Zachary Doleshal

Zachary Doleshal is a Clinical Assistant Professor of History at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), affiliated with the College of Humanities and Social Sciences and the Department of History. His research focuses on how industrial capitalism transformed humanity, including studies of national identity, disciplinary systems, consumerism, and globalization through the lens of the Bat’a company’s transnational operations. He actively coordinates the Academic Community Engagement program for the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, advises the Bearkat History Club, and develops study abroad programs focused on World War I and Austria-Hungary.

• Education: Ph.D. in History (UT Austin, 2012), M.A. in Russian, East European and Eurasian Studies (UT Austin, 2005), B.A. in History and Creative Writing (UNM, 2000)

His teaching philosophy emphasizes dynamic, collaborative learning experiences, including role-playing historical scenarios and fieldwork in public history projects. Recent courses include Public History, Holocaust Historiography, and Globalization Studies. He has curated exhibits like Segregated: Walker County in Black and White and contributed to digital projects such as The Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1867 on East Texas History.

His research trends reflect a focus on transnational corporations challenging nation-state frameworks, gender dynamics in industrial contexts, and the interplay between corporate identity and modernity. Current work includes a monograph on Bat’a’s globalization under contract with University of Toronto Press.

• Professional Engagement: Media commentator on historical topics, internship coordinator for history students, and advocate for community-based learning initiatives.
• Labs/Teams: Leading development of a WWI-focused study abroad program and coordinating academic partnerships with regional historical institutions.