Professor Victoria Rodríguez Appointed UT Vice Provost

As UT Austin's newest Vice Provost for Institutional Initiatives, LBJ School Professor Victoria Rodríguez aims to "polish" what UT Austin President Larry Faulkner has called one of the University's "crown jewels" ­ its internationally recognized Latin American studies programs. She will officially assume her new position in January 2001.

Rodríguez may be moving to the Tower, but she says that she will continue maintain a strong connection with the School. "I refuse to give up my research on women and politics in Latin America," said Rodríguez, who will continue to teach at least one course per semester at the LBJ School.

With regional interests in Mexico, Rodríguez joined the faculties of the LBJ School and the Institute of Latin American Studies (ILAS) in 1991. Her areas of interest span Mexican and U.S. politics and public administration, decentralization of state and local government in Mexico’ opposition governments, and women in contemporary politics.

There is no question that President Larry Faulkner's emphasis on the University's relationship with Latin America was key in moving Rodríguez toward her new post. She was captivated when in Faulkner's first Address on the State of the University in October 1998 he outlined Latin American studies as one of his administration's four main priorities. Shortly after the address, Rodríguez joined a campus-wide advisory committee and soon became a leading voice of the Latin American initiative. "I never have seen myself as an administrator, but I care so deeply about the (University's) relationship with Latin America," she said.

Rodríguez's goals include expanding research, faculty, and student exchange programs with Latin American institutions -- not only within ILAS but in other departments as well. She believes that these exchanges will enrich UT's academic programs, benefit Latin American academic institutions, and strengthen the bond between the University and Latin American countries.

In addition to leading the University's Latin America initiative, Rodríguez will direct the cross-campus development of new and already existing programs, including faculty recruitment and K-12 outreach.

While she regrets that her role at the LBJ School will be somewhat limited by her new responsibilities, Rodríguez believes that having an LBJ School insider in the University's central administration will be advantageous to the School. And whether in the classroom or in the Tower, Rodríguez will continue play a vital role in promoting policy studies on Latin America at the LBJ School.

December 5, 2000

News and Events • Fall 2000 News Briefs

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December 5, 2000

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