Educational/Professional Background

Geraldine Rodriguez, a graduate of DePaul University, earned her Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 1993, and her Master’s degree in Information Systems Technology in 2005. She has over 30 years of experience working in the field of child welfare. For the last 18 years, her work has focused on statewide projects and initiatives focused on continuous quality improvement. Ms. Rodriguez has worked as the logistics manager for the recent federal Child and Family Services Review (CFSR) in Illinois and she continues the role of project lead for the state’s PIP Measurement Reviews which the state is evaluated on progress towards federal Program Improvement Plan (PIP) goals. She has provided technical support and CQI presentations/training for DCFS and private agencies for federal and state case reviews, data collection, and data analysis systems. She developed a web-based platform for quality improvement staff from the state and private sectors that provides a forum for data and resource information sharing. Ms. Rodriguez has distinguished herself in developing branding and marketing for many statewide reviews and initiatives.

Research/Practice Interests

Ms. Rodriguez joined the Foster Care Utilization Review Program in 2005 where her work centers around federal and state reviews, providing project management and technical assistance to DCFS and private agency staff. She is currently the Program Director and work in collaboration with the IDCFS Division of Quality Assurance in developing and implementing data literacy, implementation of several initiatives that assist in promoting effective caseworker practices. Her future interest involves examining the way that technology affects efficiency and enhancements to the structure of organizational management.