2007 Smithsonian Traveling Exhibit:
“Portraits of Alumni Achievement”

Romeo Rodríguez, Jr. ‘82

“The lessons learned from the fear of failure and the belief that
we are not worthy can be most destructive.”

Romeo Rodríguez, Jr. ‘82, MS-ED
Superintendent
Zapata County I.S.D.

Romeo Rodríguez, Jr. lives his life by a simple creed: “Care to do the best in the service of others.” These words guide his daily activities in both family and professional life. As a child, he dreamed of attending Catholic school, which was never possible. His passion for education has continued to grow since then.

Rodríguez credits Vidal M. Treviño, a former superintendent of the Laredo Independent School District, with predicting his career path. His own qualities of humility and having a “firm, but fair heart” have proved beneficial in achieving his goals. Since undertaking the development of the Learning Assistance Program in 1978, Rodríguez has championed the right to quality education in the Laredo and surrounding areas.

His commitment to a variety of organizations in areas that support education and youth development has been unwavering. That is why he strives to promote a positive environment that is conducive to education and the future success of all students.