Rolando Damian Rodriguez, M.S., CFRE
President & CEO
Rolando Rodriguez is a trusted advisor and strategic partner to nonprofit leaders and boards, known for his ability to align vision, inspire philanthropy, and implement practical strategies that drive organizational growth. With deep expertise in fundraising, governance, strategic planning, and board development, Rolando brings a collaborative, coaching-based approach that transforms ambitious goals into actionable results.
As President and CEO of the Jackson Memorial Foundation, Rolando built the nation’s most successful public hospital foundation, raising more than $200 million to support programs including Ryder Trauma Center and Holtz Children’s Hospital. Under his leadership, the Foundation grew to over 100 employees, managing fundraising, grants, international business development, and customer service initiatives that helped elevate Jackson Memorial Hospital into a world-class medical center.
Rolando is also the founder of the International Kids Fund, which raised millions to provide life-saving care for critically ill children from around the globe. As the founding Executive Director of the Catholic Health Foundation, he launched new funding initiatives for the Archdiocese of Miami, including Genesis, one of the nation’s first residential care facilities for people living with AIDS.
He led the creation of the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami Foundation and has continued to spearhead major initiatives across the country. Signature projects include a $16 million capital campaign for the Friendship Circle of Miami, the launch of a national development office and growth campaign for Breakthrough Collaborative in San Francisco, and the successful start of a multi-million-dollar campaign for a new Ronald McDonald House on the Jackson campus. Most recently, he led strategic planning for the Coral Gables Community Foundation and launched a revitalized development effort and board for PATCHES in Florida City.
A skilled facilitator, communicator, and strategist, Rolando is deeply committed to building and empowering high-performing boards. He is a past President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Miami Chapter, served on the national AFP Foundation Board, and has chaired numerous civic committees and philanthropic events. He was inducted into the Miami Dade College Hall of Fame, and in 2024 was honored in Brickell Magazine’s Angels Among Us issue.
Now working with clients across the country, Rolando continues to lead initiatives that build capacity, elevate visibility, and expand impact—whether guiding a capital campaign, facilitating a board retreat, or crafting a compelling case for support. He has also launched international healthcare development projects across Latin America and the U.S., reflecting his broad vision and global mindset.
“I believe in practical solutions tailored to each organization’s unique needs. Successful philanthropy is grounded in common-sense strategies that inspire people to rally behind a credible cause. When done right, fundraising is energizing, rewarding, and even fun. Together, we can make it happen.”
Rolando Damian Rodriguez, MS, CFRE