Carlos R. Hernandez

Carlos R. Hernandez is an Assistant Professor of History at Wayne State University with a joint appointment in the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies. His research focuses on Mexican nationalism, tourism development, and labor history, particularly examining the socio-economic impacts of Cancún’s creation. He holds a Ph.D. from Yale University and has held prestigious fellowships at institutions like El Colegio de México.

Education: Ph.D. in History (Yale University), M.A. in History (University of Florida), B.A. in Political Science and English (Texas A&M University).

Research Interests: Hernandez explores Mexican historiography’s role in contemporary political debates, U.S.-Mexico border dynamics, and the intersection of tourism with labor rights. His current book project, *Paradise Lost*, re-examines Cancún’s development through the lens of state privatization and marginalized communities' displacement.

Awards & Grants: Recent recognitions include the Wayne State Humanities Center Faculty Fellowship (2024–25) and the SMU Hope Teaching Award (2022). He has secured grants for archival research in Mexico and pedagogical innovation.

Advising & Outreach: Hernandez mentors under/graduate students achieving notable fellowships (Rhodes, McNair) and internships with diplomatic leaders like Earl Anthony Wayne. He actively promotes Latin American studies accessibility through CLAS.

Labs/Initiatives: Core member of the Center for Latino/a and Latin American Studies, fostering interdisciplinary dialogue on Latin American diaspora and public history.