A Heartfelt Message from Leticia Rodriguez
It’s with deep appreciation and a full heart that I share that I will be stepping down as Executive Director of DIY Girls in November. Since joining the organization in 2017, it has been an extraordinary honor to work alongside an incredible team, board, and community to build a vibrant organization dedicated to empowering girls and gender-expansive youth through hands-on STEAM education.
Over these years, we’ve accomplished so much together. Since launching our first program in 2012, DIY Girls has empowered over 8,000 girls and gender-expansive youth. When I joined, we set out to build on our foundation, and together, we’ve made incredible strides. We’ve tripled the number of schools we serve, growing from 6 to 17 partner schools. We became an independent 501(c)(3) organization, developed a strategic plan, and expanded our team with a focus on long-term capacity. We have also deepened our impact by enhancing our curriculum and incorporating social-emotional learning to support not just students’ skills, but also their confidence and wellbeing. With your support, we’ve cultivated a strong network of funders and elevated our brand, opening doors to new opportunities and a broader reach.
Leading this organization has been a fulfilling experience, and I am immensely proud of the passionate, talented team that has made these milestones possible. The world needs organizations like DIY Girls now more than ever, spaces that equip students with the tools, confidence, and creativity to shape their futures.
I’m optimistic and excited for what comes next, and confident that under new leadership, DIY Girls will continue to grow, thrive, and serve as a beacon of what’s possible when the next generation is given the opportunity to lead and innovate.
Our Board Executive Transition Committee, led by Board Chair Arcelia Arce, will guide this process to ensure a successful transition. As I prepare to pass the torch, we are actively seeking a new Executive Director to lead DIY Girls into its next exciting chapter. You can see the job description here, and I encourage you to share it with your networks. I also invite you to meet our incredible board and team, who will continue championing the mission with passion and vision.
Thank you for your unwavering support, belief, and partnership over the years. DIY Girls will always have a piece of my heart, and I look forward to cheering it on for years to come.
Best,
Leticia Rodriguez
Executive Director
