Adrián A. Pedroza, MBA, is the National Executive Director of AP-OD (also known as Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors), the nation’s first evidence-based, comprehensive parent leadership and advocacy program originally designed by and for Latino families with children ages 0–5.
Through his leadership, AP-OD has expanded its reach to thousands of families in diverse communities across the United States, investing in parents to serve as leaders, educators and advocates in their children’s lives and the greater community.
Pedroza brings more than two decades of experience advancing equitable, community-driven systems of early education and opportunity. He previously served as a Commissioner of the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for Hispanics, where he championed family engagement and policy reform. Earlier in his career, he led initiatives at the Partnership for Community Action in New Mexico, building a statewide movement focused on early education, economic mobility and civic participation.
Pedroza’s work has earned recognition from organizations such as the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Network and Ascend at the Aspen Institute, reflecting his longstanding commitment to equity, leadership development, and the belief that parents are the cornerstone of thriving communities.
“Parents are children’s first teachers and advocates, and when families have the tools and respect they deserve, whole communities thrive,” Pedroza said. “I’m honored to help advance ZERO TO THREE’s commitment to elevating the leadership of families, especially those historically left out of decision-making, to shape the systems that serve their children.”
