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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
From NSU Student to NSU University School Mom
When Jessica Rodriguez, M.P.A., first came to NSU, she had no idea she would be staying for a while. Back in 2000, her goal was to earn a bachelor’s degree from the university, so she could go on to pursue a career in sports administration. However, life took her on a different path. After obtaining her undergraduate degree, she realized she wanted to keep going.
“I knew I wanted to come back and get my master’s and I knew about [NSU’s] tuition reimbursement program, so I took a job as an administrative assistant at the graduate school of computer information sciences [now the College of Engineering and Computing],” said Rodriguez.
Since then, she not only finished her graduate program, but she has worked her way up the ranks as a NSU employee. Today, she is the director of Communications and Alumni Affairs at the Abraham S. Fischler College of Education. Regarding her experiences, she said, “Overall, I think NSU is a great place to work. It offers great benefits and I like the culture here.”
Rodriguez also speaks highly of Kimberly Durham, Psy.D., the interim dean of the Abraham S. Fischler College of Education. “Dr. Durham really lets me use this creative mind that I have. I kind of have these crazy ideas and she’s like, ‘yes, let’s do it! Let’s work with it!’ She does a really good job of making everyone feel welcome and part of the Fischler family.” With Durham’s encouragement, Rodriguez has contributed some fun ideas to help increase employee giving, including a “pie in the face” challenge and a “balloon pop” game.
In addition to being a NSU alumna and employee, Rodriguez is also mother to two young girls, one of whom currently attends NSU University School’s Lower School. Rodriguez has seen a notable difference in her daughter’s education since switching her over from public school. “It’s a very forward-thinking school. They’ve opened my daughter’s eyes to things she probably would’ve never been exposed to before.” Rodriguez supports the school’s innovative efforts by donating funds through payroll deductions.