Joseph E. Rodriguez

About Joseph E. Rodriguez

Joseph “Jody” Rodriguez was raised in Bryan, Texas in a large, close-knit family. His great-grandfather was the first Mexican citizen to settle in the area, and the wide-brimmed sombrero he wore while walking down Bryan’s downtown streets is noted in the city’s historic Carnegie Library. From an early age, he was encouraged to honor his cultural roots, work diligently, and serve his community.

After graduating from Bryan High School in 1989, he attended Texas A&M University. While earning his Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, he worked as a disc jockey for a local Hispanic radio station, gaining insight into the community through fundraisers, outreach events, and advocacy efforts. Following his graduation in 1994, he moved to Houston and worked in investments and mutual funds. Motivated by a desire to help others, he then pursued a legal education at the Thurgood Marshall School of Law and was licensed to practice in May 1999.

He practiced law in Houston for about two years before returning to Bryan/College Station, where he partnered with longtime friend and attorney Louis Gimbert to establish Rodriguez & Gimbert, P.L.L.C. in 2001. Since his return, he has maintained an active role in local organizations, including the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Fiestas Patrias Mexicanas of Bryan/College Station, and the Hispanic Forum of Bryan/College Station, where he served as president. He is also a lifelong member of Santa Teresa Catholic Church.

He is married to attorney Marie Portales Rodriguez, and together they have three children.