walking in the parade, led by our very own mascot Willie the Wildcat. Daemen also set up a tent with games and prizes for community members, with coloring books for children.
While Rodriguez is proud of the recognition for his efforts, he notes that the parade was just one example of how he is involved with the Hispanic and Latino communities. He serves as advisor for the Hispanic student association at Daemen called Hispanos y Latinos Unidos. He also volunteers with the university’s Dare 2 Dream program for male students of color.
“Daemen was the first institution of higher education in the area to participate in the parade and the response from the community was incredible,” Rodriguez concludes. “We are grateful to everyone who helped make it possible.”
“I am incredibly proud of Miguel’s leadership and the name he is making for himself in the Daemen and Buffalo communities,” said Kerry Spicer, assistant vice president for student affairs and dean of students, and Rodriquez’s direct supervisor. “I could not be more pleased with his recognition. His creativity inspires students and colleagues daily.”