Claudia Tiffany Rodriguez is a proud Texas native from Fort Worth, deeply dedicated to sharing the beauty and culture of Ballet Folklórico. As a student at Texas Christian University, she achieved the unique accomplishment of creating her own major in Interdisciplinary Inquiry with an emphasis on Ballet Folklórico, along with a minor in Art Leadership and Entrepreneurship. This year, Claudia founded and now directs TCU's first-ever Ballet Folklórico group, a milestone that has allowed her to share the art and beauty of this traditional Mexican dance form with diverse audiences.
This year, Claudia was also honored with the TCU Mission Statement Scholarship, a prestigious award that recognizes students who embody the university’s mission of leadership, service, and academic excellence. The scholarship has supported her ongoing efforts to promote and preserve cultural heritage through her academic and community work.
Beyond her academic endeavors, Claudia serves as an ambassador for Visita Fort Worth and is an active member of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (FWHCC). Her mission is to share the art and beauty of folklore, inspire others through her passion for dance and celebrate the richness of her cultural heritage.
What do you love about living and working in Fort Worth?
I love Fort Worth for its vibrant and diverse community. The city’s rich cultural heritage, deeply intertwined with Hispanic traditions, makes it a special place to live and work. The strong sense of community here constantly inspires me, as do the many opportunities that come with living and working in Fort Worth. I also love the wide array of events and festivities the city hosts, such as the Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo, parades, Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, Día de Muertos, Parade of Lights, and the Christmas Tree Lighting. These events bring the community together and beautifully showcase the rich culture that makes Fort Worth unique, and I love that I get to be a part of it.
How do you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time for reflection and celebration. I enjoy participating in
cultural events, performances, and community gatherings that highlight our traditions and contributions. It's also a time for me to share the art of Ballet Folklórico with a wider audience, celebrating our heritage through dance.
Where do you take family/friends visiting Fort Worth?
When family and friends visit, I love taking them to the Fort Worth Stockyards to experience a blend of Texan and Hispanic culture. I also enjoy showing them the beautiful murals in the Near Southside, which showcase the artistry and history of our community. The Fort Worth Botanic Garden and the beautiful TCU campus are also favorite spots to share, offering a peaceful and scenic experience. A visit to Sundance Square is a must for shopping and dining, with plenty of local flavors and live music to enjoy.
How has Fort Worth's Hispanic culture and heritage impacted you or your business?
Fort Worth's Hispanic culture has been a cornerstone of my identity and work. The city's rich heritage has fueled my passion for Ballet Folklorico, allowing me to share this beautiful art form with others. It has also provided a supportive community where I can grow and collaborate with like-minded individuals who are equally passionate about preserving our culture.
What advice would you give to Hispanic entrepreneurs and professionals who are just starting out?
I want to encourage other entrepreneurs and professionals who are just starting out
to never give up, especially when faced with doubt from others. There were times when people told me I wouldn’t succeed in the performing arts, but I refused to let their words define my path. Instead, I used their doubts as motivation to prove them wrong. Today, I’ve created my own major at TCU and founded the university’s first-ever Ballet Folklórico group. These accomplishments are a testament to the power of perseverance and staying true to your passion.