Glenn Martinez

Glenn Martinez, Ph.D. is Dean of the College of Liberal and Fine Arts and Professor of Spanish, Bicultural-Bilingual Studies and Public Health at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). He also holds the Stumberg Endowed Chair and is recognized for his interdisciplinary work integrating applied linguistics, public health, and medical humanities to address Latino health disparities.

Education:

• MPH in Border Health, Texas A&M University, 2011
• Ph.D. in Hispanic Linguistics, University of Massachusetts at Amherst, 2000
• M.A. in Spanish Linguistics, University of Houston, 1996
• B.A. in Spanish, University of Texas Pan American, 1994

Research Interests:

Dr. Martinez's research centers on the intersection of language, health, and equity. He investigates how Spanish in healthcare settings affects patient outcomes, the role of heritage language education in professional training, and the development of language policy to reduce health disparities among Latino populations. His work also explores medical humanities as a framework for culturally responsive care.

Scientific Awards:

• Stumberg Distinguished University Chair (2021)
• Alumni Distinguished Award for Outstanding Teaching (2019)
• Latino of the Year (2015)
• Examples of Excelencia Finalist (2011)
• Provost’s Award for International Studies (2006)
• Distinguished Achievement in Humanities Educational Outreach Award (2004)
• Kenyon Dissertation Fellowship (1999–2000)

Grants and Funding:

Dr. Martinez has served as Principal Investigator or Co-PI on over $5 million in extramural funding from agencies including the NIH, U.S. Department of Education, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI), and Ohio Humanities. His grants focus on health equity, language access, and community-engaged research with Latino populations, including studies on diabetes management, HPV vaccination, and COVID-19 health communication.

Labs and Teams:

While not explicitly named, Dr. Martinez leads collaborative initiatives within COLFA and partners with community organizations in San Antonio and South Texas. His work bridges academic research, healthcare delivery, and community advocacy to improve outcomes for Spanish-speaking populations.