DR. ROBERT RENTERIA

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From the Barrio to the World: Leadership with Purpose

Dr. Robert Renteria is a United States army airborne veteran and internationally recognized Latino author & civic leader.  Dr. Robert has dedicated his life to transforming lives through education, empowerment and action.  Dr. Renteria uses his personal story, business acumen and leadership skills to address bullying, gangs, violence, drugs, suicides and school dropouts.
Through his best-selling books—From the Barrio to the Board Room, graphic novel Mi Barrio and the activity coloring book Little Barrio—and his academic curriculums, Dr. Robert provides teaching tools that inspire students and adults alike to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles.  His mission is to help people take ownership of their education, instill self-respect while promoting pride, accomplishment and self-esteem.  We are proud to say that his books and curriculums are being taught across America and now in over 25 countries around the world.

A Mission Fueled by Sacrifice and Impact

Dr. Renteria’s work is not just theoretical—it’s personal.  In 2006 a conversation with two young gang members who asked about his luxury car sparked a life-changing realization:  we have children, teenagers and adults alike walking around lost, alone, confused and scared  within a culture of darkness so Dr. Robert decided to do something about it.  Since then, Dr. Renteria has invested several thousands of dollars of his own resources and even sold many of his personal belongings to build and distribute educational tools that work where others have failed.  Both the academic and faith inspired curriculums are donated at NO COST to schools and churches.
Since 2008, his culturally relevant book series and programs have helped bridge the educational gap by bringing critical thinking, conflict resolution, emotional resilience, and real-world life skills back into the classroom.  His objective is to offer a real-time solution to the now issues facing our youth and communities—tools that provides hope and helps teach people how to make a way out of no way.  It is all about prevention over intervention, no more putting band aids on bullet wounds.

“Don’t let where you came from dictate who you are, but let it be part of who you become.”
— Dr. Robert Renteria

Global Recognition. Local Action. Unshakable Commitment.

Dr. Renteria’s efforts have been honored around the world.  He is the recipient of dozens prestigious awards:
  • Two National Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Awards
  • Ambassador for Peace Award The Universal Peace Federation
  • Endorsed by the WBC-World Boxing Council Representing Kid’s in 176 Countries
  • International Honorary Doctorate Degree for Academics and Humanities
  • International Outstanding Humanitarian Award
 
Dr. Robert was also the first Latino globally to receive many of these recognitions.  His influence extends far beyond the classroom—serving as a TEDx Speaker, Youth Ambassador for the WBC-World Boxing Council, and a Latino Voice for educational reform, peace and equity.
Whether speaking on a global stages or mentoring students in underserved communities, Dr. Renteria’s goal for our youth is clear: to lift our kids up so that they too can spread their wings and fly like the angels God intended them to be.  His belief in hard work, determination, and education as the true keys to success that continues to change and save lives every single day.