Wendy Lee Rodgers
Dr. Wendy L. Rodgers is a dedicated education professional and organizational leader with nearly two decades of experience spanning from early education to higher education. Currently based in Ranger, Texas, she holds a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership from National University, where her research explored the vital connection between knowledge-sharing and institutional mission, vision, and purpose. Her work underscores the belief that when employees understand and align with an organization’s core principles, they are more likely to contribute meaningfully toward achieving its goals as a united front.
Over the past 13 years in higher education—including nine years in TRIO Student Support Services—Dr. Rodgers has guided countless students in discovering their unique learning styles and strategies for success. Drawing from her own educational challenges and triumphs, she emphasizes a personalized approach to learning, empowering students to thrive by understanding how they learn best rather than conforming to one-size-fits-all methods. Her leadership philosophy centers on servant leadership, problem-solving, and collaboration, with a firm belief in leading by example—never asking others to do what she herself would not.
A passionate advocate for institutional alignment and employee well-being, Dr. Rodgers seeks opportunities to serve as Vice President of Student Success or Vice President of Strategy & Innovation within a community college setting. Her vision is to create environments where mission-driven leadership and a shared sense of purpose uplift both employees and students. Grounded in faith and guided by her belief that “I may have leadership skills, but my leader is Jesus,” Dr. Rodgers continues to inspire transformation through intentional leadership, compassion, and a steadfast commitment to organizational excellence.
• National University - DBA
What do you attribute your success to?
GOD is first in my life. Without the Lord I would never have overcome any of my challenges. GOD blessed me with a loving and supportive family. I have a Mom who's heart hurt when she saw me struggling to learn. A Daddy who chose to love and support me even though I was not his. A husband Roy Rodgers (of 31 years) who has always told me "You're smarter than you think you are." Our daughters were always ready to step up and help. One was always ready to make me laugh with her mischievousness and the other with her healing hugs. I am also blessed with friends and co-workers who cheered me on as I worked on my degrees and then lifted me up when life fell apart. When you have leaders who intentially walk over in the cold to check on you, you know you matter to them. Our College is it's own small town, which means there are no secrets. Even my students would come over and hug me and ask me how my husband was when he came so close to dying in 2022. When you care for others it does come back to you in many different and oft times unexpected ways. Those around me are much better to me than I am to them. To say I am blessed is an understatement.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Don't be afraid to try. If it doesn't work then figure out why it didn't work, change it, and try again. You only fail if you give up. You won't get yes's unless you have recieved many no's first.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
You can do more than you believe you can. When it comes to making a difference you have to lead by example. I developed a quote and it is one of my favorites. "Words without action are useless." How many times have you been told something but then the actions of the person don't back up the words. If you want to be a leader who makes positive change, you MUST have actions that speak louder than you words. In the college setting we work with so many young people who don't have supportive families. They can learn to love and support through your actions. Don't be afraid to get in someone's face and MAKE them FEEL that you care about them. We can make a difference one person at a time. Also, very often, those who seem the happiest are the ones you need you the most. Pay attention to the smaller details. Don't be afraid to chase down someone you know needs you. I believe this is how we can reduce suicide in our young adults. We tell them "I'm fighting for you and not against you." Say it often.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Every few years the generations change. This current one can work any app but many don't know how to look up information. We have to be ready to change how we do things so we can help them bridge the gaps. Just because something worked five years ago, doesn't mean that it will now. Students are NOT all created equal. If we can help them understand themselves, then they can overcome their challenges.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My values are GOD, family, friends, and students. Everyday I set out to make someone elses day better. If I'm in a resteraunt and I see a Mom who is tired, I will identify something true about her and then complement her. When you do this you instantly see a persons day brighten. I value making a difference. When my time comes, I desire to hear Jesus tell me "Well done, good and faithful servant!" Matt 25:23 Life is short and I now realize it is getting MUCH shorter.