PHDR Community Spotlight - Rodolfo Gutierrez

Rodolfo is a community partner and has done immense work supporting the community and initiatives of the Program in Health Disparities Research. In this spotlight, he shares about his family, education, and work experience. Read the spotlight to learn more about his work with the community.

Tell me about yourself.
I am from Mexico and moved to Minnesota 28 years ago for my PhD at the University of Minnesota. I studied history and later taught at the University of Minnesota. My wife is an epidemiologist, and we have two children. It was an adjustment getting used to the cold weather in Minnesota.

What do you currently do?
I love working with people, and after teaching at the university for a while, I eventually transitioned to being the Executive Director at HACER in 2007. HACER is an advocacy-driven, Latino-specific organization focused on research, evaluation, and community action. I began my role with HACER based on several factors, including my passion for community-based participatory research, connecting academics to the community, and translation work.
PHDR has been a key component to my life, career, and starting at HACER. In my collaborative role with PHDR, I discovered my passion for participatory research. In this capacity, I provide advice on projects and grants, community-based participatory research, partner with PHDR faculty, and connect in community advisory committees. It is essential to create opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge sharing. I value the support I have received from PHDR and how it has benefitted HACER. The work PHDR does is valuable and echoes my commitment to eliminating health disparities and promoting equity.

What are your interests or hobbies?
I love reading, particularly about disparities in the world and the history of wars. My father was a musician, so I grew up listening to a variety of music and appreciating the art. I enjoy going to concerts and have attempted to play the guitar and drums but don’t consider myself a musician. My favorite way to relax is reading a book and playing jazz or classical music in the background.