Stephanie Rodriguez joined the New Mexico Higher Education Department as Acting Secretary in September of 2020. Previously, she served as Senior Policy Advisor under Governor Lujan Grisham and covered topics and policies surrounding education, military affairs, and the national laboratories. Prior to joining state government, Rodriguez worked for Governor Lujan Grisham in Congress from 2014 to 2018, where she reviewed the impacts of federal policies on New Mexico communities and engaged in local and statewide outreach efforts. Additionally, she served as the liaison for the Congressional Hispanic Caucus on state initiatives surrounding equity and inclusion.
As the first college graduate of her siblings, Rodriguez understands the importance of supporting student success and expanding access to education for all New Mexicans. She is committed to ensuring that students can pursue education and career opportunities right here at home.
She earned a master's and bachelor's degree from the University of New Mexico's School of Architecture and Planning, and she is a former provost fellow and guest lecturer at the University of New Mexico’s School of Architecture and Planning.