Ladislao Rodriguez is a proud 2021 UC Berkeley alum who currently serves as the Director of Operations and Engagement for Cal Athletics’ Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Justice (DEIBJ) Office. In this role, he works to educate the department on equity and justice, celebrate the diverse identities within the coach, staff, administrator and student-athlete population, and accelerate the growth and leadership of those from historically underrepresented communities.

Born into a Chicano Cal family, Ladislao’s connection to UC Berkeley began before he could walk. His mother, Teresa Rodriguez, crossed the graduation stage in the spring of 1998 holding her diploma in one arm and newborn Ladislao in the other awaiting the embrace of his father, Carlos Rodriguez ’96. His family’s ties to Cal have only deepened over time, with multiple family members now contributing back to the university through mentorship, service, and philanthropy.

Ladislao earned his B.A. in Ethnic Studies and Sociology, graduating with High Honors for his senior thesis, OsoAthletic, OsoAcademic: The Educational Experience of Latinx Student-Athletes. As a student, he worked as a student-athlete tutor, volunteered with the Fam 1st Family Foundation, and emceed the 2019 Joe Kapp Scholarship Luncheon. He found community and strength in Latinx-serving programs such as Casa Magdalena Mora, Hermanos Unidos, and the Chicanx/Latinx Student Development Office.

Whether on the field, in the classroom, or in inclusive spaces, Ladislao’s work is rooted in his family’s legacy and a commitment to uplifting the next generation of changemakers.