PRISCILLA RODRIGUEZ: SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, FIFTH THIRD BANK

As Senior Vice President and Team Lead of Fifth Third Bank’s Guardianship and Special Needs Trust Services in Chicago, Priscilla Rodriguez brings more than 25 years of experience to a field where financial expertise meets deep compassion. Her career has been built around protecting the financial interests of minors, disabled children, and disabled adults—clients whose needs go far beyond numbers on a balance sheet. But as hundreds of clients can attest, the role of a guardian goes far beyond managing investments. Rodriguez becomes deeply involved in the lives of her young clients and mentally impaired adults, ensuring that funds are used wisely for housing, transportation, health care, and daily needs—each tailored to the individual’s unique circumstances.

She and her team go a step further by providing financial education to clients, preparing those who will receive their funds at the age of majority (18 years old) to manage their wealth responsibly. “The guardianship court process itself requires guidance,” Rodriguez explains. “We build close relationships with the minor or disabled adult and their families because their needs are specific to their disability, family dynamics, and developmental stage.” Rodriguez emphasizes that financial decisions are often intertwined with strong emotions.

She and the Fifth Third Guardianship team serve as financial advocates for their clients. While there is a fee for their services, many families recognize the immense value the team brings—not just in managing finances, but in supporting the overall wellbeing of the individual. Beyond court filings and tax returns, the team takes a personal interest in each client—often attending milestone events.

Because life can change in an instant due to unexpected death or family tragedy, having a well-prepared estate plan is essential. It’s equally reassuring to know that compassionate, competent help is available when needed most. “Fifth Third Bank is committed to working with our most vulnerable clients,” Rodriguez adds. “Through our dedicated and experienced Guardianship Estates and Special Needs Trusts team, we’ve earned the trust not only of attorneys and the probate court system, but—most importantly—of the families who rely on us during some of their most difficult times.”

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