ABOUT
Meet Rita
Syracuse Common Councilor At Large
Meet Rita
Rita Paniagua is a passionate and dedicated politician who has been serving the Syracuse community for over a decade. Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Rita has called Syracuse her home since 2003. With over 40 years of experience in Business Administration, Fundraising, and Public Relations, she has been an instrumental figure in the community.
Rita's work in the field of performing arts, radio, and special events production has given her a unique perspective on community building and engagement. Since her arrival, she has been committed to serving the Syracuse community at all levels.
Committed to Syracuse
Rita's Involvement
Rita previously held the role of Executive Director of the Spanish Action League of Onondaga County from 2005-2015. This opened doors for her to work with the Central New York Region and the State of New York through the NYS Puerto Rico/Hispanic Taskforce. In 2016, Rita was elected as a Commissioner of Education for the Syracuse City School District, where she served with distinction. In 2019, she was elected to serve in the Syracuse City Council At-Large position.
Currently, Rita is leading economic development initiatives for Jubilee Homes of Syracuse and has started her own consulting business called "Cross Cultural Strategies." Her extensive community involvement includes serving on the CNY Arts Board of Directors as President and the Interfaith Works Board of Directors as Chair of Government Relations.
Rita is a passionate advocate for education and community outreach. She serves on the steering committee and is Co-chair of Education and Community Outreach for the City/County LEAD strategic plan. She also sits on the Alliance of Economic Inclusion, allocations, and programs review committees, the Good Cause Eviction Initiative, and the Latino Mentoring Program at Fowler High School. Additionally, Rita provides support to organizers of special events, including Corazones Unidos, Puerto Rico Festival, and Syracuse Bakers Expo.
RE-ELECT RITA PANIAGUA
Rita is a devoted public servant
She is a leader in the Syracuse community and a tireless advocate for her constituents. Her diverse experience and unwavering dedication to the people of Syracuse make her an invaluable asset to the city's political landscape. Rita has been a strong advocate for Syracuse residents during her four year tenure on the Syracuse Common Council. Her record is one of greater transparency, speaking out about what is right, and being a champion for increased accountability. Syracuse needs Rita for another four years!