Do you know who represents you on Staff Council? Many staff members have told us they’d like to learn more about their representatives. The Councilor Spotlight series is intended to introduce new Council members and how they serve the University on Staff Council. Why would you want to contact your representative? They can elevate your concerns or ideas, help you find information, and connect you with resources across campus. Click here to find your representative.
Staff Council Spotlight: Breno Silvestrini Rodrigues
Function Representative, Administration; Audit Compliance Legal & Risk
Meet Breno Silvestrini Rodrigues, Compliance Specialist and Investigator in the Discrimination Investigation Unit of the Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCRC), who brings a strong commitment to shared governance, compassion, and community engagement to his role on Staff Council.
Breno has been part of the University of Iowa community since May 2023. In his role with OCRC, he serves employees, students, faculty, and members of the UI community who may have experienced protected-class discrimination or harassment. This year, he serves on Staff Council as a Function Representative for Administration; Audit, Compliance, Legal & Risk, contributing his expertise as a member of both the Bylaws Committee and the Committee on Committees.
For Breno, serving on Staff Council is an opportunity to deepen his understanding of the University’s structure and operations, actively contribute to shared governance, and build meaningful connections across campus. He is also especially interested in giving back through volunteering in events and initiatives that support the broader university community.
Outside of work, Breno enjoys spending time with his little girls and cherishing moments with family and friends. His idea of a perfect day includes good company and a Brazilian barbecue. On fall Saturdays, you might find him anywhere around Kinnick Stadium soaking up the energy of game day.
If there were a song that played every time Breno walked into a room, it would be a mix of Hall of Fame by The Script ft. will.i.am, Rise Up by Andra Day, Beautiful Day by U2, and You Gotta Be by Des’ree — anthems of resilience, empowerment, and optimism that reflect his belief in perseverance and compassion.
If Breno could have any superhero power, it would be mind reading — not in a manipulative way, but as a means to truly understand what others are feeling and thinking. He believes this ability could help break down misunderstandings, build stronger connections, and create more compassion in the world.
Learn more about our other new Councilors and the latest news for University staff in our newsletter articles here.