Chattanooga Football Club is proud to spotlight Dylan Rivera, Director of Policy Planning and Implementation for the City of Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Football Club is proud to highlight Dylan Rivera, Director of Policy Planning and Implementation in Mayor Tim Kelly’s administration for the City of Chattanooga, as part of our Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Rivera's appointment to the position marked an historic milestone, making him the first-ever Latino to serve in the Chattanooga Mayor’s Office.
For Rivera, this achievement is more than a personal milestone. It represents the dreams and sacrifices of those who came before him.
"Representing my family, community, and culture as the first-ever Latino to serve in the Chattanooga Mayor's Office is an incredible honor and responsibility I deeply respect. I stand on the shoulders of generations before me who worked hard and made immense sacrifices to give me the opportunities I have today. Knowing that I'm making them proud with the work I do today is the privilege of a lifetime."
His role, he emphasizes, is not just about individual success but about creating opportunities for others.
"I hope the younger generations of Latinos in our area can see themselves in me and aim even higher!"
Rivera is determined to be a living example of what is possible, hoping to inspire more young Latinos to pursue leadership positions and make their mark in Chattanooga.
A cultural approach to leadership and vision for Chattanooga
Rivera’s Hispanic heritage deeply influences his leadership style and policy planning.
"As Latinos, so much of our lives revolve around personal relationships—genuinely getting to know our neighbors and building community around supporting one another."
Since stepping into his role, Rivera has led several key initiatives that empower minority communities, including Builder's Blueprint: Turning Subs Into Primes, the Every Child Initiative, and fostering relationships with Latino consulates.
"Each program aims to support minority business owners, provide students with opportunities, and meet the needs of Latino families."
These initiatives are creating lasting pathways for equity, ensuring Chattanooga grows as a city where everyone can thrive.
Soccer as a unifier in Chattanooga
Rivera sees Chattanooga Football Club as a powerful force in bringing people together.
"CFC is Chattanooga's team—built by the people, for the people—all people," he says. Soccer has a unique ability to unite diverse backgrounds, and CFC creates a welcoming space where fans of all ages and cultures connect.
"From youth programs to community events, CFC’s outreach builds strong connections across the city, creating a sense of togetherness and shared identity."
As Chattanooga’s Hispanic population grows, Rivera views soccer as a vital tool for fostering unity.
"Sports transcend cultural and language barriers, bringing people together in ways few other activities can."
For the Latino community, soccer offers a familiar way to engage and connect. Rivera believes that supporting sports initiatives that embrace diversity will help create a stronger, more inclusive Chattanooga.
Chattanooga Football Club is proud to honor leaders like Rivera, whose work not only shapes the future of our city but also reflects the power of community, culture and inclusivity.
