Eréndira Rueda

Eréndira Rueda is an Associate Professor of Sociology and Director of Latin American and Latinx Studies at Vassar College. She also teaches in the Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS) and American Studies (AMST) multidisciplinary programs. She has been affiliated with Vassar since 2007 and holds a BA from the University of California-San Diego, as well as an MA/PhD from the University of California-Berkeley.

Her research focuses on the sociology of education, immigration, and childhoods, with additional interests in gender and racial inequality. She co-edited the 2023 book Academic Belonging in Higher Education, emphasizing student inclusion and connection. Her work explores classroom dynamics, youth development, and the intersection of cultural identity with educational systems.

Her recent publications and contributions highlight trends in participatory action research, DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging) initiatives, and the evolving sociological study of education. She has collaborated on projects addressing gender roles in schools and the long-term reflections on educational equity.

• Scientific Awards:
• UC ACCORD Fellow
• Spencer Foundation Fellow
• AALAC Award (2023) for 'Beyond Inclusion and Belonging: Telling Future Histories of Classrooms from 2050'

In advising and grants, Rueda leads the Transitions Research Team, a participatory action initiative involving first-generation, low-income (FLI) Vassar students. This team investigates issues of inclusion and belonging on campus. Her collaborative grant with Candice Lowe-Swift addresses future-oriented educational equity through interdisciplinary workshops.

Rueda is affiliated with the Department of Sociology and directs the Latin American and Latinx Studies program. She also contributes to the American Studies program. Her research and teaching activities are anchored in Blodgett Hall, where she is reachable via email errueda@vassar.edu or by phone at (845) 437-5511.