Jennifer Bickham Mendez

Jennifer Bickham Mendez is a Professor and Chair of Sociology at William & Mary, where she has worked for nearly 25 years. Her research focuses on marginalized groups, including immigrant mothers, English-learner students, and racial justice organizations in Williamsburg, Virginia. She specializes in Latino/a migration, gender and globalization, citizenship, border studies, labor rights, and social movements.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of California, Davis
• M.A., University of California, Davis
• B.A., Oberlin College

Research Interests: Dr. Mendez examines how marginalized communities navigate exclusionary global and local forces. Her work highlights issues of belonging, justice, and inclusion, particularly in 'new destination' communities in the American South. She employs feminist and transnational frameworks to analyze labor dynamics, migration policies, and social movements.

Key Themes in Publications: Her articles and books explore topics such as Latinx community-building, school integration challenges, gendered impacts of neoliberal policies, and the political economy of border enforcement. Recent work emphasizes racial justice and equity in education and urban planning.

Awards:

• Inaugural Excellence in Teaching Award (ASA, 2018)
• Plumeri Faculty Excellence Award (2010)
• Outstanding Article Award for 'Enforcing Borders in the Nuevo South' (2010)
• Community Service Recognition (2004)

Engagement: As department chair, she has championed diversity initiatives and community partnerships. Her work often bridges academic research with grassroots activism, particularly in Williamsburg's Latino communities.