Patricia Sánchez

Dr. Patricia Sánchez is a Professor and Department Chair in Bicultural-Bilingual Studies at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), recognized for her expertise in immigrant education, Latinx transnationalism, and bilingual teacher preparation. As a first-generation college student from a bilingual Mexican immigrant background, she bridges personal experience with academic rigor. Her 2017 Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award (ROTA) underscores her commitment to pedagogical excellence.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Education - Social and Cultural Studies, UC Berkeley (2004)
• M.A. in Latin American Studies, University of Texas at Austin (1999)
• B.A. in English, Rice University (1993)

Dr. Sánchez’s research focuses on transnational educational practices, immigrant student adaptation, and sociocultural approaches to bilingual learning. Her work in La Clase Mágica initiative demonstrates how technology and community partnerships can empower immigrant families. She has published over 50 works, including a forthcoming book on Mexican migration.

The 15 most recent publications highlight her work on transnational identity construction, digital literacy among immigrant parents, and critical pedagogies for bilingual educators. Keywords span Education, Migration Studies, and Language Acquisition, with subfields like Cross-Border Learning Networks and Heritage Language Speakers.

Scientific Awards:

• Regents’ Outstanding Teaching Award (ROTA), University of Texas System (2017)

Dr. Sánchez’s career combines academic leadership with community engagement. As a former bilingual teacher and admissions officer, she brings practical insights to her research on policies impacting immigrant students. Her work emphasizes participatory action research and cultural authenticity in urban educational settings.