Employees of the Month Veronica Rodriguez

Veronica Rodriguez

Public Safety Department

Known to many as “V,” Deputy Chief Veronica Rodriguez of KCC’s Public Safety Department has spent more than two decades helping make Kingsborough Community College a safe and welcoming place.

Veronica plays a key role in overseeing daily operations, supporting staff, and working with campus leaders to protect students, faculty, staff and visitors. Her responsibilities include leadership, policy work, staff development, emergency preparedness and close coordination with both campus offices and outside agencies.

She said she always imagined herself in a service-centered job. “I’ve always believed in stepping up to serve others and helping create an environment where people feel safe and supported,” she said. “Knowing that the work we do directly impacts the safety and well-being of the campus community motivates me.”

For Veronica, leadership means showing up, listening and setting an example. “I’m most proud of mentoring staff, helping them grow into confident professionals, and contributing to a culture of accountability, respect, and teamwork within the department,” she said.

That approach has earned her deep respect across campus, especially within her department. Donna Cafiero of Public Safety, who nominated Veronica for Employee of the Month, said she has seen that commitment firsthand. “I have had the honor and privilege of working alongside DC Veronica for over a decade,” wrote Donna. “She is not only a remarkable leader and mentor, but also someone deeply respected and genuinely caring toward all members of the Kingsborough Community College family—faculty, staff, students, and the broader community alike.”

To Donna, the scene was not surprising. “This is who DC Veronica is at her core: fearless, selfless, and always ready to act in service of others,” she wrote. After the rescue, as Veronica walked back soaked from the water, Donna recalled a staff member calling out, “Thank God for V!” She added, “And I couldn’t agree more.”

Veronica offers this advice to KCC employees: “Kingsborough is a community: Get involved and build relationships. Take pride in what you do, stay open to learning, and never underestimate the value of teamwork.”

For Veronica, being named Employee of the Month is less about recognition and more about gratitude. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve Kingsborough and proud to be part of an institution that values dedication, growth, and community,” she said.