Isabel Martinez

Dr. Isabel Martinez is an Associate Professor and Ellen Riojas Clark PhD Endowed Chair in the Department of Bicultural-Bilingual Studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio, affiliated with the College of Education and Human Development and the Interdisciplinary School for Engagement in the College of Liberal and Fine Arts. Her work bridges sociology, education, and digital humanities to examine immigrant youth experiences.

• Education: Ph.D. in Sociology and Education, Teachers College, Columbia University (2011)
• M.A. in Educational Foundations, Policy and Practice, University of Colorado at Boulder (2002)
• B.A. in Sociology, Rice University (1996)

Her research examines international youth migration, focusing on unaccompanied Latinx minors, transnational survival strategies, and digital testimonio projects. She advocates for Hispanic Serving Institutions and explores Latinx performance studies in education and cultural contexts.

Recent publications highlight her leadership in digital humanities and ethnographic migration studies. Her work spans Central American diasporas, indigenous youth, and Latinx cultural narratives.

• Scientific Awards:
• Faculty Leadership in Belonging Award (2025)
• ReDI Research Leadership Initiative (2025)
• Massachusetts Humanities Grant (2024-2025)
• LATINOS for Education Board Fellow (2023-2024)
• Kwando Kinshasa Mentoring Award (2020)

She leads the decade-long U-LAMP internship program for Latinx youth and mentors extensively through national initiatives. Current projects include documenting the history of New York City Latinx comedy.