Tiffany Rodriguez

She/Her | Chief Academic Officer

Employer: American College of Healthcare Science

Moved Here from: Fort Worth, TX on May 2023

Why did you move here?

I relocated to Portland for my role as the Chief Academic Officer at the American College of Healthcare Sciences (ACHS). Prior to making the decision to move, my wife and I had the opportunity to visit Portland on multiple occasions. Ultimately, what drew us to this city was a combination of factors that made it an ideal place for us to settle down and raise our 6-year-old daughter. First and foremost, my deep passion for my work at ACHS played a significant role in our decision. The opportunity to contribute to the college's academic mission and make a positive impact in the field of holistic healthcare education was a driving force behind our move. Equally important was the warm and accepting nature of the people we encountered in Portland. From our interactions and experiences, we found the community to be incredibly welcoming and inclusive. This sense of acceptance and openness made us feel immediately at home and confident in our choice to establish roots here. Another aspect that greatly influenced our decision was Portland's breathtaking access to nature. The city's abundance of natural beauty, including parks, forests, and nearby scenic areas, captivated us. We envisioned a lifestyle where our family could enjoy outdoor activities, explore the wonders of nature, and foster a deep appreciation for the environment. Taking all these factors into account, we felt that Portland would offer an ideal environment for us to create a fulfilling life for our family. The combination of meaningful work, a welcoming community, and the opportunity to immerse ourselves in nature makes this city a perfect place to raise our daughter and build lasting connections within the community.

What is one thing that you need/want from a community right now?

When moving here, my wife and I were intentional in wanting to find opportunities for our daughter to continue to learn about her Hispanic culture. This continues to be one of our goals.

What kind of civic connection are you interested in making?

My passion lies in the realm of higher education, particularly in ensuring its accessibility for at-risk, minority students, as well as teenagers transitioning out of the foster care system. I am deeply committed to creating pathways that empower these individuals and provide them with equitable opportunities to pursue a college education and achieve their fullest potential. Recognizing the unique challenges faced by at-risk and minority students, I am driven to develop comprehensive support systems that address their specific needs. This includes implementing mentorship programs, scholarship initiatives, and tailored academic resources to facilitate their successful transition into higher education. By fostering an environment of inclusivity and support, we can empower these students to overcome obstacles and thrive academically. Similarly, my focus on teenagers exiting the foster care system stems from a desire to bridge the educational gap they often face. These young individuals often lack stable support networks and face numerous challenges in pursuing higher education. I am dedicated to collaborating with social service organizations, schools, and universities to develop comprehensive programs that provide mentorship, financial assistance, and life skills training to ensure a smooth transition and academic success. Expanding access to higher education for at-risk, minority students, and those leaving the foster care system not only transforms their individual lives but also benefits the community as a whole. By breaking down barriers and creating equal opportunities, we cultivate a more diverse and inclusive higher education landscape. These students bring unique perspectives, experiences, and talents that enrich classrooms and campus communities. Their success contributes to the overall advancement of our society, fostering social mobility, reducing inequalities, and promoting a more equitable future.