Carlos Rodriguez, Ed.D.

Dr. Carlos E. Rodriguez serves as Senior Vice President of Administration and Adjunct Faculty in the College of Education at Kean University. A seasoned practitioner–scholar and transformational leader, he brings more than three decades of experience spanning higher education and the K–12 public education system. His professional journey from student affairs and college access to university executive leadership and state-level reform reflects a steadfast commitment to equity, student success, and organizational excellence. 

As a former Executive County Superintendent and leader within the New Jersey Department of Education, Dr. Rodriguez played a pivotal role in advancing the landmark Abbott v. Burke reforms, ensuring equitable access and instructional quality across diverse districts. His work in the Office of Abbott Implementation and the Regional Achievement Centers shaped his research and instructional practice, grounding his current teaching in data-informed leadership, equity-centered policy, and educational transformation. 

At Kean, Dr. Rodriguez has led several institution-wide initiatives that bridge applied research and practice, including the Division of Strategic Analytics and Data Illumination (SADI) and the creation of CRECE: The Hispanic Leadership Center an initiative that develops leaders through education, mentorship, and community engagement. His scholarly publications explore topics such as data democratization, student success, and resilience in education, positioning him as a thought leader in higher education transformation and Hispanic student achievement. 

As an educator, Dr. Rodriguez integrates his extensive leadership experience into his teaching and mentorship. His instructional philosophy emphasizes contextual understanding, critical analysis, and applied learning, helping aspiring leaders connect theory to practice in meaningful ways. A frequent keynote speaker and presenter, he continues to contribute to dialogues on educational leadership, equity, and institutional innovation. Dr. Rodriguez earned his Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern Mississippi.