Charles R. Martinez, Jr

Professor with a strong background in educational leadership and research, Charles R. Martinez, Jr. serves as the Dean of the College of Education and holds the prestigious Lee Hage Jamail Regents Chair in Education at the University of Texas at Austin. His academic journey is marked by a profound commitment to addressing the educational and behavioral health disparities faced by culturally specific and vulnerable populations, with a particular focus on immigrant Latino families. Martinez's research delves into the social and cultural factors that influence the success of children and families from underserved communities. His work is instrumental in promoting educational equity and understanding the unique challenges faced by Latino families in the United States. Through his research, he aims to bridge gaps and foster environments where all children can thrive, regardless of their background. Before his tenure at UT Austin, Martinez was a distinguished professor at the University of Oregon, where he also held various leadership roles. His dedication to equity and diversity is evident through his involvement in numerous elected positions that champion these causes. His leadership style is characterized by a collaborative approach, working closely with colleagues to advance the college's mission. Under his deanship, the College of Education at UT Austin continues to be recognized as one of the top public graduate schools of education in the nation. Since becoming the 12th dean in 2019, Martinez has led a team of unit leaders and administrative units, ensuring that the college maintains its legacy of academic excellence while adapting to the evolving educational landscape. Martinez's contributions extend beyond academia, as he actively engages with communities to implement research findings in practical settings. His work not only enhances the academic environment at UT Austin but also impacts broader societal change, making a difference in the lives of many. His vision for the future of education is one that embraces diversity, promotes inclusivity, and strives for equity for all students.