Robert Diaz was born April 23, 1953 in Pasadena, California. Diaz was raised in San Gabriel; he attended San Gabriel High School, a proud matador. Shortly after high school he enlisted in the Air Force. After serving a total of four years, Diaz went to work for the City of San Gabriel for the following 15 to 16 years. He started his own construction business after realizing he was unable to do certain things, as he grew  older Diaz decided to return to Rio Hondo College in 2010. Diaz obtained two degrees in Administration of Justice and Chicano Studies as well.

He began working for the Learning Assistance Center (LAC) under Federal Work Study and gradually worked himself to a tutoring position and now working for the college as an instructional assistant. His job entails facilitating the actions of the lab, ensuring that all students get the quiet space they were promised, make appointments and teaming tutors with students who best excel at the subject help is needed.

The Learning Center, located in the Learning Resource Center (LRC) offers quiet study space, study rooms, pre-printing of essays and tutoring in English, math, psychology, physiology, administration of justice, political science, Chicano studies and biology. Diaz’ new position helps with creating new workshops that would help students succeed. Some of the workshops he has to offer will be able to help students with time management, gain better study skills, note taking and other fundamental life skills.

He was president of the Veterans Club on campus for many years, Diaz always wears his dogtags to express where he stands on veteran causes. In fact, it was his idea for the flag tribute in the lower quad. When he was a student he used to seek regular help from the learning center, he’s proud of his position and the opportunity to pay forward all the help he received. Diaz is exceptionally passionate of his work in the LAC.

He currently resides in Rosemead, California with his wife and two children.

Diaz encourages students to visit the lab for whatever they need, he is ready to answer any questions. All students benefit from everything the lab has to offer but registration to the no-credit course is needed. The LAC is a “marketplace of knowledge” according to Diaz, “I strongly encourage students to stop by even if it’s just to say hello.”