Monique Rodriguez, newly appointed managing director of the Lamorinda Arts Council, brings her entrepreneurial experience and passion for the arts to guide the organization’s next phase of growth and community engagement.
Monique Rodriguez, a Berkeley-based entrepreneur and longtime arts enthusiast, was named the new managing director of the Lamorinda Arts Council last month, bringing a vision of growth, inclusivity and community engagement to the organization.
Born in El Paso, Texas, Rodriguez grew up immersed in diverse cultural experiences, a background she said informs her approach to leadership in the arts.
She earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from the University of Maryland before traveling to Milan, Italy, to study fashion design.
“Studying in Milan deepened my appreciation for creativity and design,” Rodriguez said. “It taught me how artistry intersects with culture, business and everyday life.”
Rodriguez said she was drawn to the Lamorinda Arts Council for its mission-driven approach and its history of fostering creativity in the local community.
“When I met the board members, it was clear this is a thoughtful, mission-driven group, and I knew it was the right fit for me,” she said. “I’m especially drawn to building systems that create long-term sustainability and allow organizations to grow in a meaningful, lasting way. Combined with my genuine love for the arts, this role felt like a natural and exciting opportunity to contribute.”
As managing director, Rodriguez said she is excited to guide the organization through its next phase of growth.
“I look forward to strengthening programs, supporting artists and creating systems that ensure the Lamorinda Arts Council continues to thrive for the next 75-plus years, while staying rooted in its mission,” she said.
Rodriguez brings extensive experience in entrepreneurship and business management to her new role. She is the founder of Old Salt Merchants, a specialty spice store in Berkeley.
“Building Old Salt Merchants from the ground up taught me how to manage operations, branding, sales and customer experience,” she said. “These skills will translate directly to supporting the growth of Lamorinda Arts Council and helping the organization reach its full potential.”
Expanding community engagement is a central goal for Rodriguez. She plans to continue building strong partnerships with local schools, businesses and community organizations while offering diverse and accessible programming that reflects the entire community.
“I believe in inclusive communication so people feel invited and excited to participate,” she said. “Art should be for everyone, and I want people from all backgrounds to feel represented and welcome.”
Rodriguez’s personal life reflects her dynamic and creative approach. She is married to Albert, a supportive husband who helps guide her through her ideas and projects, and she has two adult children – Simone, a sommelier in Chicago, and Ethan, who works at Apple in a data-focused role. The family recently adopted a Jack Russell terrier named Bandit, who she affectionately calls a “Jack Russell terror… I mean terrier.”
In addition to her professional and family commitments, Rodriguez is an avid runner who has completed both the Paris and New York marathons. She also enjoys cooking, photography and creating her own flower arrangements – hobbies that mirror her appreciation for creativity, attention to detail and persistence.
Looking ahead, Rodriguez envisions Lamorinda Arts Council as a sustainable, vibrant cultural hub deeply connected to its community.
“Success will be measured through increased participation, strong community partnerships, financial stability and the organization’s ability to deliver meaningful, high-quality programming,” she said.
Rodriguez said the arts are central to her life because of their ability to inspire, connect and provide new perspectives.
“The arts bring richness to everyday life,” she said. “They inspire creativity, create connection and help people see the world through new perspectives. The dream is free, the side hustle is sold separately!”
For more info about Lamorinda Arts Council, visit lamorindaarts.org/ and reach Rodriguez directly at moniquearod@gmail.com.