Spirit of the College of Professional Studies Award

VIRGILIO RODRIGUEZ, JR., PROF ST '09

Milwaukee

As associate executive director of the United Community Center in Milwaukee, Virgilio Rodriguez, Jr., has made an impact on many in the community. During his tenure, the pre-college and graduate tracking program increased from 0 to 250 clients, and the college enrollment rate for the center’s members grew from 8 to 80 percent. In addition, the UCC was recently named one of the top 25 Hispanic nonprofit organizations by Hispanic Business Magazine.

So it's no surprise that Virgilio was selected to receive Marquette's Spirit of the College of Professional Studies Award. 

“I enjoy designing, developing and leading new initiatives,” said Virgilio, who manages and trains a staff of more than 20 employees and 140 volunteers at the UCC. “I firmly believe leadership, integrity and passion are the foundation for achieving unprecedented results and success.”

Virgilio earned a bachelor’s degree in leadership and organizations from Marquette in 2009 and an executive master of business administration from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee. Before joining the UCC in 2002, was director at St. Vincent de Paul and a member of the United States Marine Corps.

Fun facts about Virgilio:
Hometown: Milwaukee
Favorite quote:  “Happiness is when what you think, what you say and what you do are in harmony.” — Gandhi
Someone alive or dead he’d like to have dinner with: St. Ignatius of Loyola
The Marquette faculty member who had an impact on Virgilio: Dr. Maureen McAvoy
Favorite Marquette memory: Lying on the grass and taking in the sun near St. Joan of Arc Chapel.
In grade school, Virgilio wanted to be a veterinarian.
Most influential person in his life: His older sister, Yolanda