Dr. Cruz, a professor of social science education in the Department of Teaching and Learning, traveled to Alicante, Spain in January to teach and conduct research at the Universidad de Alicante. Her research project, “The Art of Teaching: Innovations in Social Studies Teacher Preparation,” will include teaching at the university, presenting workshops for practicing teachers, developing a social studies-art curriculum and investigating teachers’ use of contemporary art in their teaching.

Born in Cuba but having spent most of her life in the U.S., Dr. Cruz has served as a faculty member at USF since 1991, teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, conducting research on global and multicultural issues and providing professional service to a number of educational organizations and initiatives. As an English language learner herself, she is particularly interested in this student population and works to increase access to quality education for all students. She has published and presented extensively throughout her career, focusing her scholarship on diversity and equity issues.

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