Rodolfo Mendoza-Denton

Rodolfo Mendoza-Denton is the Richard and Rhoda Goldman Distinguished Professor of Psychology at the University of California, Berkeley, and serves as Associate Executive Dean for Diversity and Inclusion in the College of Letters and Science. He holds a Ph.D. in Social/Personality Psychology from Columbia University (1999) and a B.A. from Yale University. His research focuses on stereotyping, prejudice, intergroup relations, and their impacts on educational outcomes. He has received notable awards, including the 2015 Chancellor’s Award and the 2018 University-wide Distinguished Teaching Award. Mendoza-Denton’s work emphasizes reducing racial disparities through mentorship and fostering inclusive environments.

His research interests include aggression, culture, group processes, neuroscience, and social cognition. He leads the Relationships and Social Cognition Lab, exploring how social dynamics influence psychological well-being. Teaching responsibilities include courses like 'Stigma and Prejudice' and 'Teaching Psychology.' His outreach efforts include media engagement and mentorship programs for underrepresented students.

Mendoza-Denton’s research highlights strategies to improve interracial interactions, such as mutual self-disclosure to reduce negative affect. His recent studies address STEM equity and the role of mentorship in academic success. He has authored influential articles on mentorship outcomes and structural barriers in education.