George J. Sanchez

George J. Sanchez is a Professor of American Studies & Ethnicity and History at the University of Southern California (USC). He holds leadership roles including Director of the Center for Diversity and Democracy and former Vice Dean for Diversity and Strategic Initiatives. His research focuses on race, ethnicity, labor, and immigration in historical and contemporary contexts, with a strong emphasis on multiracial communities in Los Angeles, particularly Boyle Heights.

Sanchez earned his Ph.D. in History from Stanford University (1989), following degrees from Harvard University. His publications include seminal works such as *Becoming Mexican American* (1993) and *Bridging Borders* (2011). He has received major grants, including a $3.6M award from the Irvine Foundation for diversity initiatives at USC.

His research explores intersections of Mexican-American, Japanese-American, and Jewish histories in Boyle Heights, as well as broader themes in urban culture and civic engagement. Awards include the Constance Rourke Prize for best article in *American Quarterly* and recognition for mentoring underrepresented scholars. He currently chairs the Mellon Mays Program and the Contemporary Latino and Latin American Studies major at USC.