University of Kentucky College of Arts and Sciences Dean Mark Kornbluh recently announced that Associate Professor Mónica Díaz will serve as director of the International Studies Program in the College of Arts and Sciences, the largest interdisciplinary major in the college.

 

“It is wonderful that Dr. Diaz has agreed to lead the International Studies Program. I know the International Studies majors will benefit greatly from her leadership and that faculty will enjoy working with her to strengthen International Studies at UK,” said Sue Roberts, associate provost for internationalization. “Dr. Diaz is an excellent choice for this important role. She is an interdisciplinary thinker, and a skilled leader who is sure to take International Studies in exciting new directions.” 

Díaz has a joint doctorate in Hispanic literature and Latin American history from Indiana University. She came to UK in 2014 as an associate professor in Hispanic studies, with a secondary appointment in the Department of History. She has served as director of the Latin American, Caribbean and Latino Studies Program since 2014. An active scholar, Díaz is author of “Indigenous Writings from the Convent: Negotiating Ethnic Autonomy in Colonial Mexico,” published by University of Arizona Press in 2010.

 

Díaz is deeply committed to international studies and to working with colleagues in building a strong faculty steering committee composed of individuals who are committed to international studies and willing to serve as ambassadors from the program to departments. She is eager to explore opportunities to develop the program through connections with the International Center and other units on campus, and to continue to build community amongst students in the program.

 

 

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