McAllen Chamber of Commerce will honor Roel “Roy” Rodriguez and Natasha A. Del Barrio at the 69th Annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards on Nov. 7 at the McAllen Convention Center.
Since 1955, the McAllen Chamber has honored two exceptional individuals each year, recognizing their outstanding contributions and commitment to the City of McAllen.
Roel “Roy” Rodriguez
With more than 35 years of public service, Rodriguez holds an extensive career that spans key leadership positions throughout the State of Texas. Rodriguez has served as McAllen’s city manager and assistant city manager, as well as general manager of the McAllen Public Utility. His public service career also includes positions as city engineer, assistant city manager and city manager in Harlingen, and city engineer in Weslaco.
Rodriguez holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Texas A&I University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Texas – Pan American. He currently serves on the Texas Municipal Retirement System board of trustees, a position that he was honorably appointed by Gov. Greg Abbott.
Beyond his professional responsibilities, Rodriguez actively contributes to multiple advisory councils, including the Public Administration Advisory Council at South Texas College and the Dean’s Advisory Board at Texas A&M University Kingsville College of Engineering. He is also a distinguished member of the American Society of Civil Engineers and the Texas City Management Association, where he was named Administrator of the Year in 2017. Currently serving as TCMA Region President, Rodriguez was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award from TCMA in 2023.
Natasha A. del Barrio
With a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Marketing and an MBA from the University of Texas-Pan American, del Barrio began her career at Bert Ogden Auto Group in 1999. She expanded her experience in the financial sector, taking on influential roles at Citi Group and JP Morgan Chase, where she managed business portfolios for over 140 automotive dealers across Texas, generating more than $14 million in monthly revenue.
Returning to Bert Ogden in 2012, del Barrio quickly rose through the ranks, becoming CEO in 2017. Today, she oversees 24 dealerships and is recognized for her strategic leadership and commitment to operational excellence.
del Barrio’s contributions to the automotive retail industry have garnered national attention, earning her recognition in Automotive News and F&I Showroom, as well as the 40 Under 40 Award in 2019 for her industry-shaping impact.
In addition to her professional achievements, del Barrio has served on the boards of Easter Seals, the UTRGV Alumni Advisory Council and the Texas Automobile Dealers Association. In 2022, Natasha was named South Texas Woman of the Year by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, raising over $840,000 during a 10-week fundraising campaign.
The Event
The McAllen Chamber of Commerce’s 69th Annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards take place from 6:30-10 p.m. on Nov. 7.
For reserved tables, sponsorships or additional inquiries, contact Vice President of Membership Services Blanca Cardenas at 956-682-2871 or bcardenas@mcallenchamber.com.