Drea Rodriguez
Drea Rodriguez
Meet the People Powering Our Mission
At WomenServe, our impact is only possible because of the passionate, talented individuals working every day to create lasting change in the communities we serve. Through this series of team member interviews, we’re shining a light on the people behind the scenes — their journeys, motivations, and the values that drive their work. Get to know our dedicated team as they share their stories in their own words!
Drea Rodriguez
Global Program Officer
1. Can you briefly describe your role at WomenServe?
As WomenServe's Global Program Officer since June 2024, I manage the implementation and oversight of our global programs, ensuring they align with the foundation's mission and strategic goals. My role involves coordinating with regional teams, providing technical support, and developing relationships with international partners to enhance program impact.
2. What motivated you to join WomenServe?
I was drawn to WomenServe's mission because I believe that achieving a just world requires uplifting our most marginalized individuals, who are often women and girls. My background as a nonprofit executive director specializing in conflict resolution and team building, combined with my experience as a consultant empowering residents and community organizers in Milwaukee, following many years as an educator and administrator, naturally led me to WomenServe. Here, I can continue to support and empower those who need it most.
3. Can you tell us about your previous work experience before joining WomenServe?
Before joining WomenServe, I built a diverse career that spans nonprofit leadership, education, and community organizing. I worked in conflict resolution and team building, leading a small nonprofit, and later as a consultant, empowering residents and community organizers in Milwaukee. My background also includes significant experience as an educator and administrator. These roles, particularly my work in unifying communities and fostering collaboration, have prepared me well for my current role at WomenServe, where I continue to champion the empowerment of marginalized women and girls.
4. How does your previous experience influence your work at WomenServe?
My previous experiences have deeply influenced my work at WomenServe, especially in empowering marginalized communities. I often apply the principles of Vygotsky's proximal development to support leaders in efficiently achieving our mission and vision. My upbringing, with parents who emphasized volunteering, instilled in me the importance of helping others, and as a first-generation immigrant, I understand the complexities of cross-cultural collaborations. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve on this team and continue making a meaningful impact.
5. What do you find most rewarding about your work at WomenServe?
As the newest member of WomenServe, I’m excited to see both its rich history and bright future. With a fresh perspective, I appreciate our past successes and the promise of our current projects. The dedication and creativity in our work—like helping young women in Rajasthan and building community support—are truly rewarding. Seeing how our efforts make a real difference in the lives of women and girls strengthens my commitment to our mission and inspires me to keep working towards our goals.
6. How do you see the impact of WomenServe's work in the communities we serve?
I’m understanding the impact of WomenServe's work in the communities we serve, particularly through our focus on education, economic opportunities, and essential resources. For instance, our programs have helped more girls stay in school and gain financial skills, leading to significant improvements in their lives. The changes are clear: women and girls have better access to education, spend less time on basic needs like water collection, and are empowered to pursue their dreams.
7. What are your passions or interests outside of work?
Outside of work, I’m passionate about community engagement, youth empowerment, and supporting women’s empowerment, which align perfectly with my role at WomenServe. I also love staying active in my two children's lives, owning two dogs and a cat, and enjoying activities like dancing, cooking, and reading. My comprehensive background in these areas, combined with my interests in volunteering and mentoring, helps me stay connected to our mission and deepens my understanding and enthusiasm for my work.
8. Who has been an inspiration to you in your professional journey?
My parents and my children have been the greatest inspirations in my professional journey. My parents’ strength and dedication deeply influenced me, especially since my mother passed away in the same year I had my daughter, which had a profound effect on how I show up in life. My children’s curiosity, love, and motivation inspire me daily and shape my approach to work, reminding me to stay committed to empowering others and to approach each challenge with a realistic and caring mindset.
9. What is a fun or surprising fact about you that people might not know?
A fun and quirky fact about me is that I can make a frog face with my fingers! I vaguely remember a substitute teacher in 2nd grade showing us how to do it, and it’s stuck with me ever since. It’s a silly little trick that always brings a smile!
10. How do you envision the future of WomenServe?
I envision the future of WomenServe as a dynamic and expanding force for positive change, with our work in Rajasthan serving as a blueprint for other countries with women and girls in need. My hope is that we build toward a global movement where our impact areas become the most accessible standard for all women and girls worldwide. As WomenServe grows, I see my role evolving to support and scale these initiatives, helping to ensure that our model of empowerment and support reaches more communities and creates lasting, global change.
11. What message would you like to share with the WomenServe community?
To anyone who wants to make a difference, I want to share that helping is so easy—every donation and every bit of awareness about the challenges women and girls face makes a difference. Your support empowers us to continue our mission and create lasting change. WomenServe is dedicated to holistic empowerment by addressing immediate needs and setting up economic and educational opportunities to build a stronger foundation for all. Your involvement helps us make this vision a reality, and collectively we can uplift and empower women and girls everywhere.
12. Can you share a favorite quote or mantra that you live by?
"No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens." - Michelle Obama
This quote by Michelle Obama resonates deeply with me and my work at WomenServe. I believe that empowering women and girls is crucial for any community's progress. By providing opportunities and support, we unlock their potential and drive positive change, reflecting my commitment to ensuring that everyone’s contributions are valued for a flourishing society.
13. Is there anything else you'd like to share about your journey or your role?
I’m excited to see where we are in 2030 and beyond! As I continue my journey with WomenServe, I am enthusiastic about the future and the impact we can make together. This forward-looking perspective fuels my passion for our work and motivates me to contribute to our long-term goals and vision.