After working in the casino industry for 23 years, Mrs. Cassandra Rodriguez saw a sharp decline in the industry and decided it was time to change careers. Living in Vineland, she enrolled in Cumberland County College where she graduated with an Associate’s degree in Engineering, then transferred to Rowan University. Cassandra graduated in May of 2019 with a B.S. in Community and Environmental Planning, a minor in Sustainable Buildings, and a B.A. in Geography along with a Certificate of Undergraduate Studies in Environmental Policy and Economics. While attending Rowan, she volunteered as a document and communications translator on a clinic project for Rowan Engineers Without Borders. Cassandra studied courses in Civil and Environmental Engineering and was part of a team that initiated a Rowan Chapter of the Society of Hispanic Engineers. She also worked as a student research assistant over several months on a community and partner based green infrastructure project in the Waterfront South area of her original hometown of Camden. Cassandra was a member of the two honor societies, Tau Sigma and Gamma Theta Upsilon and was recognized by the Delaware Valley Regional Geographic Association as an outstanding student. A summer internship with the Cumberland County Department of Planning led to a year-long commitment, then full time position after graduation, where she now works as a Planner Trainee and continues to strive for more.
On Saturday, October 19, 2019, Cassandra was honored at the Gala for the NJ Hispanic Leadership Summit where she received the American Dream Leadership Award. This award was presented to Cassandra for her courage in going back to school and embracing a new career. "It was very humbling to be recognized among so many great leaders in the Hispanic community," said Cassandra.
Cassandra was nominated by retired Camden Police Chief and current Woolynne Police Chief, Edwin Figueroa.
Cassandra Rodriguez with Woolynne Police Chief Edwin Figuero
Pictured are recognitions Cassandra received from the NJ Legislature and the City Council of Camden