Dr. Stanley Rodriguez, Ed.D: Native Wisdom – The Kumeyaay Way of Life
Dr. Stanley Rodriguez is a dedicated educator, cultural advocate, and respected leader within the Kumeyaay community. Since 2018, he has served as the President of Kumeyaay Community College, where he has been a Kumeyaay Language Instructor since 2005. As a member of the Santa Ysabel Band of the Iipay Nation, Dr. Rodriguez has committed his life to preserving and promoting Kumeyaay culture, history, and language. His contributions to the community earned him a spot on the California Native American Heritage Commission, to which he was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom in 2021.
A U.S. Navy veteran who served from 1985 to 1991, Dr. Rodriguez holds a Master of Arts in Human Behavior from National University and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of California, San Diego. His groundbreaking work includes developing an accelerated language immersion program aimed at revitalizing the Kumeyaay language, which he passionately teaches to both Native and non-Native students.
Beyond his academic and leadership roles, Dr. Rodriguez is widely recognized for his cultural expertise. He has been instrumental in teaching traditional Kumeyaay practices such as bird singing, e’waa (shelter) building, and tool making. His commitment to educating younger generations about their cultural heritage has made him a beloved figure, with community members affectionately calling him “Stan the Man.” He is a board member of the Advocates for Indigenous California Language Survival, furthering his mission to strengthen language and cultural revitalization.
In addition to his educational work, Dr. Rodriguez is deeply involved in local community events and initiatives, such as the annual Baskets & Botany cultural event at the Tecolote Nature Center. His efforts to bring Native American culture to all who are willing to learn have earned him widespread recognition, including being named the 2015 American Indian Heritage Month Local Hero by Union Bank and KPBS.
Dr. Rodriguez’s life and work embody his dedication to preserving and revitalizing Indigenous culture for future generations, making him a true cultural ambassador and community leader.
