SFC Antonio Rey “Rod” Rodriguez lived a life defined by courage, purpose, and devotion to his country. Raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico, Rod stood out early for his drive, discipline, and commitment to others. That same spirit led him to enlist in the U.S. Army after high school, where he quickly distinguished himself through grit, integrity, and leadership. Rod rose to the ranks of America’s elite — first as a Ranger in the 75th Ranger Regiment, completing eight deployments, and later with the 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne) as a Cryptologic Linguist, deploying twice in support of Operation Freedom's Sentinel. His teammates remember him as selfless, disciplined, and fiercely loyal—a leader who inspired excellence in everyone he served beside.

On February 8, 2020, during combat operations in Afghanistan's Nangarhar Province, Rod made the ultimate sacrifice at just 28 years old. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart among other honors.

The SFC Antonio Rey “Rod” Rodriguez Memorial Business Scholarship honors Rod’s legacy by empowering students who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and a commitment to excellence, qualities Rod embodied every day. This scholarship supports the next generation of business leaders and entrepreneurs who, like Rod, aspire to make a meaningful impact