Scott Fritz

Dr. Scott Fritz is a Professor of History at Western New Mexico University (WNMU), specializing in the business history of Southwestern New Mexico and the intersection of local history with broader U.S. narratives. He is actively involved in aligning WNMU’s curriculum with its Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI) designation through initiatives like the Title V Con Ganas Project. His pedagogical approach emphasizes culturally responsive teaching, incorporating student family histories and regional narratives into coursework.

• Education: PhD in History (not explicitly stated, but inferred from title).

Research focuses on Spanish colonial trade networks, Apache migration patterns, and the role of Hispanic merchants in New Mexico’s early history. He integrates primary sources from WNMU’s Miller Library archives, such as documents related to the Salt of the Earth mining labor movement and Apache reservation histories.

Recent work includes redesigning HIST 1110/1120 courses to emphasize local Indigenous and Hispanic contributions, using essay assignments that connect regional stories to national contexts. Collaborates with university data scientists to measure curriculum impact and student engagement.

Dr. Fritz also mentors students through hands-on projects analyzing historical materials and serves as a faculty advisor for student government and publications.