About Felix

Felix Manuel Rodriguez born in Waterbury, Connecticut, is the youngest son of Antonia Rodriguez of Penuelas, Puerto Rico.  While growing up in the public housing projects, Felix was exposed to both American and Puerto Rican culture and tradition.  As a child from a father-absent home, Felix knows all too well the challenges and struggles of a single parent home.  

A love for public speaking and a strong sense of social and civic responsibility led Felix to a career in public service.  Felix currently works for the Connecticut Department of Children and Families (DCF), as an assistant to the deputy commissioner, where he assists in the leadership of various agency initiatives. 

Felix also works as a professional boxing inspector for the Connecticut State Boxing Commission, motivated by his love for the sport and contribution it makes to life.  He participated in boxing events that were featured on national major broadcast such as Showtime, Univision, ESPN, and HBO.

Previously, he served as an undercover operative combating underage drinking for the Connecticut Liquor Control Division.  In the past, Felix has served as an outreach coordinator for U.S. Representative Nancy Johnson.  He also served as an assistant little league coach, where he developed self-confidence, promoted respect and sportsmanship.       

Felix has a deep-rooted interest in the education and development of children from underserved and economically underprivileged communities.  He recently served as president for the Hispanic Coalition of Greater Waterbury Inc, where he played an integral part in the development of after school programs, mentoring services and cultural activities.  Felix also served as co-chairman for the Greater Hartford Male Youth Leadership Program Steering Committee, a program designed to empower young men to achieve higher goals through education and community awareness.  Most recently, Felix was appointed Police Commissioner by the mayor of the city of Waterbury.  

Felix coordinated the first ever Muhammad Ali Day in Connecticut event to celebrate Muhammad Ali's 68th birthday and prolific career in and out of the boxing ring.  Felix's goal is to advance and promote Ali's core guiding principles of hope, respect and understanding and to inspire adults and children everywhere to be as great as they can be.  The Honorable Governor M. Jodi Rell proclaimed January 17, 2010 as Muhammad Ali Day in Connecticut.

In pursuing his passion for writing, Felix is a contributing writer to The Good Men Project Magazine, El Canillita Hispanic Newspaper, ALLVOICES.com, Essential Connections and Common Ground, the New England Child Welfare Commissioners and Directors newspaper.  Felix is an associate member of the Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI).  He is a writer who seeks to inspire children everywhere to dream big and learn more. 

Felix is a proud graduate of the Waterbury Public School System and Briarwood College, where he is seen and heard in their "I AM BRIARWOOD" marketing campaign.  He is currently enrolled at the University of Bridgeport pursuing his bachelors degree.  The Hartford Business Journal, the region's largest business publication, named Felix one of its 2009 "40 Under Forty" award winners for his contributions to the state. Felix was recently named 2010 City of Waterbury Mayor for the Day. He currently lives in Connecticut with his wife, Jennifer, and their two children, Felix Joeza, and Jalissa.

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The Good Men Project Magazine

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 Professional Boxing Inspector 

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Media photos

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© 2009 Felix Manuel Rodriguez, All Rights Reserved