Adult learner who earned her citizenship in January named Student of the Year

Renata Rodriguez shares her story of determination and a dream

Southern Westchester BOCES student and newly minted U.S. citizen Renata Rodriguez has been named Student of the Year by the New York Association for Continuing and Community Education. She will be honored at a ceremony during its annual conference in Albany on May 1.

Ms. Rodriguez was a student in SWOCES' Citizenship Exam Preparation and ESL courses offered by the Center for Adult & Community Services through its Adult Literacy Program at the Community Resource Center in Mamaroneck.

An immigrant from Brazil, she came to the U.S. in 1991 with her son and currently works as a nanny in Rye. She is also a cancer survivor, crediting that battle with strengthening her determination and desire to build a better life for her family.

Ms. Rodriguez was sworn in as a citizen in January 2025 and intends to enroll next in SWBOCES' Microsoft Office Suite certification program at St. Gabriel's School in New Rochelle.

"Thanks to SWBOCES and the Community Resource Center, I found my American Dream," Ms. Rodriguez said. "My dreams of a better life for me and my son are getting closer. The key to my success is my determination, chasing the promise of America, a land where with hard work and determination, all dreams come true."

Director of Adult & Community Services Tracy Racicot and Supervisor of Adult Literacy Programs Maria Guerrero expressed pride in Ms. Rodriguez's accomplishments.

"Renata has worked so hard and never gave up on her dream of citizenship and a better life," Ms. Guerrero said. "Like so many of our students, she has a resilience and a spirit that are inspiring. The Student of the Year honor is truly well deserved."