Milvia Rodriguez

Milvia Rodriguez is the Program Director for the Public Policy undergraduate program at The College of the University of Chicago and the Harris School of Public Policy - one of the most popular majors on campus, graduating over 100 students annually. In this role, she oversees all operational areas of the program and has led the development of several student-centered initiatives that promote academic excellence, leadership, mentorship, and holistic engagement. Her efforts include founding a Student Advisory Board and launching a Mentorship Program that connects undergraduates with graduate students and alumni, strengthening both academic and professional pathways.

A passionate advocate for public service and civic engagement, Milvia has built enduring partnerships with community organizations and campus centers to connect students with researchers and practitioners across Chicago, bridging academic learning with real-world impact.

Prior to her current role, she served as Associate Director of Academic Advising and Financial Aid at the Harris School. In 2019, she was honored with the University’s Marlene F. Richman Award for Excellence and Dedication in Service to Students, a prestigious recognition awarded annually to one staff member nominated by students. That same year, she received the Harris Award for Community, selected by her colleagues.

Beyond her formal roles, Milvia is deeply committed to building strong, authentic partnerships across communities. She has spearheaded campus-wide initiatives that celebrate identity and foster belonging, including leading the University’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration (2018–2020), supported by institutional grant funding. She is also a co-founder of a cross-departmental staff network that began with seven members in 2016 and now includes over 250 participants—promoting collaboration and connection among university staff from diverse, underrepresented backgrounds.

Milvia remains actively involved with Harris student organizations such as Minorities in Public Policy and Black Action for Public Policy, and she maintains strong relationships with alumni around the world. Her leadership continues to center service, connection, and the student voice at every level of program development.

Milvia holds a Doctorate in Musical Arts from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, a Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Northwestern University, and a Master’s in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the Gnesin Academy of Music in Moscow, Russia.