Welcome to CEHD Connect from Dean Rodriguez

As I look across the stories in this issue of CEHD Connect, I’m reminded of the many ways our college community continues to live its mission—improving lives through learning, discovery, and engagement. Each story represents not only an individual success, but the ripple effect that occurs when education and human development are put into action.

From the students finding their path through Check & Connect, to parents gaining confidence through Empowered Generations, and to the Institute on Community Integration’s 40 years of transforming lives and communities, we see what happens when knowledge is shared and compassion is practiced. These are not just programs—they are people connecting with people, and communities growing stronger together.

None of this is possible without our alumni and friends. Your generosity, your advocacy, and your belief in this work enable us to expand opportunities and imagine what’s next. Together, we prepare the next generation of educators, counselors, researchers, and leaders who will carry this mission forward—with creativity, integrity, and care.

As you read these pages, I invite you to reflect on your own connection to CEHD and the role you play in this collective story. Thank you for walking alongside us—and for helping us leverage our shared impact for the greater good.
As you may know, this is the last Connect welcome message you will receive from me for the next few years. As of January 1, 2026, I serve as the 8th chancellor of the University of Minnesota Morris, my alma mater. This role will last until some point in 2028, after which I will return as dean of CEHD. During that time, Senior Associate Dean Frank Symons will capably lead CEHD as dean, along with an outstanding group of leaders and managers across the college.

For the next couple of years, I join you as committed partners of CEHD, anticipating the next CEHD Connect to learn about the impactful work underway and how I can do more to contribute to the effort, grounded in hope, equity, and the power of collective impact.

–Michael C. Rodriguez
CEHD Dean and Campbell Leadership Chair in Education and Human Development