Joel S Franks

Joel S Franks is a Lecturer in Humanities and Sociology & Interdisciplinary Social Sciences at San José State University. He has taught at SJSU since 1988 and also held teaching positions at De Anza College, San Jose City College, Santa Clara University, CSU East Bay, UC Irvine, and UC Santa Cruz. He holds a Doctor of Philosophy from the University of California, Irvine, and a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in History from California State University, San Jose.

His research focuses on Asian Pacific American studies, sports history, cultural studies, and American cultural diversity. Notable publications include works on baseball's role in cultural integration, Hawaiian sporting experiences, and Asian Pacific American history. He teaches courses like American Studies 1B and AAS 33A, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to U.S. history and culture.

Franks has contributed extensively to the field through his authored books and scholarly activities. His teaching spans multiple institutions, reflecting his commitment to education and cultural understanding.