Rodriguez to lead UCR school of undergraduate education

Louie Rodriguez has been named UC Riverside’s vice provost and dean of undergraduate education, effective April 1.

A professor in the university’s school of education, Rodriguez’s research concentrates on educational equity, Latino education, and community engagement, according to a statement on the university’s website.

He was the school of education’s interim dean from 2019 to 2022.

“Louie proved to be a dynamic and steadfast leader as interim dean.” said Elizabeth Watkins, UC Riverside’s provost and executive vice chancellor, in the statement.

“He strengthened community engagement, enhanced interdisciplinary research, and led a number of student-centered initiatives, all during the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Rodriguez came to UC Riverside in 2016, after teaching at Cal State San Bernardino and Florida International University, according to the statement.