About LALS
The Latin American and Latino Studies: An Introduction
The Latin American and Latino Studies Program at Wake Forest University was established to encourage the study of Latin American and Latino history, culture, geography, economics and politics. By sponsoring a wide variety of academic programs, conferences, lectures and events, the Program hopes to facilitate dialogue and debate over the most important issues that confront the region as well as increase cultural diversity and awareness amongst the Wake Forest and local communities. Working with students and a distinguished interdisciplinary faculty, the Program is deeply committed to improving and advancing the understanding of and appreciation for Latin America and its people.
Want to learn more about the program in Latin American and Latino Studies at Wake Forest?
Dr. Victor Hernández-Huerta
Assistant Professor of Politics and International Affairs & Director of the Latin American and Latino Studies Program
Email: hernanv@wfu.edu
The Latin American and Latino Studies Program offers undergraduate students at Wake Forest the opportunity to undertake a multidisciplinary study of the region. Working with faculty from across all departments within the Undergraduate College of Arts and Sciences, the Program allows students to enroll in various courses designed to provide them with an overview as to the history, politics, culture, geography and economics of Latin America and the Caribbean. Students who take fifteen or more credit hours from the Program’s curriculum are eligible for the minor in Latin American and Latino Studies. Students from every major are welcome and encouraged to pursue the minor or enroll in courses offered by the Program. Classes are currently offered in the fields of Anthropology, Biology, English, History, Economics, Humanities, International Development, Music, Political Science, Spanish, Portuguese and Women’s and Gender Studies. The Program also advises students who wish to pursue a higher level of education in Latin American Studies. Through a cooperative program with Georgetown University, students may begin working towards a Master’s degree in Latin American Studies during their undergraduate years.
The Latin American and Latino Studies Program encourages and supports faculty and students who wish to conduct research related to Latin America. Faculty and students are constantly engaged in research on wide range of topics. Additionally, the Program works closely with university officials to develop opportunities for students and faculty to travel to and study in the region.
The Latin American and Latino Studies Program works with organizations within the university and the local community to develop programs, conferences and events that engage students and faculty in discussions over the most important issues that confront Latin America and its people today. The Program has brought many world-renowned scholars of and experts on Latin America to the Wake Forest campus. It is also very committed to increasing the diversity and cultural awareness among the Wake Forest student body.
The Latin American and Latino Studies Program is directed by Dr. Ana-Maria Wahl, Associate Professor of Sociology. It’s curriculum is developed and overseen by the Latin American and Latino Studies Steering Committee, comprised of faculty members from across a variety of departments within the Undergraduate College of Arts and Sciences.