Alexa Rodriguez

Alexa Rodríguez is an Assistant Professor at the University of Virginia’s School of Education and Human Development, affiliated with the Carter G. Woodson Institute and the Latin American Studies Program. Her research focuses on the intersections of Latin American history, US migration, diasporas, and the role of education in shaping national identity and civic engagement.

Education:

• Ph.D., Teachers College, Columbia University (2021)
• M.S. Ed., Johns Hopkins University (2015)
• B.A., Fordham University (2013)

Research Interests: Dr. Rodríguez explores how public institutions like schools influence nationalist narratives and diasporic communities, particularly in the Dominican Republic. Her forthcoming book, Crafting Dominicanidad, examines early 20th-century educational systems as tools for articulating national identity.

Awards:

• National Academy of Education & Spencer Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow (2024–26)