AAHHE-ETS Outstanding Dissertation Competition Webinar

"I Wish They Knew We Existed": The Academic Experiences of Latinx College Students in Mixed-Status Families
Thursday, April 11, 2024, 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM ET
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Dissertation Description

This study aims to explore the academic experiences of Latinx college students in mixed-status families to find ways institutions can better support them on their higher education pathways. Thirty-one qualitative interviews oriented by Habermas’ Theory of Communicative Action were utilized to center the voices of sixteen Latinx/a/o college students in mixed-status families. Findings suggest that students in mixed-status families experience multigenerational punishment when it comes to their academics.

Amy Nuñez, PhD
Assistant Professor
Teacher Preparation Program
Heritage University 

Dr. Amy Nuñez (She/Her/Hers/Ella) is an Assistant Professor in the Teacher Preparation Program at Heritage University. She received her bachelor's in Elementary Education at Eastern Washington University where she was also a Ronald E. McNair Scholar. Her graduate studies led her to Indiana University, Bloomington where she received her Ph.D. in Education Policy.

Nuñez’ research utilizes qualitative methods with Critical Race Theory (CRT) and Latino Critical Theory (LatCrit) to address barriers historically underrepresented students face in K-12 and higher education institutions, especially students who come from Latinx, low-income, first-generation, DACA, and/or undocumented backgrounds. Her dissertation titled, "I Wish They Knew We Existed": The Academic Experiences of Latinx College Students in Mixed-Status Families, identifies equitable strategies to better support students in mixed-status families achieve their educational goals.

As a first-generation college student, Latina, and daughter of immigrants, Nuñez is happy to be back in her hometown learning and growing from students at Heritage. She is especially excited to support students on their journey to becoming teachers.