Andrea Rodriguez
Andrea joined Church of the Ascension as Receptionist/Ministry Coordinator in 2025. She is a native of the rolling hills of southeast Ohio, where she was raised with a strong Christian background. She graduated from Cincinnati Bible College in 2001, where she majored in Deaf Studies. She and her husband, Rafael, met in Cincinnati, and they married in 2001 and began their journey together with a shared heart for ministry and service. After college, Andrea worked for an Easter Seals organization supporting individuals with disabilities. They moved to Sheffield, England, in 2003, where Andrea found meaningful work in public schools, supporting students with behavioral needs. During their time in England, they welcomed their eldest daughter, Janelle, in 2005.
Andrea and her husband returned to the States shortly after Janelle’s birth, settling in Knoxville, Tennessee. In 2010, they adopted their younger daughter, Josephina. Andrea worked for Johnson University for sixteen years, first as an Administrative Assistant and later as Assistant Registrar. She quickly became known not just for her professionalism but also for her warmth, encouragement, and care for students and colleagues.
Andrea is known for her genuine hospitality and love for community. She loves welcoming people into her kitchen, often baking bread with a sourdough starter gifted by a student, and sharing good food and conversation with friends and family. She finds joy in her garden—especially pulling weeds, tending to her beloved dahlias, and other plants—and laughs about her struggle to keep indoor plants alive. Andrea also treasures time with her two Shih Tzus, Holly and Mischa.
Andrea Rodriguez, Receptionist/Ministry Coordinator