Robert Fernandez

2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Headshot of Robert Fernandez, 2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Executive Director, Científico Latino

New York, New York

Robert “Rob” Fernandez is the co-founder and executive director of Científico Latino, a nonprofit that promotes inclusivity in STEM and increases the number of scientists from minority backgrounds through mentorship, open-access resources, and professional development opportunities. As a scientist turned entrepreneur, Rob catalyzed an idea into an organization that helps historically disadvantaged students matriculate into graduate school in the sciences. Científico Latino’s Graduate School Mentorship Initiative provides resources, mentorship, and financial support for graduate school applicants in the sciences and has helped 450 students across the United States and globally get accepted to graduate school.

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Meet the 2024-2025 United States Leaders

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Leaders

For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.

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  • The Center
  • Building the Center
Future water garden to honor Ann Dunham, be graced by Maya Lin sculpture

Join other Obama alumni in coming together to support the naming of the Water Garden at the Obama Presidential Center in honor of the life and legacy of President Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham—as a gift for the President’s 61st birthday.

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  • Defending Democracy
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Copenhagen Democracy Summit
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  • Barack Obama
Watch: President Obama shares the vision of the presidential center

Watch President Obama share his vision for the Obama Presidential Center during a surprise visit with supporters and stakeholders—a vision for a public space that will honor history, help revitalize the South Side, and connect people throughout the communi

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