Marilyn Rodriguez Giron
Marilyn R. is a driven business professional, educator, and doctoral student at Grand Canyon University, where she is pursuing a PhD in General Psychology. With a strong academic foundation that includes a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Legal Studies in Tax Law, she brings a multidisciplinary perspective to her work. Professionally, she serves as a premium auditor at EXL and has also contributed to higher education as a part-time professor at California State University, Sacramento, combining real-world experience with academic insight. In 2021, Marilyn founded Kingston Xavier Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing inclusive soccer programs for children on the autism spectrum. Inspired by her son’s diagnosis and the lack of accessible programs during the COVID-19 pandemic, she created a space where children of all abilities can participate, grow, and feel supported. Through this work, she emphasizes inclusion, safety, and mentorship, creating meaningful opportunities for families and children while addressing critical gaps in community services. Beyond her professional and nonprofit leadership, Marilyn is deeply committed to mentorship, education, and advocacy. She has spent several years mentoring college students and actively participates in university committees focused on curriculum, diversity, and student success. Balancing her career, academic pursuits, and role as a mother of three, she prioritizes family while continuing to lead with resilience and purpose. Her journey reflects a commitment to empowering others, fostering inclusive communities, and creating lasting impact through both her professional and personal endeavors.
• Social Behavioral Research for Students
• RCR FOR SOCIAL AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE DOCTORAL LEARNERS
• Grand Canyon University- Ph.D.
• Washington University in St. Louis School of Law- Master's
• University of Phoenix- M.B.A.
• University of Phoenix- B.S.
• Butte College- A.S. x 2
• University Awards Committee
• Curriculum Subcommittee
• Sacramento State University
• Scholarship Review Committee
• Lambda Sigma Chapter of International Business Honor Society
• Delta Mu Delta
• LCAP Committee
• NUSD (Chairperson)
• Women Empowering Sacramento
• Ambition In Motion
• Million Women Mentors MWM
• Natomas Park Coyotes PTA
• ELAC Natomas Park Elementary
• SSC Natomas Park Elementary
• National Society of Leadership and Success
• Kingston Xavier Foundation (Founder and President)
• LCAP Committee
• NUSD
What do you attribute your success to?
My parents are my primary source of inspiration. I often tell others that I stand on their shoulders. They immigrated to this country in their early twenties from Guatemala. They undertook multiple jobs (four or five) merely to realize the American dream. Fortunately, my father succeeded in owning a trucking company. He exemplifies the foundational belief that self-confidence and ambition are limitless. The possibilities in this world are solely determined by one's mental outlook and determination. If one believes in their capability and possesses the mental resilience, they should pursue their goals without hesitation. I have learned this valuable lesson from my parents, as well as from my children.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
My parents gave me the best advice I've ever gotten: trust yourself, shed your limits, and chase what you want.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to Hispanic women is simple: ignore the glass ceiling. The lack of representation in leadership and business ownership is real, I've lived it. But I've also seen what's possible when you refuse to be discouraged and outwork every expectation placed on you. Women, especially women of color, often have to give ten times more just to earn a fraction of the recognition. So give it and then some.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The Hispanic community in Sacramento continues to face significant challenges: the lasting economic fallout of COVID, the closure of small businesses, and persistent school safety concerns. Compounding these issues is a stark lack of Hispanic representation in leadership, a gap that mirrors the everyday experience of Spanish-speaking professionals who are routinely overworked, undervalued, and left without adequate support.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
At the heart of everything I do are two core beliefs: that every person deserves to feel included and safe, and that family comes first. These values, paired with a deep commitment to hard work and perseverance, guide every decision I make