Leda M. Barnett

Leda M. Barnett serves as Professor of Political Science and Honors Program Director at Our Lady of the Lake University, actively engaged in research and teaching centered on amplifying marginalized voices through political institutions and environmental justice frameworks.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD in Political Science from the University of Alabama
• Master of Arts in Political Science from Mississippi State University
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with minor in Foreign Languages (Spanish and Russian) from Mississippi State University

Dr. Barnett's research examines comparative environmental justice, voting rights, and political participation with specific focus on how institutions can uphold justice principles. Her current project investigates correlations between immigrant detention center locations and environmental hazard concentrations, reflecting her commitment to intersectional justice analysis.

Professional recognition includes:

• Excellence in Service-Learning Faculty Award (2019)
• Francine Fleming Endowed Award for Teaching Excellence (2017)
• Excellence in Service-Learning Faculty Award (2015)

She maintains active service through Bexar County Voter Registrar duties since 2008 and holds Climate Reality Leadership certification, demonstrating sustained commitment to civic engagement and social justice advocacy.