Principal Dan Frank informed the faculty on May 8 that Gina Rodriguez, Chief Advancement Officer for the past seven years, will be leaving Parker as of June of this year, for the position of Chief Development Officer at the Shedd Aquarium.

At Parker Rodriguez works directly with the Development Office, the Communication Office, and the Admissions Office, organizing auctions and other fundraising events in order to create capital for the school to utilize its expansion and advancement efforts.

“I think Parker is just such a special place,” Rodriguez said.  “I’ve enjoyed working with the administration, and certainly getting to work with the teachers and students as well, and it was a very difficult decision for me to take another role because this place has just meant so much to me. It’s been wonderful.”

Rodriguez has helped Parker reach the $94 million capital campaign goal, and increased annual fundraising and attendance at Parker’s Auctions, Cooke and the Colonel Dinners, Alumni Reunions, and the Garage Sale. Most recently, Rodriguez was part of the team that successfully raised five million dollars for the new Parker library, currently under construction.

According to Frank, Rodriguez’s work has been key in the growth of Parker, and she has also made a personal impression on many of her colleagues. “Her attuned understanding of Parker’s values has made her an invaluable voice in shaping Parker’s strategic thinking for the future and for building a team of advancement office colleagues who are outstanding in what they do for Parker,” Frank said in his email to faculty. “We are indeed a better school because of Gina’s commitment and engagement, and I am personally grateful to her for her efforts and accomplishments.”

According to the Shedd website, Rodriguez’s new job is “a key new position” within the organization. “Rodriguez will oversee the dynamic and comprehensive development programs and staff focused on building and expanding vital funding from individuals, foundations, corporations and government sources that allows the aquarium to advance its efforts. She will also oversee Shedd’s more than 25,000-household membership community.”