College district chancellor to speak at AAUW Redlands

San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Rodriguez will speak about women and leadership at the American Association of University Women Redlands Branch meeting Tuesday, Sept. 8, at the University of Redlands.

Rodriguez will present "You Don't Have to Be Loud to Lead," exploring how women can lead with confidence and make a meaningful impact while navigating barriers.

Her presentation will highlight why "leadership is not about being the loudest in the room but about creating impact, opening doors, and making change that lasts." The program will also address the benefits of women in leadership, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, and the value women leaders bring to organizations.

Rodriguez is the 16th chancellor of the San Bernardino Community College District, which serves about 30,000 students through Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Valley College, a workforce training center, and KVCR public radio and television.

She previously served as president of San Bernardino Valley College and as vice president of student services at Las Positas College and Palo Verde College in Blythe. During more than 30 years in higher education, Rodriguez has focused on student success and building community partnerships.

The first in her family to earn a college degree, Rodriguez has made eliminating barriers to student access and success one of her leadership priorities. Her other priorities include building a diverse, equitable, inclusive and anti-racist institution; partnering to address regional issues; and ensuring fiscal accountability and long-term sustainability.

The AAUW Redlands meeting will be held in the Casa Loma Room at the University of Redlands. Social time begins at 5:15 p.m., followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Dinner costs $35.

Community members may also attend Rodriguez's program for free beginning at 6:45 p.m.

Dinner reservations can be made through Aug. 24 at AAUWRedlands.org. After that date, reservations can be requested on a space-available basis by emailing AAUWrsvp@AAUWRedlands.org or calling 909-362-4955.

AAUW is a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing equity for women and girls through education, empowerment and advocacy, including scholarships, STEM education programs and leadership training. More information about the Redlands branch is available at AAUWRedlands.org.