Robert G. Rodriguez

Robert G. Rodriguez is a Professor of Political Science in the College of Humanities, Social Sciences and Arts at East Texas A&M University (formerly Texas A&M University-Commerce). He has served the institution since 2010, progressing from Assistant Professor to Associate Professor and ultimately to his current rank, while also holding the position of Interim Associate Dean from 2023 to 2024. A first-generation college graduate with Argentine immigrant parents, Dr. Rodriguez champions student success through personalized attention and leverages the university's proximity to Dallas for experiential learning opportunities.

His educational background includes:

• B.A. in Political Science, University of California-Irvine (1994)
• M.A. in Political Science, University of Kansas (1996)
• Ph.D. in Political Science, University of Kansas (2005)

Dr. Rodriguez's research spans Latin American Politics, Eastern European Politics, and Politics and Sports, examining political phenomena through unconventional lenses like sports figures and historical events. His work bridges academic theory with real-world applications, particularly in minority voting behavior, international relations, and sports policy. He actively publishes in interdisciplinary journals and contributes book chapters exploring cultural-political intersections.

His publication trajectory reveals consistent thematic threads: analyzing politics through sports (evident in boxing and tennis studies), regional political dynamics (especially Latino voting patterns and U.S.-Ukraine relations), and historical justice issues. This multidisciplinary approach positions his work at the intersection of political science, sports history, and ethnic studies.

Dr. Rodriguez has received extensive recognition including:

• TAMUC Office of Latinx Engagement & Outreach Leadership Award (2022)
• Multiple All-Texas A&M System Teaching Excellence Awards (2011, 2012)
• TAMUC Distinguished Global Fellow Award (2017)
• Office of Hispanic Outreach Faculty of the Year Award (2011)
• Latino Staff and Faculty Association Leadership Certificate (2020)

An innovative educator, Dr. Rodriguez designs distinctive courses like 'The Politics of Muhammad Ali' and 'Nazis in South America', incorporating guest authors and immersive learning experiences. His teaching philosophy emphasizes student-professor interaction in small-class settings, reflecting his belief that personalized mentorship drives academic success. He actively participates in faculty governance and student outreach initiatives focused on underrepresented communities.