Sandra Ruiz

Dr. Sandra Ruiz leads initiatives in the exploration of Performance Studies, Puerto Rican Studies, and Gender, Sexuality, and Queer Studies as an Assistant Professor at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. With a Ph.D. in Performance Studies from New York University, Dr. Ruiz brings a rich academic background to her interdisciplinary research and teaching. Her work is deeply embedded in the fields of Latin American and Caribbean Studies, Queer Studies, and Latinx Studies, where she examines the intersections of identity, culture, and performance. As an affiliated member of the English, Gender and Women's Studies, Asian American Studies, and the Program in Comparative and World Literature, Dr. Ruiz contributes to a diverse academic community, fostering cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration. Dr. Ruiz's scholarly contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the HRI Fellow and Helen Corley Petit Scholar. Her publications delve into themes of anticolonial performance and history, offering critical insights into the cultural narratives and political contexts of marginalized communities. In addition to her research, Dr. Ruiz is dedicated to mentoring students and guiding them through the complexities of gender and sexuality studies. Her commitment to education extends beyond the classroom, as she actively participates in initiatives that promote inclusivity and diversity within the academic sphere. Through her work, Dr. Ruiz continues to challenge conventional narratives and push the boundaries of traditional scholarship, making significant contributions to the understanding of performance and identity in contemporary society. Her passion for her field and dedication to her students make her a valued member of the academic community at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.