University of Miami Names Vice President for Government Affairs – Rudy Fernández

“The University of Miami today announced that Rudy Fernández has been appointed to serve as the Vice President for Government Affairs. He begins his new post February 12.

“I am delighted to announce Fernández’s appointment to the University of Miami,” said UM President Donna E. Shalala. “He comes to us with a wealth of experience, knowledge and leadership in government affairs.”

“It’s a homecoming for me,” said Fernández. “I grew up in Miami and I am passionate about our community’s tremendous potential. I am excited to return in a role that will allow me to contribute to this wonderful University and to the South Florida community.”

Fernández most recently served as Special Assistant to President George W. Bush in the Office of Intergovernmental Affairs. In this role, he served as a liaison between the White House and state and local elected officials.

In his new position, Fernández will be responsible for governmental affairs for UM including serving as the principal liaison between the University and federal, state, and local government offices and legislative bodies.

Prior to joining the White House, Fernández served as Deputy Assistant Secretary for Governmental Affairs at the United States Department of Transportation. He also served as the Southwest Regional Political Director for the Bush-Cheney campaign in 2004, Director of Grassroots Development for the Republican National Committee, press secretary for the RNC and press secretary for Florida Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen. Hispanic Business Magazine named Fernández one of the “100 Most Influential Hispanics” in the United States in 2002.

He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard University, where he specialized in both U.S. Politics and U.S./Latin America Relations. Fernández will reside in Miami.”

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