Dr. Alberto Rodriguez is a distinguished scholar and educator in the field of Mexican American and Borderlands history. He currently serves as Professor of History and Director of the Mexican American Studies Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville.
Dr. Rodriguez earned his Ph.D. in History from the University of Houston in 2011, specializing in 20th Century American History with a minor in Women's Studies. He also holds a Master's degree and a Bachelor's degree in History from the University of Texas-Pan American
As a former migrant farmworker and first-generation college student, Dr. Rodriguez brings a unique perspective to his academic work, emphasizing South Texas, the Borderlands, and Mexico in his teaching and research. His expertise spans various areas, including Latina/o History, Mexican American History, Chicana/o History, Texas History, and African American History.
Dr. Rodriguez has made significant contributions to the field through his publications and research. He is the author of "Mexican American Baseball in the Alamo Region" (2015) and has published articles in notable journals such as The Journal of the West and the Journal of Texas Music History. His ongoing projects include "Urban Borderlands: Anglos, Mexicans, and African Americans in South Texas 1929-1964".
In recognition of his outstanding work, Dr. Rodriguez was awarded the Captain Alonso de León Steel Medal for Historical Merit in its International category for 2023 by the Nuevoleonesa Society of History, Geography and Statistics (SNHGE). This prestigious award acknowledges his significant contributions to the study and dissemination of history beyond the borders of Mexico.
Dr. Rodriguez plays a crucial role in shaping the field of Tejano history as the Co-editor of the "New Directions in Tejano History Series" with the University of Oklahoma Press. He previously served as the Managing Editor of the Journal of South Texas History at Texas A&M University-Kingsville from Fall 2013 to Spring 2022.
Under his leadership, the Mexican American Studies Institute at Texas A&M University-Kingsville was established in 2022 to honor and showcase the legacy of Mexican Americans in the Coastal Bend, South Texas, and the Borderlands areas. The institute serves as a hub for research, education, and community engagement, providing a space for students, faculty, and the broader community to explore and celebrate Mexican American culture and history.
Texas A&M University-Kingsville
700 University Blvd. MSC 165
Kingsville, Texas 78363-8202
Rhode Hall 331
voice: 361-593-2467
email: alberto.rodriguez2@tamuk.edu
