Texas Border Business
By Selene Rodriguez
South Texas College alumnus Roberto Rodriguez strives to make a difference every day in his role at the Weslaco Police Department, from changing lives to simply making someone smile.
A third-generation police officer, born and raised in Weslaco, Rodriguez, 32, credits STC’s community for laying the foundation that taught him the importance of empathy, involvement and caring for others in his pursuit of service.
“I come from a family with a long history in law enforcement. My father was a police officer, and so was my grandfather. It’s in my blood to serve and protect,” he said. “But it was definitely at STC where I truly built a sense of community, learned how to connect with people and gained the skills to be a responsible citizen and make good choices.”
After graduating from Weslaco High School in 2011, Rodriguez enrolled at STC with an initial interest in health care. However, he quickly realized that Criminal Justice was his true calling.
During his time in college, he immersed himself in various student organizations, including the Student Leadership Academy, which he credits as the foundation for his successful career. Additionally, Rodriguez worked as a work-study employee in the Student Activities department, fully invested in the STC community and its mission.
“Being a work-study student was key to achieving my goals. The flexibility with my schedule allowed me to work and still succeed,” he said. “I’m very grateful to STC for not only giving me the opportunity to work for three years, but also for providing me with an education.”
In 2014, just before graduating with associate degrees in Criminal Justice and Interdisciplinary Studies, Rodriguez also had the opportunity to attend a police academy.
“My days began at 6 a.m. and ended at midnight, but if it hadn’t been for STC’s flexible hours, I wouldn’t have made it,” he said. “From there, I had the opportunity to work with both the Mission Police Department and the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office, but I knew in my heart I would always come back to Weslaco.”
Last year, with nearly a decade of experience as a patrol officer, police department instructor and now police area representative, Rodriguez found a meaningful new way to give back by becoming Officer Shayne’s K-9 (Weslaco’s beloved therapy dog) handler, working alongside him to support those in need.
Having traveled alongside him across the Rio Grande Valley and Texas, he takes pride in representing Weslaco and advocating for the importance of emotional well-being.
“Shayne is very special. He’s trained to recognize cortisol, the stress hormone and provide a comforting presence. As human beings, we feel that, and it truly makes our day better,” he explained. “I’m fortunate to have the best job with him. With the growing awareness of mental health, we understand the vital role emotional support K-9s play in the community, and Shayne is an invaluable member of our agency.”
Recently graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Texas A&M University, Rodriguez now aspires to earn a master’s degree.
Inspired to lead by example as the father of a young child, he is driven to continue his personal growth and achievement, while also advocating for his profession and encouraging others to pursue a career in law enforcement.
“I remember being a student at North Bridge Elementary, seeing officers in uniform and dreaming of joining them one day. Now, I visit often and encourage the kids who stand where I once stood, reminding them that dreams do come true,” he said. “Living here, being born here and seeing the people I grew up with, I know I’m here to protect them. It’s something that truly touches my heart. I’m proud to say that many of us, who have become lawyers, doctors and teachers, all came from STC.”
For more information on STC’s academic programs, visit southtexascollege.edu/academics/.
