Judith Martinez

Dr. Judith Martinez is an Associate Professor in the Department of Languages, Cultures and Religions at Missouri State University, located within the Reynolds College of Arts, Social Sciences and Humanities. She holds a PhD in Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies from the University of Arkansas and has extensive experience in Spanish and French language education. Her research focuses on forced migration, neoliberal violence along the Mexican border, and Latinx literature, with notable publications in critical literary journals such as Ciberletras and Revista de Equidad y Género.

Education:

• PhD, Comparative Literature and Cultural Studies (2017), University of Arkansas
• MAT, French and Spanish as a Second Language (2005), Missouri State University
• BS in Law and Social Sciences (2002), Universidad Autónoma de Nuevo León
• BS in Secondary Education (2002), Escuela Normal Superior del Estado de Nuevo León

Research Interests: Her work bridges critical theory with contemporary social issues, particularly examining how literary narratives reflect political and social fractures in Mexico. She explores themes of displacement, gender equity, and the intersection of education with cultural identity. Her recent studies analyze literary responses to post-conflict scenarios and neoliberal state policies.

Awards: Recipient of the Curtis T. Lawrence Master Teaching Award and multiple grants supporting educational initiatives for Hispanic learners. Notable recognitions include the Latina Leadership Award and repeated Student Athlete recognitions for her impactful teaching.

Teaching & Grants: Supervises student teaching programs and has pioneered heritage Spanish language curricula. Led initiatives like the Early College program for Missouri State University, integrating community outreach with academic recruitment strategies.

Labs/Teams: Active in the College of Education's Hispanic Initiative and collaborates with the CODERS Project for interdisciplinary research.